Modified Obstetric Early Warning Score (MEOWS)
Modified early obstetric warning system (CEMACH 2007; validated by Singh 2012): a trigger is one red or two yellow parameters.
Score interpretation
All parameters in the normal (white) zone.
→ Continue observations at the planned frequency.
One moderately abnormal parameter: not a trigger on its own.
→ Repeat observations sooner and inform the midwife in charge if it persists.
One red or two yellow parameters: the chart has triggered.
→ Urgent medical (obstetric) review; escalate to senior obstetric and anaesthetic staff as the chart's escalation plan specifies.
Interpretation bands for the MEOWS. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Singh S, McGlennan A, England A, Simons R. A validation study of the CEMACH recommended modified early obstetric warning system (MEOWS). Anaesthesia. 2012;67(1):12-18.
- MBRRACE-UK. Saving Lives, Improving Mothers' Care. 2020.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Hydrocortisone (Oral Replacement) · Glucocorticoid Replacement
- Morphine (Oral) · Strong Opioid Analgesic — Step 3 WHO Ladder
- Oxycodone · Strong Opioid Analgesic — Step 3 WHO Ladder
- Donanemab (Anti-Amyloid Monoclonal Antibody) · Anti-Amyloid Immunotherapy (IgG1 — Targets Pyroglutamate-Modified Amyloid-β)
- Melatonin Modified-Release (Elderly Insomnia) · Melatonin Receptor Agonist — Hypnotic
- Morphine Slow-Release (Elderly Chronic Pain) · Opioid Analgesic — Modified-Release Oral
- Spinal Anaesthesia Hypotension Management · AAGBI; ASA
- Pre-Eclampsia / Eclampsia in ED · NICE NG133; RCOG Green-top 10A
- Suspected Ectopic Pregnancy · NICE NG126; RCOG Green-top 21
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) · International PCOS Guideline 2023; NICE CKS
- Pre-eclampsia Management · NICE NG133 2019
- Ectopic Pregnancy · NICE CG154 / RCOG GTG 21
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.