MEWS and qSOFA Spring 25

What percentage of arrests showed evidence of respiratory/neurological deterioration within 8 hours according to the Institute for Healthcare Improvement?

70% (45/64) of arrests.

What is the Modified Early Warning System (MEWS)?

A system used to identify patients at risk for deterioration based on routine physiological measurements.

What are the main components measured in Early Warning Systems (EWS)?

Systolic Blood Pressure (SBP), Heart Rate (HR), Respiratory Rate (RR), Temperature, and Level of Consciousness (LOC).

What did the evidence show about the relationship between MEWS and hospital outcomes?

MEWS has been shown to predict hospital mortality, ICU admissions within 72 hours, cardiac arrest, and rapid response team (RRT) calls within 72 hours.

What was the observed reduction in non-ICU arrests due to early intervention?

A 50% reduction in non-ICU arrests.

How often were abnormal signs and symptoms exhibited prior to cardiac arrest according to Franklin & Mathew's study?

66% (99/150) of patients showed abnormal signs and symptoms within 6 hours of the arrest.

What is one goal of the early warning systems used in healthcare?

Timely attendance to rescue once patients are identified as at risk.

What is qSOFA used to assess for in patients?

The risk of sepsis, particularly focusing on altered mental status, respiratory rate, and blood pressure.

How does the use of Rapid Response Teams (RRT) affect patient outcomes?

RRT implementation has led to a decrease in cardiac arrest rates, mortality rates, and length of stay (LOS) in ICUs.

What does the ‘flattening the hierarchy’ concept refer to in patient care?

Encouraging open communication and input from all team members, including patients and families, into the patient care plan.