Classification of asthma exacerbations

Use the job aid image for guidance, then enter the patient findings below. After all required information is provided, the final classification will be shown automatically.

Job aid reference

Clinical classification tool

Select the observed findings. The tool uses the highest severity identified among the selected findings.

Mental status Select Not agitated Agitated Confusion/drowsiness

Speech Select Able to talk in sentences Talks in phrases Talks in words, unable to complete sentences Not able to talk

Posture Select Sits normally, no preferential posture Prefers sitting to lying down Sits hunched forward

SpO2 Select SpO2 >94% SpO2 90-94% SpO2 <90% SpO2 <90%

Respiratory rate Select Increased, but may be normal Increased Increased Increased or reduced, poor work of breathing

Accessory muscles Select No use of accessory muscles No use of accessory muscles Use of accessory muscles Poor respiratory effort

Air entry Select Air entry is normal Reduced air entry Reduced air entry Silent chest

PEFR Select PEFR ≥70% PEFR ≥50% but <70% PEFR ≤50% PEFR ≤33%

Pulse rate Select Pulse rate normal for age Pulse rate increased for age Pulse rate increased for age Bradycardia, low pulse rate for age

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Live summary

Fill in all fields above, then click Classify now to show the final asthma exacerbation classification.