Impact of an Early Warning System Protocol, for Patients Admitted to the Medical Floors with SARS-COV2 Pneumonia, on ICU Admission.

Background: COVID-19 placed a significant burden on the global healthcare system. Strain in critical care capacity has been associated with increased COVID-19-related ICU mortality. This study evaluates the impact of an early warning system and response team implemented on medical floors to safely triage and care for critically ill patients on the floor and preserve ICU capacity.