Effect of Training on Early Warning Score Implementation on Clinical Deterioration Recognition by Nurses in Hospitals in Taraba State

Background: Delayed recognition of clinical deterioration is a preventable cause of in-hospital cardiac arrest and death. Early Warning Score tools are proven aids for timely nurse recognition, yet their use in North East Nigerian hospitals is negligible. Aim: This study assessed the effect of training on Early Warning Score implementation on clinical deterioration recognition by nurses in hospitals in Taraba State. Methods: A quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-training assessments involved 80 nurses at two hospitals. Training comprised a one-day workshop and three weeks of bedside coaching. Clinical deterioration recognition was assessed using standardised simulated patient scenarios at baseline, one month, and three months. Results: Nurses' correct deterioration recognition improved from 42% at baseline to 74% at one month and 68% at three months (p < 0.001). Early Warning Score documentation increased significantly. Cases with incomplete scores at baseline outperformed controls after training. Conclusion: Early Warning Score training substantially improves nurse recognition of clinical deterioration in this under-resourced context. The study recommends national rollout of EWS training as part of nursing in-service education and integration of EWS charts into standard Nigerian hospital documentation. Keywords: Early Warning Score, clinical deterioration, nurse training, Taraba State, patient safety.