Question

What is obstetric early warning score?

Hint:

The Obstetric Early Warning Score (OEWS) is a helpful tool for early identification of pregnant women at risk of complications. Timely intervention can prevent life-threatening outcomes.

Answer 1

Step 1: Obstetric Early Warning Score (OEWS).
The Obstetric Early Warning Score (OEWS) is a clinical tool used to monitor pregnant women for early signs of deterioration in their health, especially during labor and postpartum periods. It helps identify women who may be at risk of developing life-threatening conditions, such as eclampsia, sepsis, hemorrhage, or cardiac arrest. The score helps in the early detection of acute obstetric emergencies, allowing timely intervention.
The OEWS is based on various physiological parameters that are routinely assessed in pregnant women. These parameters are scored and then combined to give a total score. The higher the score, the more likely the patient is deteriorating and requires urgent medical attention.
Key Components of OEWS: 1. Heart Rate (HR):
- Normal: 60-100 bpm.
- Scoring: A score of 1-3 is given depending on whether the heart rate is lower or higher than normal ranges. 2. Blood Pressure (BP):
- Systolic BP<90 mmHg or >160 mmHg is abnormal and indicates deterioration, scoring higher points for either condition.
3. Respiratory Rate (RR):
- Normal: 12-20 breaths per minute.
- An abnormal respiratory rate (below 10 or above 30) gets a higher score. 4. Oxygen Saturation (SpO2):
- Normal: 95-100%.
- A lower SpO2 (less than 90%) increases the score. 5. Temperature (Temp):
- A fever (greater than 38°C or less than 35° would contribute to an increased score.
6. Level of Consciousness:
- Scoring is also based on whether the patient is alert or shows signs of confusion or unresponsiveness. A lower score is given for confusion or drowsiness. Total Score:
- Typically, a score of 4 or more indicates that the woman is at significant risk of a serious medical condition and should be closely monitored and assessed for intervention.