Westley Croup Score
Grades croup severity with five clinical findings, from 0 to 17.
When to use
Children with croup, to grade severity and guide treatment intensity.
Pearls and pitfalls
- The score uses consciousness, cyanosis, stridor, air entry and retractions.
- Cyanosis at rest and disorientation score 5 points each.
- A score of 12 to 17 suggests impending respiratory failure.
- The score does not replace airway assessment and response to treatment.
Fill in the fields to see the result.
Formula
Add consciousness (0 or 5), cyanosis (0, 4 or 5), stridor (0 to 2), air entry (0 to 2) and retractions (0 to 3).
Evidence
Clinical score derived and used to grade croup and compare treatment responses.
References
- Westley CR, Cotton EK, Brooks JG. Nebulized racemic epinephrine by IPPB for the treatment of croup. Am J Dis Child. 1978;132(5):484-487. doi:10.1001/archpedi.1978.02120300050008
Frequently asked questions
What is Westley Croup Score?
Grades croup severity with five clinical findings, from 0 to 17. Children with croup, to grade severity and guide treatment intensity.
How is the result calculated?
Add consciousness (0 or 5), cyanosis (0, 4 or 5), stridor (0 to 2), air entry (0 to 2) and retractions (0 to 3).
How should the result be interpreted?
Clinical score derived and used to grade croup and compare treatment responses.
What are the sources?
Westley CR, Cotton EK, Brooks JG. Nebulized racemic epinephrine by IPPB for the treatment of croup. Am J Dis Child. 1978;132(5):484-487.