After implementing an electronic physiological surveillance system, in-hospital mortality rates fell by an average of 17.96 percent, according to a study in BMJ Quality & Safety.
Researchers implemented an EPSS in two hospitals designed to improve the collection and clinical use of patients' vital signs data. The system replaced paper-based vital sign charting and a clinical escalation system.
After implementing the EPSS, crude mortality fell from 7.75 percent to 6.42 percent in one hospital and 7.57 percent to 6.15 percent in the other, preventing an estimated total of 769 deaths.
Researchers suggest using technology to improve the accuracy, reliability and availability of patients' vitals signs can help reduce mortality.
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