CUES Priority Scale Critical: Immediate action needed Immediate threat to patient safety or stability Rapid or significant deterioration Delaying action could result in serious harm Unstable: Prompt action needed New or worsening findings Change from the patient’s expected condition Requires prompt assessment or intervention Elevated: Timely action needed Findings or needs require nursing attention Patient is not rapidly deteriorating Care should be addressed after more urgent needs Stable: Planned action continues Findings are consistent with the expected clinical course No unexpected change requiring reprioritization Continue planned care and monitoring
