8 Signs and Symptoms Your Patient may be Deteriorating

There are several important signs and symptoms that can indicate if a patient may be deteriorating. Early recognition and intervention in light of these changes may be critical to preventing irreversible or life-threatening events from taking place. Even the most subtle changes in our patients clinical status can be early warning signs that a patient is deteriorating. Here are 8 signs and symptoms that your patient may be deteriorating:

1. Changes in vital signs: Vital sign changes with a blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature may change when a patient's health is deteriorating. For example, a low blood pressure with a high respiratory and heart rate may indicate that the patient is in distress such as with an internal hemorhage or sepsis.

2. Worsening level of consciousness: The patient may become confused, drowsy, or even unresponsive. Recognizing subtle changes in a patient’s baseline neurologic status can help prevent serious and life threatening events.

3. Increased or new pain: The patient may report increased or new pain, which may indicate a worsening condition or a new problem.

4. Difficulty breathing: The patient may experience shortness of breath or labored breathing, which can be a sign of respiratory distress.

5. Changes in skin color or temperature: The patient's skin may become pale, mottled, or cool to the touch, which can be a sign of poor circulation or shock. A change from warm and dry to cool and clammy may indicate circulation and perfusion impairment.

6. New or worsening swelling: Swelling in the legs, arms, or other parts of the body can indicate a worsening condition.

7. Changes in urine output: Decreased urine output can indicate kidney failure or dehydration, both of which can be serious health issues. This is important to recognize in case your patient is receiving any medications that can harm the kidneys (e.g. IV antibiotics, NSAIDs)

8. Decreased appetite: A lack of appetite can be a sign that the patient is losing their appetite or feeling unwell.