Table 2 Decision algorithm for both PEWS models
PEWS value | Minimum observation interval | Decision algorithm |
|---|---|---|
0 | Every 12 hours | Continue scoring every 12 hours |
1–2 | Every 6 hours | Nursing staff ABCDE optimizes; see action card (shown in Additional file 2) |
If the score is 2, inform the nurse in charge and as a minimum, for one single score at 2, inform the nurse in charge before the physician | ||
3–5 | Every 4 hours | Nursing staff ABCDE optimizes; see action card |
If the score is 3 or above or as a minimum For one single score at 3, inform the physician. The physician is to make a plan of action | ||
6 | Every 2 hours | Nursing staff ABCDE optimizes; see action card |
Send for the physician | ||
The physician shall attend to the patient and make a plan of action. Any indication for taking blood pressure? | ||
7–8 | Every hour | Nursing staff ABCDE optimizes; see action card |
Send for the physician | ||
The physician shall attend to the patient within 30 minutes | ||
The physician confers with the specialist doctor | ||
The physician makes a plan of action. Any indication for taking blood pressure? | ||
9 or above | Every 15 minutes | Nursing staff ABCDE optimizes; see action card |
The physician shall attend to the patient within 15 minutes | ||
The physician confers with the specialist doctor | ||
The physician makes a plan of action |