Analysis of the Full Outline of UnResponsiveness Score: Neurological Assessment Tool in Critically Ill Patients
Keywords:
ENFERMEDAD CRÍTICA; ESCALA DE COMA DE GLASGOW; EVALUACIÓN EN SALUD; EXAMEN NEUROLÓGICO; UNIDADES DE CUIDADOS INTENSIVOS.; CRITICAL ILLNESS; GLASGOW COMA SCALE; HEALTH EVALUATION; NEUROLOGIC EXAMINATION; INTENSIVE CARE UNITS.; ESTADO TERMINAL; ESCALA DE COMA DE GLASGOW; AVALIAÇÃO EM SAÚDE; EXAME NEUROLÓGICO; UNIDADES DE TERAPIA INTENSIVA.Abstract
Introduction: neurological assessment in critically ill patients requires precise tools that overcome the limitations of traditional scales such as Glasgow.
Objective: to evaluate the applicability and effectiveness of the Full Outline of Unresponsiveness score in neurological monitoring of patients in intensive care.
Methods: a systematic review of the scientific literature was conducted across several databases. The search was performed using an algorithm with keywords and Boolean operators, allowing the identification of relevant sources. Selected studies, after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, were critically analyzed considering timeliness, methodological quality, and thematic relevance, and integrated into the final synthesis of the review.
Development: the Full Outline of Unresponsiveness score evaluates ocular and motor responses, brainstem reflexes, and respiration, providing a comprehensive view of neurological status. Literature highlights its superiority over Glasgow in detecting vegetative states and locked-in syndrome. Studies confirm its interobserver reliability and ease of clinical application, even by personnel with limited experience. Although some authors question its validation due to its relatively recent introduction, most support its usefulness in early prognosis and therapeutic decision-making in neurocritical patients.
Conclusions: the Full Outline of Unresponsiveness score consolidates itself as a complete and reliable tool for neurological assessment in ICUs. Its practical applicability and early detection capacity position it as a superior alternative to Glasgow, although broader multicenter validation is required for universal adoption.
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