What factors influence ward nurses’ recognition of and response to patient deterioration? An integrative review of the literature (26 April 2016)

Summary

This study looked at the factors influencing nurses' recognition and response to patient deterioration. Seventeen studies were reviewed and appraised.

Recognising patient deterioration was encapsulated in four themes: (1) assessing the patient; (2) knowing the patient; (3) education and (4) environmental factors. Responding to patient deterioration was encapsulated in three themes; (1) non-technical skills; (2) access to support and (3) negative emotional responses.

The study concluded that issues involved in timely recognition of and response to clinical deterioration remain complex, yet patient safety relies on nurses’ timely assessments and actions.