Which finding would prompt intubation in a patient with head injury?

• A. GCS 6
• B. GCS 12
• C. GCS 15
• D. GCS 10

Answer: (A)

In head injury, protecting the airway is the top priority because a patient who cannot protect their own airway is at high risk for aspiration and hypoxia, which can worsen brain injury. A GCS reflecting severe impairment across eye opening, verbal response, and motor response means the person is unlikely to maintain a clear airway or respond to threats to breathing. A score of six indicates the patient is not able to protect the airway and needs a secured airway route, so intubation is indicated to ensure adequate oxygenation and ventilation and to control ventilation as needed.

The other scores show better airway protection and breathing: a score of twelve or fifteen means the patient can typically protect the airway and maintain breathing without immediate intubation. A score of ten is concerning but does not automatically require intubation; clinical judgment considers ongoing assessment of oxygenation, ventilation, and airway reflexes.