Patient safety in acute care: Going around in circles? A discussion paper

Aim – To discuss why adult patients continue to unnecessarily die. Background Healthcare professionals are failing to recognise signs of physiological deterioration. As a result adult patients are unnecessarily dying. This is despite international healthcare policy requiring healthcare professionals are appropriately trained to recognise the deteriorating adult patient. Design – A discussion paper Data sources – Centred upon UK health policy but with reference to international practice, this discussion paper reflects upon our experiences whilst being supported by relevant literature and theory. Implications for nursing – Significant, albeit timely changes are proposed. These include publication of key performance patient metrics and evidence of staff attaining competence at recognition of the deteriorating adult ward patient. Conclusion – Change is urgently required. Healthcare professionals, healthcare organisations and international governments must prevent unnecessary deaths arising within acute hospitals.