Paediatric early warning scores on a children's ward: a quality improvement initiative.
Ennis, Linda
Ennis, Linda
Author
Advisors
Editors
Other Contributors
Departments
Date
2014-09-09
Date Submitted
Keywords
CHILD HEALTH
HOSPITAL
HOSPITAL
Other Subjects
Subject Mesh
Planned Date
Start Date
Collaborators
Principal Investigators
Alternative Titles
Publisher
Abstract
The aim of this quality improvement initiative was to incorporate a paediatric early warning score (PEWS) and track and trigger system in the routine care of children in an acute general children's ward at a regional hospital in the Republic of Ireland. In the absence of a nationally recommended specific PEWS strategy, a local plan was developed. The experience of structuring and implementing the PEWS and track and trigger system is presented in this article. Data from the first year of use were collected to evaluate the clinical utility and effectiveness of this system. In the busy acute children's service, the PEWS initiative was found to benefit processes of early detection, prompt referral and timely, appropriate management of children at potential risk of clinical deterioration. Nursing staff were empowered and supported to communicate concerns immediately and to seek rapid medical review, according to an agreed PEWS escalation plan. Outcomes were significantly improved.
Language
en
ISSN
2046-2336
eISSN
ISBN
DOI
10.7748/ncyp.26.7.25.e478
PMID
25200240