neonatology
Silverman-Anderson Retraction Score
Assesses respiratory distress severity in neonates using five clinical signs of chest retraction. Score 0 = no distress; 10 = maximal distress.
Score interpretation
No or minimal respiratory distress
→ Observation; continue current support; monitor SpO2 and respiratory rate
Moderate respiratory distress
→ Supplemental oxygen; consider CPAP; nursing support; reassess every 30 min
Severe respiratory distress
→ CPAP or intubation urgently; surfactant if RDS likely; NICU admission; senior neonatologist review
Interpretation bands for the Silverman-Anderson. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
Drugs
- Poractant Alfa (Porcine Surfactant) · Lung Surfactant (Respiratory Distress Syndrome — Neonatal)
- Doxapram hydrochloride · Respiratory stimulant
- Cefuroxime · Second-Generation Cephalosporin — Respiratory / Surgical Prophylaxis
- Clarithromycin · Macrolide Antibiotic — Respiratory / H. pylori / MAC
- Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine · RSV pre-fusion F protein vaccine
- Rozanolixizumab · Neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) antagonist
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.