Neonatology · Respiratory Distress Screening
Downe Score
Rapid neonatal respiratory distress screening — 5 criteria, each 0–2. Repeated at bedside for serial monitoring.
Respiratory rate
— / 2
Retractions
— / 2
Cyanosis
— / 2
Air entry
— / 2
Grunting
— / 2
Fill all 5 criteria to see the result (0/5 filled).
Interpretation (PONED standard)
≤ 3Mild distress
4–5Moderate distress
≥ 6Severe distress — consider intubation
Reference only. Interpretation thresholds follow the PONED standard. This score is a screening aid — not a substitute for direct clinical judgement. Always reassess serially.
Reference: Downes JJ, Vidyasagar D, Boggs TR Jr, Morrow GM. Respiratory distress syndrome of newborn infants. Clin Pediatr. 1970;9:325–331.