DECAF Score calculator
Result
0/6
In-hospital mortality ~0%
How to use it
- 1
Borg dyspnoea at rest. Ask patient to rate 0–10. ≥7 = 2 pts.
- 2
Bloods and ECG. FBC for eosinophils; ABG for pH; ECG for AF.
- 3
CXR. Lobar/segmental consolidation = 1 pt.
When to use it
- AECOPD admission triage
- Score ≤1 supports early supported discharge. Score ≥3: HDU review.
- NIV prediction
- High DECAF + acidaemia: prepare NIV urgently.
- Ceiling of care
- DECAF ≥5 (34% mortality): appropriate trigger for advance care planning.
A reference for clinicians and students, not medical advice. A score supports a decision; it does not make one. Check every result against the patient in front of you and your local protocol.
At a glance
- Specialty
- Pulmonology
- Inputs
- 5
- Type
- Points score
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