Glasgow-Blatchford Bleeding Score (GBS)
Predicts need for clinical intervention (transfusion, endoscopy, surgery) in acute upper GI bleeding. Score of 0 identifies low-risk patients suitable for outpatient management.
Score interpretation
→ GBS 0: Very low risk; no clinical intervention likely needed. Safe for outpatient management: early OGD within 72 hours as outpatient; no transfusion, no emergency endoscopy. Discharge with clear safety-net advice.
→ GBS 1–5: Low-moderate risk. Admit; OGD within 24 hours; IV access; group and save; nil by mouth; PPIs. Assess transfusion need based on Hb and ongoing bleeding.
→ GBS ≥6: High risk. Urgent OGD within 24 hours (within 12 hours if haemodynamically unstable); IV PPI (omeprazole/pantoprazole bolus); blood transfusion if Hb <80 g/L; GI and surgical team alert; resuscitation as needed.
Interpretation bands for the Blatchford Score. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Featured in these MRCEM clinical pathways
The Blatchford Score is covered in detail — with RCEM/NICE evidence base, indications and pitfalls — in the following exam-focused pathways on our sister siteReviseMRCEM.
MRCEM Primary / Intermediate / OSCE candidates: each pathway includes exam-style questions, RCEM/NICE citations, and FAQ summaries.
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.