Standard observation charts

Standard observation charts for early recognition of clinical deterioration use evidence-based thresholds and human factors design. The colour-coded track and trigger charts include a Yellow Zone and a Red Zone. These zones are triggers for the Clinical Emergency Response System, prompting timely assessment and intervention.

Example observation chart plotting respiratory rate over time against colour-coded zones. Readings rise gradually from around 15, then two values enter the yellow zone near the end, showing how a recorded observation triggers an escalation threshold.
Paper-based NSW Health standard observation chart

Adult

Maternal

Standard

Neonatal

Paediatric

Standard 

Emergency department 

Contact

Email CEC-deterioratingpatient@health.nsw.gov.au

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