NEWS2 Score Calculator

NEWS2, the National Early Warning Score 2, is a standardized tool from the Royal College of Physicians (2017) for spotting acute deterioration in adults. It scores seven bedside measurements (respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, supplemental oxygen use, temperature, systolic blood pressure, pulse, and consciousness) and sums them into one number from 0 to 20. A higher total points to a greater risk of deterioration and a more urgent clinical response.

Each parameter is given 0, 1, 2, or 3 points based on fixed bands, and using any supplemental oxygen adds a flat 2 points. For example, a respiratory rate of 12 to 20 scores 0 while 25 or above scores 3, and a pulse of 51 to 90 scores 0 while 131 or above scores 3. You add the seven component scores to get an aggregate from 0 to 20. This calculator applies the published bands and shows each component so you can see how the total is built.

Scale 1 is the default and suits most patients, scoring 0 points when oxygen saturation is 96 percent or above. Scale 2 is for people who retain carbon dioxide (for example some patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and have a clinician-set target range of 88 to 92 percent. On Scale 2, saturations of 93 percent and above only add points when the patient is breathing supplemental oxygen. Use Scale 2 only when a clinician has documented that it applies.

An aggregate of 0 calls for routine monitoring at least every 12 hours. A total of 1 to 4 is low risk, with monitoring every 4 to 6 hours and assessment by a registered nurse. A total of 5 to 6, or any single parameter scoring 3, raises the urgency to at least hourly monitoring and a prompt clinical review. A total of 7 or more is high risk and triggers an emergency response with continuous monitoring.

A red score is any single parameter that reaches the maximum of 3, such as a respiratory rate of 25 or above, or new confusion. Even when the aggregate total is otherwise low, a red score warrants urgent review by a ward-based clinician and at least hourly monitoring. This calculator flags a red score whenever one parameter scores 3.

No. This calculator is for education and quick reference only, and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. NEWS2 supports the recognition of deterioration but does not diagnose any condition, and it is not validated for children or for pregnant patients. Always follow your local escalation protocol and let a qualified clinician make assessment and treatment decisions.