Get Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (cows) 2017-2025

The Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) is a tool designed to assess the severity of opiate withdrawal symptoms. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to accurately fill out the COWS online, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the individual's condition.

Follow the steps to successfully complete the COWS online.

1. Click ‘Get Form’ button to obtain the COWS document and open it in the editor.
2. Begin by entering the patient’s name and the date at the top of the form.
3. For each assessed time point (e.g., time zero, 30 minutes after the first dose, 2 hours after the first dose), record the scores corresponding to each symptom as described.
4. Assess the resting pulse rate by measuring the patient’s heart rate after they have been sitting or lying still for one minute. Refer to the specified scoring scale to record the pulse rate.
5. Evaluate sweating over the past half hour, considering factors such as room temperature and activity level. Use the provided scale to assign a score.
6. Observe the patient for restlessness during the assessment and document their ability to sit still using the scoring guide.
7. Examine the size of the pupils and record their condition based on the assessment criteria.
8. Inquire about any bone or joint aches that may be attributed specifically to opiate withdrawal, scoring accordingly.
9. Assess for runny nose or tearing, excluding other causes such as allergies or cold symptoms, and enter the appropriate score.
10. Evaluate gastrointestinal upset over the past half hour and document the symptoms according to the provided scale.
11. Observe the patient’s hands for tremors and document the findings based on the scoring criteria.
12. Watch for yawning during the assessment and use the specified scale to record the observed frequency.
13. Assess the level of anxiety or irritability reported by the patient and assign a score based on their observable behavior.
14. Finally, evaluate the condition of the skin for gooseflesh and document your findings according to the scoring guide.
15. After entering all data, calculate the total score and interpret the severity of withdrawal: mild (5-12), moderate (13-24), moderately severe (25-36), or severe (more than 36). Be sure to include observer’s initials.

Complete your assessment by filling out the Clinical Opiate Withdrawal Scale (COWS) online today.