Recognising and responding to clinical deterioration saves lives. Our review of the literature indicated that there are very few clinical trials of Early Warning Scores (Kyriacos et al 2011). Adequately powered cluster randomised controlled trials would ensure that the best systems are available before national roll out. While need for further research is included in the Working Party's Report, this is not mentioned in the wider coverage.

Kyriacos U., Jelsma J., Jordan S. (2011) Monitoring Vital Signs Using Early Warning Scoring Systems: A Review Of The Literature Journal of Nursing Management. 19, 311-320

Competing interests: None declared