New A&E warning system to launch in NHS hospitals across England

New A&E warning system to launch in NHS hospitals across England NHS England said this is the first time the National Paediatric Early Warning System (Pews) will be used in A&E - Bookmark - CommentsGo to comments Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Already a member? Log in An “early warning system” designed to spot deteriorating health in children faster will be introduced in A&E departments across England, NHS leaders have announced. The tool, known as the National Paediatric Early Warning System (Pews), has until now been used only for inpatients. NHS England said the move marks the first time the system will be applied in A&E. The mass roll-out, which begins in emergency departments this winter, will make Pews the largest standardised scoring system in the world, according to NHS England. Using the system, doctors and nurses can measure, record and assess vital signs including blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, oxygen levels and consciousness. A high score helps flag when a child is deteriorating and needs more urgent attention. NHS England added that Pews is not designed to replace professional judgment or the input of parents, carers and children into a child’s condition. Concerns that are raised can still trigger an immediate escalation of care, even if a child’s Pews score is low. Duncan Burton, chief nursing officer for England, said: “In fast-paced emergency departments, staff need to spot quickly when a child’s condition is deteriorating. “This standardised approach will help them recognise the warning signs, communicate concerns, and make timely decisions when every moment matters. “Just as importantly, it makes sure the concerns of children, parents and carers are heard and can prompt action.” The new Pews includes age-appropriate charts to reflect what may be abnormal signs of deterioration in babies, children and young people. The scheme has also been designed specifically for A&E to help with rapid decision-making in busy environments. More than six million children attend A&Es in England each year. A similar process for adults, the National Early Warning System, is already used by NHS hospitals. Separately, NHS England is drawing up urgent new standards for how children should be treated in A&E, including eliminating corridor care for youngsters as a priority. Dr Mike McKean, vice-president for policy at the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH), which worked on the new Pews system, said: “I am delighted to see this initiative being rolled out ahead of the winter period, which is always a busy and challenging time for hospitals and healthcare professionals. “The launch of the emergency department Pews charts are extremely important tools that will support all paediatricians and wider child health teams to spot deterioration in children in hospital. “Alongside training and resources, it will help teams across England improve equity, patient safety and quality of care.” Professor Lynn Woolsey, from the Royal College of Nursing, which was also involved in the work, said: “Early escalation is critical for keeping patients safe, particularly children. “Already saving lives in other parts of the NHS, this system is a vital tool for nursing staff to quickly identify when a child patient is deteriorating, and act. “The emphasis on listening to children, young people, parents and carers is especially important and having a standardised approach across emergency departments and paediatric wards will help support consistent assessment, communication and decision-making. “It will be crucial to ensure there are enough nursing staff, with enough capacity, and the necessary training and support, to spot deterioration and use the system effectively.” More than 90 hospitals across England use the national inpatient Pews system. NHS England said data suggests those hospitals are seeing consistently lower rates of cardiac arrests among their patients. Join our commenting forum Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Comments [Image text:] EMERGENCY 6885 LJ53BVE cy Ambulance London Ambulance Servi NHST LJOSFH