criteria for admission

Last reviewed 01/2018

Admission to hospital may be necessary due to:

  • signs of severe airway obstruction (indicated by intercostal recession or use of accessory neck and abdominal muscles)
  • cyanosis
  • dehydration
  • exhaustion
  • doubt about diagnosis
  • increasing dyspnoea
  • social circumstances

ref: N Lawrence et al, H/B Emergencies in Gen Pract 2e 1996