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The Man-Cold or Man-Flu can be a devastating illness for half the population. New guidelines have been released to risk-stratify these patients.

An objective rating scale for the Emergency Department. Give the patient a point for each symptom listed below. Scores range 0-10.

  • Brought in by mother
  • Requests a wheelchair
  • Lays down in the lobby
  • Brings own blanket/slippers/tissues
  • Has personal trashcan with foamy sputum in the bottom as evidence of his acute illness
  • Needs assistance out of the car/to the bathroom
  • Requesting admission
  • Unable to open eyes or speak in a normal tone
  • Moaning
  • Unable to do anything for himself, example: can’t cover himself up, use urinal w/o assistance.

Score patient and follow treatment algorithm below

0-3 Mild – Give antibiotics to increase press-ganey scores

4-7 Moderate – 23 hour observation is needed

8-10 Severe – Call ICU STAT

*A score of 10 requires end-of-life consult from pastoral care.

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