Date: 17/09/2025
Time: 09:30am – 04:30pm
Title: NEWS Tool Score, A-E Assessment, SBAR and Long-Term Conditions, Immune System
The class started with identifying the six physiological and one non-physiological parameters of the NEWS tool chart which include oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, blood pressure, pulse, temperature, neurological state (AVCPU). We discussed the A-E (Airway, Breathing, Circulation, Disability, Exposure) assessment which is a systematic method used to identify and respond to identify health conditions quickly. The lecturer went on to discuss the SBAR communication tool, an acronym for Situation, Background, Assessment and Recommendation. This is used to improve communication especially when escalating patient concerns to senior staff or doctors.
Understanding the NEWS tool is important because of how its supports early decision making and communication between healthcare professionals. Any single missed observation or incorrect score could delay vital intervention. We practiced completing NEWS chart with sample patient data and discussed how to interpret the scores and escalate appropriately. The A-E assessment ensures life threatening conditions are managed systematically while the SBAR helps prioritise relevant details and communicate more effectively and professionally.
Going forward, I will practice using the NEWS chart, A-E Assessment and SBAR when assessing patients during clinical placements and my place of work to improve my competence. I will also keep an eye on recognising abnormal signs such crackles, wheezing and linking to possible causes and interventions.
During the afternoon, we discussed long-term conditions which are chronic diseases that lasts longer than 6 months but can be managed with ongoing care and support such as COPD, diabetes, cancer, asthma, Parkinson, stroke etc. The teaching also covered factors that increases the risk of LTC, impact of living with LTC and the immune system.
This teaching made me understand why patients with long term conditions are at higher risk of infections and complications which is due to their low or weak immune system. It has also helped me understand the complexity and lifelong nature of managing LTCs.
Moving forward, I will read more on long term conditions, particularly those most common in my place of work and placement areas. I will ask questions and engage more in clinical placements when I encounter patients with LTC. I will also build my confidence in contributing to care planning for patients with long-term conditions.
KSB addressed:
K4: Understand the principles of research and how research findings are used to inform evidence-based practice
K19: Know how and when to escalate to the appropriate professional for expert help and advice
K21: Understand co-morbidities and the demands of meeting people’s holistic needs when prioritising care
K33: Understand when to seek appropriate advice to manage a risk and avoid compromising quality of care and health outcomes
K36: Understand the rules of the different providers of health and care
K37: Understand the challenges of providing safe nursing care for people with complex comorbidities and complex care needs
K39: Understand the principles and processes involved in supporting people and families with a range of care needs to maintain optimal independence and avoid unnecessary interventions and disruptions to their lives
S2: Keep complete, clear, accurate and timely records
S11: Report any situations, behaviours or errors that could result in poor care outcomes
S24: Perform a range of Nursing procedures and manage devices, to meet people’s need for safe, effective and person-centred care
S30: Recognise when a person’s condition has improved or deteriorated by undertaking health monitoring, interpreting, promptly responding, sharing findings and escalating as needed
S35: Accurately undertake risk assessments, using contem