Escalation follows the patient's orders and agency policy; the following are representative disease-specific thresholds that supplement the parent module's red flags.
🚩 Red flags — escalate
Weight gain exceeding the ordered threshold (for example ≥ 2–3 lb overnight or ≥ 5 lb in a week) — provider notification per parameters; apply the PRN diuretic order if one is in place.
New or worsening orthopnea, paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea, or dyspnea at rest, or an SpO2 below the ordered target — provider notification and possible same-day intervention.
Pink frothy sputum, severe dyspnea, or inability to lie flat — activate emergency response (911) for acute pulmonary edema.
Chest pain or other suspected acute coronary syndrome symptoms — activate emergency response (911) promptly (see Cardiovascular red flags).
Hypotension with dizziness or signs of over-diuresis, or new symptomatic bradycardia — provider notification per parameters.
