Recognising and responding to clinical deterioration is crucial for patient safety. The STOP and WATCH method is an effective early warning tool for identifying subtle patient condition changes.
STOP and WATCH stands for:
S – Seems different from usual
T – Talks or communicates less
O – Overall needs more help
P – Pain: new or worsening
A – Ate less
N – No bowel movement for three days
D – Drank less
W – Weight change
A – Agitated or nervous more than usual
T – Tired, weak, confused or drowsy
C – Change in skin colour or condition
H – Help with walking, transferring and toileting more than usual
When care staff notice any of these changes, they should immediately notify a nurse for further assessment. The nurse or senior person should then evaluate the patient’s condition, document findings, and escalate care if necessary. This may involve contacting a physician, implementing interventions, or transferring the patient to a higher level of care if required
Consistent use of the STOP and WATCH tool, clear communication, and prompt response can help detect deterioration early and prevent adverse outcomes. If you would like to be taken to the Stop & Watch package of tools, please click www.effectivepolicy.com.au/stopandwatch. The package contains:
- A policy and procedure
- A PowerPoint presentation to onboard your staff
- Three different versions of the Stop & Watch tool (1 is digital and ready for deployment)
- Posters for education.
If you would like to access the free recording of the recorded webinar on Recognising & Reporting Clinical Deterioration, please click here: www.effectivepolicy.com.au/chat Access a FREE webinar about Recognising and Responding to Deterioration in NDIS and Aged Care services: https://youtu.be/D6iK01c_mJI?si=XA7GFhn3xD2PU7aM
