The ASA Classification

The ASA Classification is a physical status classification used to determine a patient’s risk with anesthesia.

ClassificationDescription
ASA 1Healthy patients
ASA 2Mild to moderate systemic disease caused by the surgical condition or by other pathological processes, and medically well controlled
ASA 3Severe disease process which limits activity but is not incapacitating
ASA 4Severe incapacitating disease process that is a constant threat to life
ASA 5Moribund patient not expected to survive 24 hours with or without an operation
ASA 6Declared brain-dead patient whose organs are being removed for donor purposes

Patient Preparation

  • Informed Anesthesia consent
  • Fasting order pre-anesthesia to reduce risk of aspiration
  • Blood request based on type of surgery
  • Post-operative care location (Day case, admission, ICU)