What ESI level is assigned to a 72-year-old female experiencing new onset confusion and lethargy?

In the context of the Emergency Severity Index (ESI), a 72-year-old female experiencing new onset confusion and lethargy is assigned ESI level 2. This level is designated for patients who present with conditions that are potentially life-threatening or require immediate attention due to the high likelihood of deterioration if not treated quickly.

New onset confusion and lethargy in an elderly patient raises significant concerns, such as the possibility of infections (like sepsis), stroke, or other acute medical conditions. These symptoms indicate a significant change in mental status, which necessitates prompt evaluation and intervention to prevent the patient's condition from worsening. Given the age of the patient, there is an increased urgency to address these symptoms since elderly patients can decline rapidly.

Levels 3, 4, and 5 indicate less emergent situations where patients typically have stable vital signs and do not present with high-risk symptoms that require immediate care. Therefore, assigning ESI level 2 is appropriate in this case because it reflects the need for timely medical assessment and intervention based on the presented symptoms.