Improving Bedside Monitoring: Integrating the Skills of Nursing Technicians and Health Assistants for Early Detection of Patient Deterioration in Saudi Hospitals

Abstract

Early detection of patient deterioration is crucial for improving patient outcomes and reducing adverse events in hospitals. Nursing technicians and health assistants play a vital role in bedside monitoring and can contribute significantly to the timely identification of clinical deterioration. This systematic review explores the potential for integrating the skills of nursing technicians and health assistants to enhance bedside monitoring and early detection of patient deterioration in Saudi hospitals. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in relevant databases, and studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. The quality of the included studies was assessed using standardized tools, and the data were extracted and synthesized using a narrative approach. The findings highlight the importance of vital signs monitoring, the use of early warning scoring systems, and the effectiveness of educational interventions in improving the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of nursing technicians and health assistants in recognizing and responding to patient deterioration. The review also identifies the challenges and opportunities for integrating the skills of these healthcare professionals in various hospital settings, such as general wards, surgical units, and emergency departments. The study provides recommendations for policy, practice, and research to support the development and evaluation of interprofessional collaboration models and training programs that optimize the roles of nursing technicians and health assistants in bedside monitoring and early detection of patient deterioration in Saudi hospitals.