🛏️ Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS)
Quantify sedation and agitation with the Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS).
Richmond Agitation-Sedation Scale (RASS)
Level
When to use
Titrate sedation and screen for delirium in critically ill patients.
How it works
Scale from +4 (combative) through 0 (alert and calm) to −5 (unarousable).
Key points
- Targets are usually 0 to −2 for most ventilated patients.
- Prerequisite for CAM-ICU delirium assessment.
- Reassess regularly to avoid over-sedation.
References
Decision support for licensed clinicians only; not a substitute for clinical judgement, diagnosis or local protocols.