Aldrete Score — Post-Anesthesia Discharge

Name: Aldrete Score — Post-Anesthesia Discharge
Creator: Daniel Diaz-Gil, MD
Keywords: Aldrete, PACU, post-anesthesia, discharge, recovery, sedation, pediatric

Modified Aldrete scoring for post-anesthesia recovery unit discharge readiness. Score ≥9 indicates readiness.

The Aldrete Score is a rapid, reproducible scale for assessing post-anesthetic recovery in pediatric patients in the immediate post-operative period (0-10 minutes). This 5-component score evaluates consciousness, activity, respiration, circulation, and oxygen saturation to determine readiness for discharge from the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU). A score ≥9 is required for safe recovery room discharge in most pediatric anesthesia protocols.

Clinically Verified· 6 tests

For educational and informational purposes only. Verify all results before clinical application.

Activity / Motor Function *

Respiration *

Circulation / Blood Pressure *

Consciousness *

SpO₂ / Oxygen Saturation *

References

Aldrete JA. The post-anesthesia recovery score revisited. J Clin Anesth. 1995;7(1):89-91.[DOI]

Reviewed by Daniel Diaz-Gil, MD · Last updated March 2026

Medical disclaimer

This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional clinical judgment. Always independently verify results before making clinical decisions.

Professional Resources — Tools used by pediatricians for procedural sedation

Procedural Sedation Reference CardQuick-reference for sedation drug dosing and monitoring~$12via Amazon Aldrete Score CardPost-anesthesia recovery scoring reference~$10via Amazon