Clinical Assessment Tool

NEWS2 Score Calculator

The National Early Warning Score (NEWS) 2 is a standardised assessment tool for identifying acutely ill patients who require urgent clinical intervention. This calculator helps determine the appropriate level of clinical response based on physiological parameters.

NEWS2 Score Calculator

National Early Warning Score 2 for identifying acutely ill patients requiring escalation

Vital Signs

Score: 0
Score: 0
Score: 0
Score: 0
Score: 0
Score: 0
Score: 0 (CVPU = Confusion, Voice, Pain, Unresponsive)

Results

Total NEWS2 Score
0
low Risk

Clinical Response

Continue routine monitoring

Score Breakdown

Respiratory Rate 0
Oxygen Saturation 0
Supplemental Oxygen 0
Temperature 0
Systolic BP 0
Heart Rate 0
Consciousness 0
Total 0

Risk Thresholds

Low: 0-4 points
Medium: 5-6 points
High: 7+ points

Note: Any single parameter scoring 3 triggers urgent response

About NEWS2

NEWS2 was developed by the Royal College of Physicians to improve detection and response to acute illness. It uses seven physiological parameters to generate a score that correlates with clinical risk and guides escalation decisions.

The system is endorsed by NHS England and is used widely across acute care pathways in hospitals and community settings.

Clinical Response Guidelines

  • Score 0: Continue routine monitoring (minimum 12-hourly observations)
  • Score 1-4: Monitor frequency at least 12-hourly, inform registered nurse
  • Score 5-6: Urgent review by clinician with acute illness competencies
  • Score 7+: Emergency assessment and usually transfer to higher level of care
  • Any parameter = 3: Triggers urgent clinical review even if total score is low

Oxygen Scale Selection

Scale 1 (Standard): Use for most patients without chronic respiratory conditions requiring oxygen therapy.

Scale 2 (Hypercapnic): Use for patients with hypercapnic respiratory failure (typically COPD patients on long-term oxygen therapy). These patients have different oxygen saturation targets.

Important Notes

  • NEWS2 should supplement, not replace, clinical judgment
  • Local escalation protocols may vary - follow your organization's guidelines
  • Document all observations and escalation decisions
  • For COVID-19 patients: any increase in oxygen requirements should trigger escalation

Based on the Royal College of Physicians' NEWS2 system. For official guidance, visit RCP NEWS2 Resources