Aim To explore third year nursing students’ understanding of the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS).

Method An explorative survey using a semi-structured questionnaire was used. A convenience sample of 65 third year nursing students was selected from a university faculty of nursing in Scotland. Of 65 questionnaires distributed, 39 were returned, giving a 60 per cent response rate.

Findings Most respondents (n=24, 62 per cent) were not confident in practical use of the GCS. However, they wanted to improve their theoretical knowledge as well as their practical skills.

Conclusion A short training course is needed to make sure that students are able to use the GCS effectively while minimising errors.