Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS)
Bedside deterioration score from vital signs and consciousness.
Inputs
CompleteSystolic BP (mm Hg)
Heart rate
Respiratory rate
Temperature (°C)
AVPU
Worked calculation
Your values are highlighted.
- Points
When to use
- Ward patients with routine vital signs.
Pearls and pitfalls
- 5 or higher was associated with increased death and ICU admission; local triggers vary.
Why use
Simple escalation trigger.
| Criterion | Points |
|---|---|
| Systolic BP (mm Hg): 70 or lower | +3 |
| 71–80 | +2 |
| 81–100 | +1 |
| 101–199 | 0 |
| 200 or higher | +2 |
| Heart rate: Below 40 | +2 |
| 41–50 | +1 |
| 51–100 | 0 |
| 101–110 | +1 |
| 111–129 | +2 |
| 130 or higher | +3 |
| Respiratory rate: Below 9 | +2 |
| 9–14 | 0 |
| 15–20 | +1 |
| 21–29 | +2 |
| 30 or higher | +3 |
| Temperature (°C): Below 35 | +2 |
| 35–38.4 | 0 |
| 38.5 or higher | +2 |
| AVPU: Alert | 0 |
| Reacts to voice | +1 |
| Reacts to pain | +2 |
| Unresponsive | +3 |