Table 1.
Call Dispositions and Associated Severity Zones
| Disposition | Details | Severity Zone |
|---|---|---|
| Call EMS 911 Now | Severe distress; signs of respiratory or circulatory compromise or mental status change; unable to speak or cry; cyanosis; wheezing or distress due to allergic reaction | Red |
| Go to ED Now | Red zone; <6 months old; OCS started >2 hours ago; leave immediately | Red |
| Emergent Home Treatment with Follow-Up Call | Red zone; >6 months old; OCS started <2 hours ago | Red |
| Urgent Home Treatment with Follow-Up Call | Yellow zone; >6 months old; receiving albuterol every 4 hours for >48 hours; back-to-back treatments and/or OCS may not have been attempted yet | Yellow |
| See Physician Within 1 Hour (or PCP Triage) | Signs of dehydration, fever, or severe chest pain; RN judgment–may recommend leave for ED as soon as possible or within 3-4 hours; RN may page PCP | Yellow |
| See Physician Within 4 Hours (or PCP triage) | ||
| See PCP Within 24 Hours | Yellow zone; >6 months old; not receiving frequent treatments | Yellow |
| See PCP When Office is Open (Within 3 Days) | Green zone and mild symptoms | Green |
| See PCP Within 2 Weeks | Not in an exacerbation but complaining of asthma symptoms interfering with activities or sleep | Green |
| Call PCP Now | Usually Red or Yellow zone; some reasons not related to severity; significant asthma history (intubations, intensive care); significant comorbid factors or other chronic conditions; PCP has not authorized prescription of OCS; child participating in asthma research study | Red or Yellow or Green |
EMS, emergency medical system; ED, emergency department; PCP, primary care physician; OCS, oral corticosteroids.