Shields et al reported a maternal early warning trigger (MEWT) tool for evaluation of the obstetrical patient. It can help to identify a patient who should undergo a clinical evaluation. The authors are from Marian Regional Medical Center (Santa Maria), Dignity Health (San Francisco), and Sacramento Maternal Fetal Medicine Medical Group.
Patient selectin: pregnant woman
Parameter
Trigger
temperature
<= 36°C or >= 38°C
pulse oximeter
<= 93%
heart rate
< 50 or > 110 bpm
respiratory rate
< 12 or > 24 bpm
systolic blood pressure
< 80 or > 155 mm Hg
diastolic blood pressure
< 45 or > 105 mm Hg
mental status
altered
fetal heart rate
> 160 bpm
Indications for further evaluation:
(1) abnormal maternal temperature
(2) >= 2 abnormal triggers
(3) 1 trigger and nurse uncomfortable with patient status
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