Cardiology

Cardiac Anaesthesia Risk Evaluation (CARE) Score

Simple anaesthesiologist-assigned risk classification for cardiac surgery based on urgency and comorbidities.

Score interpretation

CARE 1 — Very Low Risk 1

Predicted mortality: ~1%. Routine cardiac surgery risk.

→ Proceed with standard cardiac anaesthesia protocol.

CARE 2 — Low Risk 2

Predicted mortality: ~1–2%. Comorbidities controlled.

→ Standard precautions. Ensure comorbidities optimised preoperatively.

CARE 3 — Intermediate Risk 3

Predicted mortality: ~3–10%. Either uncontrolled disease or complex surgery.

→ Enhanced perioperative monitoring. Specialist input as required.

CARE 4 — High Risk 4

Predicted mortality: ~10–20%. Uncontrolled disease AND complex surgery.

→ Detailed risk-benefit discussion. ICU planned postoperatively. Consider alternatives.

CARE 5 — Very High Risk 5

Predicted mortality: > 20%. Emergent surgery in advanced disease.

→ Emergency surgery with full ICU support. Goals of care discussion with family.

Interpretation bands for the CARE Score. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

Dupuis JY et al. The cardiac anesthesia risk evaluation score: a clinically useful predictor of mortality and morbidity after cardiac surgery. Anesthesiology. 2001;94(2):194-204.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Calculators

Drugs

Pathways

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.