FAQ: What is NEWS2 Recording?
NEWS2 is the nationally standardised system for spotting early deterioration in adults by turning six routine vital signs into a single score that guides urgency of response. It also accounts for supplemental oxygen and uses ACVPU (includes “new confusion”).
Why does the NHS use NEWS2?
Using one common score improves recognition and communication of deterioration (including sepsis) across services (care homes, GP, ambulance, hospital). Standardisation is associated with safer, faster care.
Who is NEWS2 for—and who is it not for?
It’s for adults (16+). It should not be used for children or during pregnancy; use paediatric/maternity tools. Some conditions (e.g., certain neurological injuries) may limit reliability—clinical judgement still applies.
What observations make up the score?
Respiratory rate, oxygen saturation (SpO₂), temperature, systolic BP, pulse, and level of consciousness/new confusion (ACVPU). Each parameter scores 0–3; scores are summed (add 2 if on supplemental oxygen).
How are NEWS2 scores interpreted?
0–4: Low risk → continue routine monitoring (typically at least 12-hourly; many services use 4–6-hourly).
Any single “3”: Urgent review.
5–6: Urgent response.
≥7: Emergency response/continuous monitoring and escalation.
(Local protocols specify responders/timeframes.)
What’s special about oxygen in NEWS2?
NEWS2 has two SpO₂ scales. Scale 2 is only for people with confirmed hypercapnic (type 2) respiratory failure; target saturations are typically 88–92% and should be set by a competent clinician. Choosing Scale 2 and target sats is a separate clinical decision that must be documented.
Does a high NEWS2 give a diagnosis?
No—NEWS2 indicates how unwell someone may be and how quickly they need review; it doesn’t tell you why. Clinical concern always overrides the number.
Practical tips for care home & community teams
Measure accurately (calibrated devices). Enter whether oxygen is given and the device/flow. NEWS2 must include ACVPU and “new confusion” when present.
Follow local escalation policy matching the NEWS2 banding; document who you contacted and when.
In care homes, pair NEWS2 with soft signs and a structured handover (e.g., RESTORE2 with SBAR/D)—this is the recommended community approach for recognising and escalating deterioration.
For residents with long-term hypercapnic respiratory failure (often COPD), ensure a clinician confirms SpO₂ Scale 2 use and target sats in the care plan/notes.
Information for service users/clients & families
NEWS2 helps staff spot problems early and escalate quickly, improving safety and communication with GPs, community nurses, and ambulance crews.
It’s a screening tool, not a diagnosis—staff still use their clinical judgement and knowledge of the person.
In many care homes, staff also use soft signs and a simple communication framework so that concerns are explained clearly to clinicians.
Using NEWS2 inside Care Control Cloud
Where do I record a NEWS2 in Cloud?
In Care Planning → Record Care Plan Information → More options → Medical → Launch on NEWS2. Select the resident and complete the NEWS2 form (enter all vitals and oxygen details).
What does Cloud show me when risk is raised?
If Cloud calculates Medium risk, the interface turns Amber and gives further guidance.
If High risk, it turns Red with additional actions.
You can also choose Start Intensive Care monitoring to increase observation frequency.
Can I flag the entry for follow-up?
Yes—use Flag to Care Review and choose one or more areas (e.g., Nursing, Clinical). This surfaces the entry for multidisciplinary review and governance.
Where can I see trends and a list of NEWS2 scores?
Go to Care Planning → Analysis → Monitoring Analysis → NEWS2 for the full list, and open the Chart to visualise trends over time (supports spotting deterioration trajectories).
Where is the NEWS2 entry in the record?
You’ll also find the completed record under Essentials → Care Notes, with a Read more view showing full details.
See the full guide
Visit the full guide below for more information on recording NEWS2 within Care Control Cloud: