Summary

This study was undertaken to understand how feasible and acceptable it is to implement an early warning score in neonatal units in Kenya. An early warning score is a paper-based document to track a patient's vital signs, triggering action is if vital signs are outside of normal range. The study was undertaken in 3 hospitals in Kenya and involved the early warning score being implemented into the neonatal unit. Data was collected on how well the forms were completed and whether completion of the forms triggered action. Focus groups and interviews with women and health professionals were also undertaken to understand whether the early warning score was acceptable. This study is part of an ongoing programme of research, which started with the Born Too Soon study (give link back to the page). The next step in the programme of work is to undertake a clinical trial, evaluating the clinical effectiveness of the use of a neonatal early warning score. Publication in progress.