Simulation education: early identification of patient physiologic deterioration by acute care nurses.

Purpose/objectives: The specific aim of this quality improvement project was to improve acute care nurses' ability to assess deteriorating patients, recognize signs of instability and immediate critical treatment, and escalate care in a timely manner.

Background: Early identification of and treatment of patient deterioration can improve patient and hospital/system spheres of clinical nurse specialist influence.

Rationale: An earlier response to clinical deterioration may result in improved patient outcomes.