Description

We evaluated the effectiveness of MEWS and biochemical
parameters in predicting outcomes for acute medical
admissions. Data from consecutive admissions to the Acute
Medical Unit (AMU) of National Hospital of Sri Lanka
were collected. C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin, white
cell count, platelet count and haemoglobin values were
collected. Adverse endpoints were HDU/ICU admission,
cardio-respiratory emergency/resuscitation and death.

A MEWS score of >=5 together with increasing age,
pulse rate, respiratory rate, AVPU score, CRP,
CRP/Albumin ratio and reduced platelet and albumin level
all increased the odds of reaching adverse endpoints.
Adding a score for biochemical parameters increased the area
under the ROC curve for reaching adverse endpoints.
Biochemical parameters better predicted length of hospitalstay
and adverse outcomes. A combined scoring system
improved the sensitivity of prediction.