Outcomes of Digital Alerting Systems in Secondary Care

Why? The investigators are trying to find out if participants that suddenly deteriorate on the ward can be identified sooner by wearing a wearable sensor. This is an important study to see if the sensor works correctly in recording continuous vital observations of heart rate, respiratory rate and temperature. This information can help doctors and nurses identify un-well participants.

What? The investigators will ask the participants to wear a light wearable sensor on the chest that can be worn for 5 days. If the participants are still in hospital after this time the sensor can be changed. All sensors are disposable. The participants would not have to actively do anything to the sensor. We will also participants to complete a short questionnaire about the sensor.

Who? All participants on the ward that are admitted with a new medical or surgical problem can take part in the study. Participants undergoing a surgical procedure that require at least one overnight stay are eligible to take part in this study.

Where? This study is being conducted at West Middlesex University Hospital and St Marys Hospital Paddington. Only certain wards are being included at both sites, if the participant moves wards the sensor will be removed.

How? The study will last around 5 years and we aim to recruit 1000 participants.