Sedation Agitation Scale Calculator

Sedation Agitation Scale Calculator for Neurology. Values below 4 describe reduced arousal; values above 4 describe increasing agitation. No universal target or medication dose is generated.

For shared guidance on choosing a tool and documenting results, read the clinical calculator workflow.

How this calculator works

Select the observed Riker SAS behavior category, 1-7, not an entered total. Original validation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10446827/ . Clinical distinctions were checked against the SCCM source table: https://www.sccm.org/SCCM/media/SCCM/PDFs/Agitation-Sedation-Agitation-Scale.pdf

When to use this calculator

Document adult critical-care arousal and agitation alongside the prescribed target, assessment time and relevant drugs.

Inputs used

  • Reliable behavioral assessment despite possible confounders
  • Observed arousal or agitation category, from minimal responsiveness to dangerous agitation

Clinical interpretation

Values below 4 describe reduced arousal; values above 4 describe increasing agitation. No universal target or medication dose is generated.

Worked example

A patient briefly awakens to voice, follows a simple command and then drifts off: SAS 3. A patient who awakens easily and remains cooperative fits SAS 4.

Limitations and safety notes

This is not RASS and cannot diagnose delirium. Paralysis or other examination barriers may invalidate grading. Agitation does not automatically justify restraints; SCCM discusses their uncertain benefit and safety concerns: https://www.sccm.org/clinical-resources/guidelines/guidelines/guidelines-for-the-prevention-and-management-of-pa

Frequently asked questions

Does SAS 5 automatically require a sedative?

No. Identify the cause, immediate safety needs and individual treatment target; the grade is an observation, not a prescription.

References

  • Riker et al. Adult ICU SAS validation, 1999: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10446827/
  • SCCM source table; arousal and agitation distinctions: https://www.sccm.org/SCCM/media/SCCM/PDFs/Agitation-Sedation-Agitation-Scale.pdf
  • SCCM PADIS guideline; assessment and restraint cautions, 2018: https://www.sccm.org/clinical-resources/guidelines/guidelines/guidelines-for-the-prevention-and-management-of-pa

Editorial review and citation methodology

Maintained by the Quick Medical Calculator Editorial Team. Content record date: September 9, 2026. A content date is not evidence of independent clinical review. Individual clinical sign-off is not recorded on this page.

  • Prefer original validation studies for scoring systems and prediction tools.
  • Use current specialty society guidance, transplant allocation policy, public health guidance, or regulator resources when they govern clinical use.
  • Include limitations and safety notes when a calculator is population-specific, context-dependent, or unsuitable as a standalone decision tool.

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