ASA Classifications Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the ASA Physical Status Classification System?

A system for classifying the physical status of patients prior to undergoing anesthesia and surgery.

Which ASA classifications had 'E' added to them?

Class 2

Class 6 (correct)

Class 5 (correct)

Class 1

ASA 1 represents a ___________ patient.

normal healthy

ASA 4 represents a patient with a severe systemic disease that is a constant ___________ to life.

threat Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of ASA 1 patients?

They have no organic pathology and are considered healthy. Signup and view all the answers

Provide examples of conditions that could classify a patient as ASA 2.

Well-controlled diabetes, mild hypertension, mild lung disease. Signup and view all the answers

What can elevate an ASA 1 patient to ASA 2 classification?

Current smoking Signup and view all the answers

What does ASA 3 indicate about a patient's health status?

The patient has severe systemic disturbance but is not incapacitated. Signup and view all the answers

Patients classified as ASA 3 can walk up one flight of stairs but must stop because of ___________.

distress Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

ASA Physical Status Classification System

Classification system that assesses the physical health of patients prior to anesthesia.
Ranges from ASA 1 (healthy) to ASA 6 (brain-dead).

Addition of "E" to Classifications

"E" added to ASA Classes 5 & 6 signifies "emergency."
Reflects situations where immediate operation is necessary.

Overview of ASA Classifications

ASA 1: Normal healthy patients with no systemic disturbance.
ASA 2: Patients with mild systemic disease, or healthy patients with significant anxiety.
ASA 3: Patients with severe systemic disease that limits activities but is not life-threatening.
ASA 4: Patients with severe systemic disease posing a constant threat to life.
ASA 5: Moribund patients who are not expected to survive without surgery.
ASA 6: Brain-dead patients whose organs are being harvested for donation.

ASA 1 Description

Healthy individuals with no organic pathology.
Can perform physical activities without distress.
Represents a "green flag" for dental treatment; generally does not require medical consultation.

ASA 2 Description and Examples

Moderate systemic disturbance; can lead to distress during physical activity.
Serves as a "yellow flag" indicating caution in treatment.
Common conditions include well-controlled diabetes, hypertension, mild asthma, and social smoking or drinking.

Factors Elevating ASA 1 to ASA 2

Conditions such as mild respiratory issues, pregnancy, or active allergies can reclassify a normally healthy patient.
Increased anxiety toward dental procedures may also adjust classification to ASA 2.

ASA 3 Description and Examples

Patients with severe systemic conditions that have significant activity limitations but are not incapacitating.
"Yellow flag" indicating extreme caution with dental treatment.
Examples include poorly controlled diabetes, significant heart disease, or respiratory issues.

Description

Test your knowledge on the ASA Physical Status Classification System with these flashcards. Each card offers definitions and important details about the various ASA classifications from 1 to 6. Ideal for medical students and professionals looking to familiarize themselves with this essential classification system.