Study: Clinicians support patients, families reporting early patient deterioration

Nurses and physicians support patients and their loved ones reporting early patient deterioration, according to an Australian study. Published in the April issue of The Joint Commission Journal of Quality and Patient Safety, the study explored clinicians’ views on reporting by patients, family members or visitors of early patient deterioration through an established hospital consumer-initiated escalation-of-care system. The 244 clinicians (198 nurses and 46 physicians) said management support and education for patients and family members on the protocol are necessary for the escalation process to be effective. They suggested updating clinicians each year on consumer participation in escalation of care through education, simulation scenarios and videos. In addition, they said clinicians should use education materials to boost consumer knowledge and confidence. (The Joint Commission news release, 3/28/24)