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. 2018 Dec 31;13(3):20–26.

Table 6. Level of severity of acute exacerbation of asthma.

Severity Clinical features Clinical parameters
Mild to moderate

  • Speaks in phrases

  • Sits up

  • Not agitated

  • Respiratory Rate (RR): 20 – 30/min

  • Pulse rate (PR): 100 – 120/min

  • O2 saturation: 90 – 95%

  • PEF: >50% predicted or best
Severe

  • Speaks in words

  • Sits forward

  • Agitated

  • Accessory muscles used

  • RR: >30/min

  • PR: >120/min

  • O2: Saturation <90%

  • PEF: <50% predicted or best
Life-threatening Severe asthma with ANY OF THE FOLLOWING:

  • Drowsy

  • Confused

  • Exhaustion

  • Cyanosis

  • Hypotension

  • Silent chest

  • Poor respiratory effort

  • PEF: <33%

  • PaO2: <60 mmHg

  • Normal (30 – 45 mmHg) or raised PaCO2