What it means
A rating tool used during opioid detoxification and when starting medications such as buprenorphine. The nurse scores 11 signs and symptoms, including resting pulse, sweating, restlessness, pupil size, aches, runny nose or tearing, stomach upset, tremor, yawning, anxiety and gooseflesh. Higher totals mean more severe withdrawal: 5–12 mild, 13–24 moderate, 25–36 moderately severe, over 36 severe.
For the nurse
Score at regular times and before and after giving withdrawal medications, so the team can see the trend. The pulse is counted after the client has sat for a minute.
In a chart
"COWS score 14 at 0800; provider notified, buprenorphine given per protocol."
At a glance
| Also written | Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale |
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Related terms
opioid analgesic
A strong drug that relieves moderate to severe pain by acting on the brain and spinal cord.