NEWS2 Score Calculator (National Early Warning Score)

How it works

Sum of 0–3 points for respiratory rate, SpO₂ (scale 1 or 2), supplemental O₂ (2), systolic BP, pulse, consciousness (3 if not alert) and temperature. 0–4 low, 5–6 medium (or any 3), ≥ 7 high

NEWS2, published by the Royal College of Physicians in 2017 and mandated across the NHS, converts a set of routine observations into a single number that dictates how urgently a deteriorating patient must be reviewed. Each physiological parameter earns 0 to 3 points by how far it strays from normal, supplemental oxygen adds two, and new confusion now scores three alongside voice, pain and unresponsive. Scale 2 for oxygen saturation exists for patients with known hypercapnic respiratory failure, whose target is 88–92%; it must be prescribed by a clinician, not chosen ad hoc. Aggregate scores of 5 or more, or a 3 in any single parameter, trigger urgent review and — in the presence of suspected infection — a sepsis screen.

Worked example

RR 22 (2), SpO₂ 94% on air scale 1 (1), SBP 105 (1), pulse 104 (1), alert (0), temperature 38.3 (1): NEWS2 = 6 — medium risk, urgent review within 30 minutes and a sepsis screen.

Frequently asked questions