Trauma triage
Revised Trauma Score (RTS)
The RTS combines neurologic status, blood pressure, and respiratory rate to assess trauma severity. Enter patient values to calculate the weighted score.
RTS category: 4 • Weighted points: 3.75
RTS category: 4 • Weighted points: 2.93
RTS category: 4 • Weighted points: 1.16
Component categories
- GCS4
- SBP4
- Respiratory rate4
Total RTS
7.84
Range 0–7.84
RTS ≥6 is associated with better survival, but continue trauma evaluation and imaging.
Use RTS with anatomic scores (ISS) and triage criteria to guide transport decisions and trauma team activation.
How to Use This Calculator
Gather initial vital signs
Record the first GCS, systolic BP, and respiratory rate obtained after stabilization in the field or ED.
Enter values into the calculator
The tool converts each into categorical weights and applies RTS coefficients to produce the weighted score.
Combine with other triage criteria
Use RTS alongside mechanisms of injury, anatomic findings, and age factors to determine trauma center need.
Formula
RTS = 0.9368 × GCS category + 0.7326 × SBP category + 0.2908 × RR category.
- GCS categories: 13–15=4, 9–12=3, 6–8=2, 4–5=1, 3=0.
- SBP categories: >89=4, 76–89=3, 50–75=2, 1–49=1, 0=0.
- Respiratory rate categories: 10–29=4, >29=3, 6–9=2, 1–5=1, 0=0.
Maximum RTS is 7.8408.
Full Description
The Revised Trauma Score (Champion et al., 1989) is a physiologic triage tool combining neurologic status (GCS), perfusion (SBP), and ventilation (RR). It correlates with survival and guides prehospital and emergency department triage, especially when integrated into the TRISS methodology for outcome prediction.
RTS excels in blunt trauma but may be less predictive in penetrating trauma or pediatric populations. It should complement, not replace, clinical judgement. Incorporate serial measurements to monitor response to resuscitation and detect deterioration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ETCO₂ instead of respiratory rate?
No. RTS specifically requires respiratory rate. Use actual measured breathing frequency or document inability to obtain.
What if the patient is intubated and paralyzed?
Use the patient’s condition before intubation when available. If not, use clinical judgement and document assumptions.
Does RTS apply to children?
Pediatric trauma uses age-adjusted norms (e.g., Pediatric Trauma Score). RTS performance is reduced in young children.
How does RTS relate to TRISS?
TRISS combines RTS, ISS, age, and injury mechanism to predict survival probability. RTS provides the physiologic component.