Downes score (RDS score)
Paediatrics
Also known as: Downes-Score · Downes skoru · Downes score (neonatal respiratory distress)
What it is for
The Downes score (Downes et al. 1970) grades respiratory distress in newborns from five signs, each scored 0–2; total 0–10, higher totals meaning more severe distress.
Classification
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Respiratory rate | below 60/min 0; 60–80/min 1; above 80/min (or apnoeic episodes) 2. |
| Cyanosis | none 0; original: in room air 1, in 40 % oxygen 2; modified versions: relieved by oxygen 1, despite oxygen 2. |
| Retractions | none 0; mild 1; moderate to severe 2. |
| Grunting | none 0; audible with a stethoscope 1; audible without a stethoscope 2. |
| Air entry (inspiratory breath sounds) | clear/good 0; delayed or decreased 1; barely audible or absent 2. |
| Thresholds | cut-offs differ between users (for example 4–6 described as moderate and 8–10 as severe distress). |
Source
Respiratory distress syndrome of newborn infants. I. New clinical scoring system (RDS score) with acid–base and blood-gas correlations
Clin Pediatr (Phila) 1970;9:325–331 (Downes JJ, Vidyasagar D, Boggs TR Jr, Morrow GM 3rd)
DOI: 10.1177/000992287000900607
PMID: 5419441
- Edition
- Downes et al. 1970 (RDS score); modified versions widely used
- Checked on
Summary of the published classification in our own words. Not a substitute for the original publication.
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