Pediatric Asthma Symptom Severity Score
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Respiratory effort Full sentences (if infant Resp Rate<50) Short phrases (if infant Resp Rate 50-60) Maximum ability single words (if infant Resp Rate>60)
Accessory muscle use No retractions (if infant Resp Rate <30) Inter/subcostal retractions Inter/subcostal retractions, superclavicular retractions, nasal flaring
Auscultation Clear/min expiratory wheeze Inspiratory & Expiratory Wheeze Diminished or absent breath sounds
Oxygen saturation >95% 91-95% <91%
Sensorium Normal Slightly decreased or agitated Markedly depressed or non-responsive
Peak Flow Meter (% of predicted value or if available % of personal best preferred) >80% 50-80% <50% Unable to perform
Select patient age <1year of age 1-4 years of age > 4 years of age -
Resting Respiratory rate(/min)
R e s u l t s
PASS Score
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Pediatric Asthma Symptom Severity Score

The PASS score is used to assess the severity of pediatric acute asthma exacerbation and determine appropriate intensity of care.

During the course of care, the following are felt significant:

  • An increase in PASS Score of 2 points requires immediate notification of the treating physician
  • A score of 6 or PaCO 2 >42 mmHg is consistent with impending respiratory failure and likely need for ICU care
  • A score of 7 or PaCO 2 >65 mmHg indicates respiratory failure and need for ICU care

Reference:

Gorelick MH, Stevens MW, Schultz TR, Scribano PV. Performance of a novel clinical score, the Pediatric Asthma Severity Score (PASS), in the evaluation of acute asthma. Acad Emerg Med. 2004;11(1):10-8.