👶 Downes Score (Neonatal Respiratory Distress)
Assess neonatal respiratory distress severity with the Downes score.
Downes Score (Neonatal Respiratory Distress)
Respiratory rate
Cyanosis
Air entry
Grunting
Retractions
When to use
Decide on escalation of neonatal respiratory support.
How it works
Respiratory rate, cyanosis, air entry, grunting and retractions — each 0–2. ≤ 3 mild, 4–6 moderate, ≥ 7 failure.
Key points
- ≥ 7 suggests respiratory failure.
- Applicable to term/late-preterm infants.
- Use with blood gas where available.
References
Decision support for licensed clinicians only; not a substitute for clinical judgement, diagnosis or local protocols.