new NEWS protocol improves hospital care for patients

A recent study conducted by researchers from Portsmouth University, Southampton University, and Oxford University analyzed 400,000 anonymous patient records from general wards in two hospitals between 2018 and 2021. The focus was on the frequency of vital signs checks, which are crucial for identifying patient deterioration. Traditionally, vital signs such as blood pressure and temperature are monitored every few hours, but the study aimed to determine if this frequency could be adjusted based on patient risk levels. The findings revealed that patients with a low overall risk score could safely have their vital signs monitored less frequently, without increasing the risk of serious harm. This adjustment could allow nursing staff to allocate more time to higher-risk patients who require closer observation. The study's lead researcher, Professor Jim Briggs, emphasized that more frequent observations can indeed reduce risks, but the existing practice of monitoring higher-risk patients more often is now backed by objective evidence. Co-investigator Professor Peter Griffiths, a former clinical nurse, highlighted the potential for optimizing patient care and improving nursing efficiency. By identifying opportunities to reduce unnecessary monitoring for lower-risk patients, nursing resources could be redeployed effectively. This change in protocol could enhance patient safety and care quality across healthcare organizations. Overall, the study suggests that a revised approach to monitoring vital signs could lead to better outcomes for patients while maintaining safety standards, ultimately benefiting both patients and healthcare providers.