How to Use NEWS Score to Observe a Deteriorating Patient Effectively

Patient deterioration can occur rapidly, making it crucial for healthcare professionals to have effective tools for early detection and intervention. The National Early Warning Score (NEWS) is one such tool designed to help healthcare providers identify patients at risk of clinical deterioration. In this blog, we will explore how to use the NEWS Score correctly to observe a deteriorating patient and take timely actions.

Understanding the NEWS Score

The NEWS Score is a systematic assessment tool that assigns numerical values to various physiological parameters, such as respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, systolic blood pressure, heart rate, level of consciousness, and temperature. These values are then summed to calculate the total NEWS Score. The higher the score, the greater the risk of clinical deterioration.

Using the NEWS Score Correctly:

1. Regular Monitoring:

Start by understanding the baseline NEWS Score for each patient. This baseline is established during the initial assessment when the patient is admitted.
Continuously monitor the patient’s vital signs and clinical status at regular intervals, as specified by hospital protocols. This often includes assessments every four to six hours or more frequently for high-risk patients.

2. Calculate the NEWS Score:

Measure and record the following physiological parameters:
Respiratory Rate: Count breaths per minute.
Oxygen Saturation: Measure the percentage of oxygen saturation in the blood.
Systolic Blood Pressure: Record the patient’s blood pressure.
Heart Rate: Measure the heart rate in beats per minute.
Level of Consciousness: Use a standardized assessment tool, such as the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), to evaluate consciousness.

Temperature: Record the patient’s body temperature.

3. Assign Scores:

Use the predefined scoring system for each parameter. Assign the appropriate score based on the patient’s measurement.
Sum the scores from each parameter to calculate the total NEWS Score.

4. Interpret the Score:

A low NEWS Score (0-4) indicates that the patient’s condition is stable.
A moderate NEWS Score (5-6) suggests that the patient may be at risk and requires close monitoring.
A high NEWS Score (7 or higher) indicates a significant risk of deterioration, and immediate action is needed.

5. Take Action:

Based on the NEWS Score, healthcare providers should follow established protocols for escalating care.
Higher NEWS Scores may necessitate immediate medical intervention, including informing a rapid response team or the patient’s healthcare provider.

6. Document and Communicate:

Accurate and timely documentation of the NEWS Score is essential for tracking a patient’s progress or deterioration.
Effective communication of the NEWS Score among healthcare team members ensures that everyone is aware of the patient’s condition.

All in all – The NEWS Score is a valuable tool for healthcare professionals to identify deteriorating patients promptly. By understanding, calculating, and interpreting the NEWS Score correctly, healthcare providers can take timely actions to mitigate risks and improve patient outcomes. Regular monitoring, effective communication, and adherence to hospital protocols are essential components of using the NEWS Score effectively in clinical practice.