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JANUARY 11, 2016

Using Examples Best When Classifying ASA Physical Status

San Diego—Despite being an important part of clinical practice for more than five decades, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status classification system occasionally is criticized for its subjective nature, a trait that can lead to inconsistent assignments among health care professionals.

This problem can be ameliorated, a recent study has found, with the use of ASA-approved class-specific examples, which help anesthesia and nonanesthesia providers alike