A Clinical Scoring System for the Diagnosis of Respiratory Failure

Abstract

A clinical scoring system has been developed to detect impending or existing respiratory failure in childhood status asthmaticus. The score is based on a numerical evaluation of oxygenation, gas exchange, work of breathing, airway obstruction, and cerebral function. A highly significant correlation exists between the score and arterial carbon dioxide tension (Pco 2 ). The score and arterial oxygen tension (Po 2 ) during air breathing also appear to be significantly related.