Systems for recognition and response to clinical deterioration in Victorian emergency departments

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The study aim was to explore the systems for recognising and responding to clinical deterioration in adult and paediatric Victorian emergency department (ED) patients after their initial triage assessment. METHODS: A survey of Victorian EDs was conducted. Senior ED nursing staff was asked about ED characteristics, vital sign documentation, systems for recognising and responding to deteriorating ED patients, quality assurance and governance of ED rapid response systems (RRSs). RESULTS: Sixteen EDs participated (17 metropolitan and 13 regional or rural) giving a response rate of 53.3% (16/30). The organisational definition of a deteriorating patient applied to the ED at 50% of site..