Journal of Clinical Case Reports

Abstract

Phang Moon Leng

Statement of the Problem: Automated Early Warning Scores is a newly developed clinical decision tool that is used to streamline and improve the process of obtaining a patient’s vital signs so a clinical decision can be made at an earlier stage to prevent the patient from further deterioration. This technology provides immediate update on the score and clinical decision to be taken based on the outcome. This paper aims to study the use of an automated early warning score system on whether the technology has assisted the hospital in early detection and escalation of clinical condition and improve patient outcome. Methodology & Theoretical Orientation: The hospital developed and adopted the Modified Early Warning Scores (MEWS) Scoring System (Figure 1) and MEWS Clinical Response (Figure 2) into Philips IntelliVue Guardian Automated Early Warning Score equipment and studied whether the process has been leaned, whether the use of technology improved the usage & experience of the nurses, and whether the technology has improved patient care and outcome. It was found the steps required to obtain vital signs has been significantly reduced. The nurses are using the convenient equipment more frequently to obtain patient vital signs. The number of deaths, and length of stay has significantly decreased as clinical decisions can be made and escalated more quickly with the Automated EWS. Conclusion & Significance: the automated early warning score equipment has helped improve work efficiency by removing the need for documenting into patient’s EMR. The technology streamlines clinical decision-making and allows faster care and intervention to be carried out and improves overall patient outcome. As the use of the technology is simple and convenient, the vital signs is taken more often which translates to better care for patient.