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Run: Stop and Watch Early Warning Tool

Use this Stop and Watch early warning tool to capture subtle resident changes, notify the nurse fast, and create a clear record before a minor shift becomes ...

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Resident & Staff Identification

Full name of the resident being observed.
Resident's room number and unit or wing.
Record the exact date and time when the change was first noticed.
Full name and role (e.g., CNA, HHA, Med Aide) of the staff member completing this tool.
Name of the nurse who was notified or to whom this report will be handed off.

STOP — Something Is Not Right

Select every change you have noticed compared to this resident's normal baseline. If you are unsure, select the item and describe it in the comments. Do not wait until you are certain — early reporting saves lives.
A general sense that something is 'off' or not right — even if you cannot pinpoint exactly what it is. Trust your instincts as someone who knows this resident.
Resident is quieter, less talkative, not responding to conversation, or withdrawing from social interaction compared to their normal behavior.
Resident requires more assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living) such as dressing, bathing, eating, or mobility than is typical for them.
Resident is disengaged, uninterested, or refusing to participate in activities they normally enjoy or attend.
Resident appears disoriented, is asking repetitive questions, does not recognize familiar people or places, or shows increased confusion compared to their baseline cognitive status.
Resident appears more anxious, restless, combative, or emotionally distressed than is typical for them.
Resident fell, nearly fell, reported feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or unsteady on their feet.
Resident verbally reported pain, or displayed non-verbal signs of pain such as grimacing, guarding, moaning, or reluctance to move.

WATCH — Physical Signs of Change

Resident consumed noticeably less food or fluid than is typical for them. Note which meal(s) were affected in the comments.
Resident appeared short of breath, was breathing faster or slower than normal, was using accessory muscles to breathe, or complained of difficulty breathing.
Resident's skin appears pale, flushed, yellow (jaundiced), bluish (cyanotic), mottled, or there is a new wound, rash, bruise, or skin breakdown not previously documented.
Urine appears dark, cloudy, bloody, or has a strong/foul odor; resident is urinating much more or less than usual, or has new incontinence.
Resident has not had a bowel movement in 3+ days, has new diarrhea, or stool appears black, tarry, or bloody.
Resident has gained or lost weight noticeably, or clothing/shoes/rings appear tighter or looser than usual (may indicate fluid retention or loss).
Resident's lower extremities appear more swollen than usual, or pitting edema is observed.
Resident has a new or worsening cough, is coughing during or after meals, or is showing signs of aspiration risk.

Description of Change & Nurse Notification

Be specific and objective. Include when the change was first noticed, how it differs from the resident's normal baseline, and any relevant context (e.g., 'Mrs. Jones refused breakfast and lunch today and is sleeping more than usual — she normally eats well and participates in bingo').
Estimate how long the observed change has been occurring.
Confirm that you have communicated this observation directly to the nurse on duty. This form does NOT replace verbal notification — it supplements it.
Record the time you spoke with the nurse.
If the change involves a visible physical finding (e.g., skin change, swelling, wound), attach a photo per your facility's policy.
Signature of the CNA or frontline staff member completing this report.

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