Aldrete Score Calculator
Assess patient readiness for discharge from post-anesthesia care unit (PACU)
Post-Anesthesia Assessment
1. Consciousness Level
2. Mobility
3. Breathing
4. Circulation (Blood Pressure)
5. Skin Color
Aldrete Score Results
Clinical Interpretation:
Score Interpretation
Recovery Phases
Phase 1 (Early Recovery)
Patient awakens, recovers airway reflexes, resumes motor activity
Aldrete Score recommended
Phase 2 (Late Recovery)
Increased mobility, oral intake, pain management, education
Ambulatory/day surgery
Assessment Tips
Assess consciousness with logical questions
Test limb movement on command
Observe respiratory effort and muscle use
Compare BP to pre-operative values
Check for cyanosis or color changes
Understanding the Aldrete Score
What is the Aldrete Score?
The Aldrete Score is a standardized assessment tool used in post-anesthesia care units (PACU) to evaluate patient recovery from anesthesia. It assesses five key parameters, each scored from 0-2 points, for a maximum total of 10 points.
Clinical Application
Healthcare providers use this score to determine when patients have recovered sufficiently to be safely discharged from the PACU. It helps standardize discharge decisions and ensures patient safety during the critical post-anesthesia period.
Assessment Parameters
Consciousness
Ability to respond to verbal stimuli and follow commands
Mobility
Voluntary movement of extremities on command
Breathing
Respiratory effort and adequacy of ventilation
Circulation
Blood pressure stability compared to baseline
Skin Color
Adequacy of oxygenation and perfusion
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. The Aldrete Score should only be used by qualified healthcare professionals in appropriate clinical settings. It does not replace clinical judgment, comprehensive patient assessment, or institutional discharge protocols. Always follow your facility's policies and consult with supervising physicians when making discharge decisions. This tool should never be used by patients or non-medical personnel for self-assessment.
PACU Discharge Guidelines
✅ Safe for Discharge (Score 9-10)
- • Patient fully awake and oriented
- • Adequate respiratory function
- • Stable vital signs
- • Good motor function
- • Normal skin color
⚠️ Monitor Closely (Score 6-8)
- • Continue PACU monitoring
- • Reassess in 15-30 minutes
- • Address specific deficits
- • Consider interventions
- • Document improvements
🚨 Intensive Monitoring (Score ≤5)
- • Immediate physician notification
- • Continuous monitoring required
- • Consider complications
- • Assess need for interventions
- • May require ICU transfer