Low • Two or more self-limited or minor problems • One stable chronic illness, e.g. well controlled hypertension or non-insulin dependent DM, cataract, BPH • Acute uncomplicated illness, e.g. cystitis allergic rhinitis, simple sprain, hospitalized patient with a low morbidity/mortality risk problem receiving treatment • Acute stable illness, Hospitalized patient stable or improving with treatment
High • One or more chronic illnesses with severe exacerbation, progression, or side effects of treatment • Acute or chronic illnesses or injuries that may pose a threat to life or bodily function, e.g. multiple trauma, acute MI, pulmonary embolus, arthritis, psychiatric illness with potential threat to self or others, peritonitis, acute renal failure
High risk of morbidity from testing or treatment • Drug therapy requiring intensive monitoring for toxicity • Decisions regarding hospitalization or escalation of care • Decision not to resuscitate or to de-escalate care because of poor prognosis • Decisions regarding elective major surgery (open, percutaneous or endoscopic) in higher risk patients or procedures • Decisions regarding emergency surgery (open, percutaneous or endoscopic)