MEWS chart guidance for use within the Post-natal Community Setting (573)

Introduction 

The use of a MEWS chart as part of a woman’s vital signs assessment is a useful tool to support the midwife and other care-givers in clinical decision making. The MEWS chart triggers in conjunction with full history taking and thorough post-natal examination will assist the clinician in the prompt recognition, appropriate escalation and treatment of the deteriorating postpartum woman. 

Process 

• All postnatal women will have their inpatient MEWS chart transferred to the community midwifery team as part of the post-natal SWHHMR
• The inpatient MEWS chart will be continued in the community
• BP, Temp, Pulse and Respirations will be recorded daily for the woman’s first 3 postnatal days unless otherwise indicated/prescribed e.g. if a woman reports feeling unwell on any visit thereafter.
• Fundus, lochia, perineal or abdominal wound will be inspected and findings recorded during each visiting episode unless otherwise indicated.
• Good Communication, documentation, care planning, timely and appropriate escalation of concerns is essential.
• Remember SBAR