Why was a national paediatric early warning system (PEWS) introduced in England and how can nurses use it to spot deterioration in babies, children and young people?

In the latest episode of the Nursing Standard podcast, Nursing Children and Young People editor Christine Walker unpicks PEWS in more detail. She is joined by West Midlands Children’s Network paediatric critical care lead educator Vicci Hornsby and Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust lead nurse for patient safety Karl Emms.

They discuss the background to PEWS, its development and components, as well as the need to discuss a child’s condition with parents and carers, recording vital signs observations and how clinical intuition is built into the system.

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For more episodes of the Nursing Standard podcast, visit rcni.com/podcast

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What is a ‘normal’ relationship with alcohol – and how do you know if yours needs addressing?

In the latest episode of the Nursing Standard podcast, Southmead Hospital’s lead nurse for addictions Sally Quigley discusses nurses’ relationship with alcohol – and the factors behind evidence that suggests alcohol misuse might be higher among nurses than in the general population.

She also discusses the need for compassion towards yourself and patients, and what that means for nursing practice.

Follow the Nursing Standard podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Acast or wherever you get your podcasts.

For more episodes of the Nursing Standard podcast, visit rcni.com/podcast

Talk to your GP, who can discuss local services available to you

Call Drinkline if you are concerned about your drinking, or someone else’s – 0300 123 1110

Contact Alcoholics Anonymous

Visit the UK Addiction Treatment Centres website

Access the RCN’s free counselling service for members

More resources are available on the Drinkaware website

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Who can you learn the most from in your workplace – the good or ‘bad’ nursing leaders?

Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust associate chief clinical information officer Amanda Jackson discusses why she believes all sorts of leaders – positive and negative – can be sources of inspiration in your career.

In the latest episode of the Nursing Standard podcast, Ms Jackson also discusses her own leadership journey, and why she believes advocating for patients and colleagues is one of the most important behaviours of a true leader.

This episode was recorded at the Nursing Careers and Jobs Fair in Leeds in March 2026.

Follow the Nursing Standard podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Acast or wherever you get your podcasts.

For more episodes of the Nursing Standard podcast, visit rcni.com/podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.