Perioperative care
Aldrete Recovery Score
Use the Aldrete scoring system to evaluate patient recovery after anesthesia. Each of the five domains is rated from 0 to 2, yielding a maximum score of 10. Most institutions require a score >= 9 before PACU discharge.
Activity
Select the description matching the patient's status.
Respiration
Select the description matching the patient's status.
Circulation
Select the description matching the patient's status.
Consciousness
Select the description matching the patient's status.
Oxygen saturation
Select the description matching the patient's status.
Total Aldrete score
9 / 10
Meets typical discharge criteriaAldrete >= 9 suggests the patient is ready for PACU discharge, pending clinical judgment.
How to Use This Calculator
Observe the patient after anesthesia
Assess motor activity, respiratory pattern, blood pressure compared to baseline, level of alertness, and oxygen saturation.
Score each domain objectively
Select the option that best describes the patient's status. When values fall between categories, err on the lower score and reassess.
Determine readiness for discharge
Combine the total score with institutional policies and clinical judgment before moving the patient out of PACU.
Formula
Total Aldrete Score = Activity + Respiration + Circulation + Consciousness + Oxygen saturation
Each component scores 0 (worst) to 2 (best). Maximum score = 10.
Many protocols require >= 9 for PACU discharge, but thresholds may vary by institution.
Full Description
The Aldrete score evaluates physiologic recovery after anesthesia. It is widely used in post-anesthesia care units to ensure patients regain mobility, ventilation, hemodynamic stability, and consciousness before discharge. Variants (e.g., Modified Aldrete) incorporate additional criteria such as pain or surgical bleeding.
Use serial assessments during recovery. If scores remain low, investigate potential causes such as residual anesthetics, airway obstruction, hypothermia, or hemodynamic instability. Always align with institutional discharge policies and consider multidisciplinary input when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between original and modified Aldrete?
The modified version updates oxygen saturation criteria and may adjust thresholds. This tool reflects the commonly used modified scoring.
Can I discharge with a score below 9?
Some institutions allow exceptions (e.g., baseline neurological deficits). Document rationale and ensure physician sign-off.
Should pain control be included?
Pain is often evaluated separately using a pain scale or a broader post-anesthesia discharge score (PADS).
How often should I reassess?
Monitor at admission to PACU, periodically during recovery (e.g., every 5-10 minutes), and prior to discharge.