Coma scale, best verbal response, none, in the field

This code indicates a patient's complete lack of verbal response when assessed by emergency medical services (EMS) personnel using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). It signifies the lowest possible score for the verbal component (E1) of the GCS, reflecting a severe neurological impairment. This finding is typically documented during pre-hospital care.

Use this code when EMS documentation explicitly states a GCS verbal score of "none" or "1" (E1) during their initial assessment in the field. This applies to patients presenting with altered mental status due to trauma, stroke, overdose, or other acute neurological events. Documentation must clearly indicate the assessment was performed by an EMT or ambulance crew.

• Always verify that the GCS assessment was performed and documented by pre-hospital personnel.
• Do not use this code if the GCS assessment was performed upon arrival at the emergency department.
• Sequence this code after the primary diagnosis indicating the cause of the altered mental status.