AVPU Scale

The Alert, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive (AVPU) Scale scores are based on the patient’s brain function based on patient response to stimuli. An Alert score (A) indicates full consciousness, while an Unresponsive score (U) suggests decreased mental status and possible severe brain dysfunction.

The four indicators are Alert, Voice, Pain, and Unresponsive. A patient may be alert, responds to either verbal or painful stimuli, or may not respond at all (unresponsive).

While the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) provides a more detailed assessment, the AVPU is quicker and easier to apply in emergency settings. The Alert, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive (AVPU) Scale may be preferred for initial assessments, while GCS is often used for more comprehensive evaluations.