Modified Obstetric Early Warning Score (MEOWS)
Identifies deteriorating obstetric patients. Uses obstetric-specific physiological ranges.
Score interpretation
MEOWS Normal: No trigger. Routine monitoring.
→ Continue routine monitoring as per postnatal schedule.
MEOWS Yellow Trigger (score 2–3 or 1 yellow parameter): Increased monitoring required.
→ Inform midwife in charge. Repeat observations in 30 minutes. Review by obstetrician within 1 hour.
MEOWS Red Trigger (score ≥4 or any single red parameter): Urgent escalation required.
→ CALL obstetrician IMMEDIATELY. Consider SBAR handover. Ensure IV access. ABG. Consider HDU/ICU transfer.
Interpretation bands for the MEOWS. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Singh S et al. A validation study of the CEMACH recommended modified early obstetric warning system (MEOWS). Anaesthesia. 2012.
- 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.