MDCalc

Prediction of Alcohol Withdrawal Severity Scale

Predicts risk of severe alcohol withdrawal in hospitalized patients.

Use in patients ≥18 years old admitted to general floor, with or without history of alcohol abuse. Do not use in patients with active or uncontrolled seizure disorder.

Threshold criteria

Patient consumed any amount of alcohol within the last 30 days OR patient had a positive blood alcohol level upon admission

Result:

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Management

  • Subjects at risk for alcohol withdrawal should be placed on symptom-triggered therapy.

  • May be used to inform which patients may be appropriate candidates for the CIWA-Ar protocol.

Critical Actions

PAWSS Scores ≥4 suggest high risk for complicated AWS. Prophylaxis and/or treatment may be indicated.