The modified Aldrete score (1995) replaced skin colour with oxygen saturation and is the standard discharge criterion for post-anaesthesia care units.
How to use the Aldrete Score Calculator
- Activity
- Respiration
- Circulation (blood pressure vs pre-anaesthetic)
- Consciousness
- Oxygen saturation
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Each answer carries the points shown in the published score. The calculator adds them up and maps the total to the published interpretation.
Scoring table
| Item | Answers and points |
|---|---|
| Activity | Moves 0 extremities = 0; Moves 2 extremities = 1; Moves 4 extremities = 2 |
| Respiration | Apnoeic = 0; Dyspnoea or limited breathing = 1; Breathes deeply and coughs freely = 2 |
| Circulation (blood pressure vs pre-anaesthetic) | ± 50% or more = 0; ± 20–49% = 1; Within ± 20% = 2 |
| Consciousness | Not responding = 0; Arousable on calling = 1; Fully awake = 2 |
| Oxygen saturation | Below 90% even with oxygen = 0; Needs oxygen to keep above 90% = 1; Above 92% on room air = 2 |
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Activity | Choose one: Moves 0 extremities, Moves 2 extremities, Moves 4 extremities |
| Respiration | Choose one: Apnoeic, Dyspnoea or limited breathing, Breathes deeply and coughs freely |
| Circulation (blood pressure vs pre-anaesthetic) | Choose one: ± 50% or more, ± 20–49%, Within ± 20% |
| Consciousness | Choose one: Not responding, Arousable on calling, Fully awake |
| Oxygen saturation | Choose one: Below 90% even with oxygen, Needs oxygen to keep above 90%, Above 92% on room air |
Health note: this calculator is for education and screening only and is not a diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your results with a qualified clinician.
Formula
Score = sum of the points for each item
Worked example
Inputs — Activity: Moves 4 extremities; Respiration: Breathes deeply and coughs freely; Circulation (blood pressure vs pre-anaesthetic): Within ± 20%; Consciousness: Arousable on calling; Oxygen saturation: Above 92% on room air.
Results — Aldrete score = 9 / 10; Discharge from recovery = Meets discharge criteria.
Key terms
- PACU
- Post-anaesthesia care unit.
Frequently asked questions
What score is needed to leave recovery?
Usually 9 or more.
Does it assess pain and nausea?
No – these are assessed separately (e.g. the PADSS for day surgery).
How often is it scored?
On arrival and at regular intervals in recovery.