Ramsay Sedation Scale
Describes the sedation level of adult patients across six levels.
When to use
Monitoring sedation level in adults receiving mechanical ventilation or continuous sedation.
Pearls and pitfalls
- Level 2 is the cooperative and oriented patient; higher levels indicate deeper sedation.
- The scale does not assess delirium or pain; use dedicated instruments for those domains.
- The sedation target should be set individually and reassessed frequently.
Fill in the fields to see the result.
Formula
Choose the level matching the response to stimulation, from 1 to 6.
Evidence
Six level scale described in the original alphaxalone and alphadolone sedation study, still used to describe sedation depth.
References
- Ramsay MA, Savege TM, Simpson BR, Goodwin R. Controlled sedation with alphaxalone-alphadolone. Br Med J. 1974;2(5920):656-659. doi:10.1136/bmj.2.5920.656
Frequently asked questions
What is Ramsay Sedation Scale?
Describes the sedation level of adult patients across six levels. Monitoring sedation level in adults receiving mechanical ventilation or continuous sedation.
How is the result calculated?
Choose the level matching the response to stimulation, from 1 to 6.
How should the result be interpreted?
Six level scale described in the original alphaxalone and alphadolone sedation study, still used to describe sedation depth.
What are the sources?
Ramsay MA, Savege TM, Simpson BR, Goodwin R. Controlled sedation with alphaxalone-alphadolone. Br Med J. 1974;2(5920):656-659.