IRELAND AND UHG PIONEERING NEW EARLY WARNING SYSTEM ON PATIENT'S CONDITION WORSENING

Date Published: 18-Feb-2013

It's been revealed a new early warning system that triggers signs of worsening conditions in patients is being pioneered at UHG and other Irish hospitals.

Galway Bay fm news reports the system was in place at University Hospital Galway when Savita Halappanavar was admitted last October.

But the new system does not cover maternity services - a similar system for maternity hospitals will be unveiled in the coming weeks.

Chief Medical Officer Tony Holohan explains why the system was not designed for maternity services.

Ireland has now become the first country in the world to introduce such an early warning system on a national basis.

The system, which will apply in every hospital in the country will see patients monitored on a continuous basis, with clear guidelines on the actions to be taken if their condition deterioriates.

Minister James Reilly says the guidelines are a recognised method of improving health care.