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Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to assess if continuous trended patient data by a non-ICU monitoring system was reliable and easier for the nurse to interpret and initiate interventions earlier; such as initiating rapid response (RRT) and/or communication to a physician regarding a patient’s deteriorating condition. Hypothesis: Non-ICU patient monitoring systems depend on the critical interpretation of data presented and the initiation of subsequent early interventions needed. The hypothesis of this study was that continuous trended patient data by a non-ICU nurse driven monitoring systems would be reliable and easier for the nurse to interpret and initiate interventions earlier resulting in fewer transfers to higher levels of care and unexpected codes. Methods: The experimental design was a prospective cohort study was performed in an adult thirty-eight bed, post trauma-surgical nursing unit. The pre-intervention time period included a single set of vital signs taken every four hours was June 2009 thru May 2010. The intervention time period included continues trended vital sign monitoring implemented June 2010 till May 2011. Results: The data results included the comparison of clinical outcomes twelve months before study was implemented and the subsequent twelve months post implementation nurse driven continuous vital monitoring system. With heightened awareness and real time knowledge of patient vital signs the unit immediately saw an increase in rapid response calls many of which were for concern for vital signs and educational teaching moments to reinforce with the staff correct interpretations of trended vital signs. Fewer patients needed transfer to a higher level of care with continuous trended vital sign monitoring as RRT and physician interventions were initiated earlier rather than later avoiding patient deterioration. The study unit saw a decrease in the number of codes. In 2009 time frame the unit had 9 codes with 3 expiring. In the 2010 time frame with continuous trended vital sign monitoring the unit had 5 codes, with 2 expiring. Conclusions: Continuous vital sign monitoring in a non-ICU setting resulted in fewer patients needing transfer to higher levels of care and fewer codes and death.