Implementing a Digital Deteriorating Patient Pathway to improve the safety and effectiveness of care of the adult deteriorating patient

Acute Med. 2024;23(1):18-23. doi: 10.52964/AMJA.0968.

Abstract

Identification, escalation and clinical review of the deteriorating patient is essential for a safe and effective hospital. We present a deteriorating patient pathway developed within our electronic patient record, including implementation of a digital escalation and senior review process, triggered from a logic algorithm and vital signs. The pathway is activated by an average 43 patients per day with median mortality of 13.3%. Our Trust has seen a significant improvement in escalation and senior review and increased use of treatment escalation plans. The pathway has facilitated a cultural shift in the Trust towards the deteriorating patient. The new pathway is transferrable to both other digital Trusts as well as maternity and paediatric practice.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Algorithms*
  • Child
  • Female
  • Hospitals*
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy