A&E warning system to flag sick children deteriorating quickly
The NHS in England is launching a new early warning system called PEWS to help emergency staff identify and treat sick children who are deteriorating. This initiative follows a government pledge to eliminate 'corridor care' after the tragic death of a toddler who waited too long for treatment.
Why it matters
It addresses critical patient safety issues and systemic overcrowding in emergency departments ahead of peak winter demand.
Image source, Getty Images By Michelle Roberts Digital health editor Published 9 minutes ago A new early warning system is being introduced in hospital emergency departments in England to help busy NHS staff identify sick children who are dangerously deteriorating.
It comes after Health Secretary Yvette Cooper promised to stop "corridor care" for sick children because of long waits for hospital beds.
The new National Paediatric Early Warning System (PEWS) asks staff to check, log and grade vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen levels.
A high overall score means a child needs more urgent attention. Concerns from staff, parents, carers or the child themselves will trigger an immediate escalation of care.
Image caption, Two-year-old Finlay Roberts died after spending hours in a crowded hospital corridor
The initiative is designed to save lives ahead of winter, when pressure on the NHS is at its highest.
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