NEWS2 Score Explained

Overview

What is NEWS2?

NEWS2 (National Early Warning Score 2) is a clinical scoring system used to identify and respond to patient deterioration based on physiological observations.

Components

Parameters measured

• Respiratory rate
• Oxygen saturation (SpO₂)
• Supplemental oxygen
• Systolic blood pressure
• Pulse
• Temperature
• Level of consciousness

Scoring

How scoring works

Each parameter is scored from 0–3 depending on how far it deviates from normal. The total score determines the level of clinical risk and escalation required.

Example

Worked example

A patient with abnormal respiratory rate, low oxygen saturation, and elevated heart rate may accumulate a higher NEWS2 score, indicating the need for urgent clinical review.

Reference

Tool