NSQHS 8 Recognising
Recognising and responding to deterioration
Serious adverse events such as unexpected death and cardiac arrest are often preceded by observable physiological and clinical abnormalities. Other serious events such as suicide or aggression are are also often preceded by observed or reported changes in a person's behaviours or mood that can indicate a deterioration in their mental state.
Early identification of deterioration may improve outcomes and lessen the intervention required for patients whose condition deteriorates.
A number of resources have been developed by the Commission to ensure acute deterioration is recognised promptly and appropriate actions are taken when patients are in hospital. Acute deterioration includes physiological changes, as well as changes in cognition and mental state.
National Consensus Statements - Acute Deterioration
- Physiological
Sets out the agreed practice for recognising and responding to acute physiological deterioration and applies to all patients in all acute care facilities in Australia.
- Mental health
Guidance to health service organisations to safely, collaboratively and effectively recognise and respond to deterioration in a person’s mental state.
Safe high-quality care
- Comprehensive Care
Health care planned and delivered in partnership with the patient and their support people.
- Cognitive impairment and Delirium
Supporting identification and provision of safe high-quality care for patients with cognitive impairment or at risk of developing delirium.
- Mental health
Promoting, supporting and encouraging safety and quality in the provision of health care for people with mental health issues across all healthcare settings.
- End-of-life care
Resources to help minimise the distress and grief associated with death and dying for the individual, and for their family, friends and carers.
- Recognising and Responding to Acute Deterioration in the NSQHS Standards
The Standard describes the systems and processes to respond effectively to patients when their physical, mental or cognitive condition deteriorates.
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