What it means
A measure of brain function that runs from fully alert, through drowsy (lethargic) and hard to wake (stuporous), to unresponsive (comaKOH-muhA deep state of unconsciousness in which a person cannot be woken and does not respond with purpose.Full entry ). Nurses check it by talking to the client, asking orientation questions (person, place, time, situation) and, if needed, seeing how the client responds to touch or pain. Tools include AVPU and the Glasgow Coma Scale.
For the nurse
A change in level of consciousness is often the first sign that the brain is not getting enough oxygen, glucose or blood flow. Compare with the last check and report any decline right away, along with vital signs and blood glucose.
In a chart
"LOC: alert and oriented x4 at 0800; at 1000 drowsy, oriented to self only; provider notified."
At a glance
| Abbreviations | LOC (also used for loss of consciousness); GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale) |
|---|---|
| Spanish | nivel de conciencia |
| Also written | levels of consciousness |
Related terms
intracranial pressure
The pressure inside the skull, made by the brain, the blood and the fluid around the brain.
mental status
A person's state of mind at a given time: how alert they are, what they know and how they think, speak and behave.
coma
A deep state of unconsciousness in which a person cannot be woken and does not respond with purpose.
lethargy
A state of being very drowsy, slow and hard to keep awake, or having little energy.