Psychiatric disorders and low Glasgow Coma Scale score - a case series

A low score on the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) Anesthesiologists and intensivists are frequently asked to ensure airway protection in such patients. Endotracheal intubation is necessary if the GCS is very low. However, it is important to confirm that consciousness is really impaired and the airway is unprotected because endotracheal intubation is demanding and not without risks. In a recent experience with two cases of low GCS, the plan for endotracheal intubation was unnecessary, as the patients were actually capable of protecting their airway.