The upgrade enables staff to record vital observations, such as heart and respiratory rates, temperature and blood pressure, on iPads that will show, in real time, when a child's health is deteriorating.

The system, called Paediatric Vitals, records vital signs using the National Paediatric Early Warning System to ensure a standard approach of tracking children's deterioration.

In addition, clinicians will be able to instantly access charts with real time information from any of the devices within the trust. This enhances patient safety by ensuring more accurate and timely monitoring, which supports early detection and intervention for patients who are at risk.

Julie Plant, divisional director of nursing for women and children's services, said: 'We are one of the first hospitals to use the digital system and this is one of the many steps we are taking to improving the quality of care to our children and young people, and indeed, to support their parents and carers at a time when they are most anxious. 

'Staff have worked very hard to ensure the new system was launched smoothly, with minimal disruption and with the involvement of the children, young people and families.'

The rollout of Paediatric Vitals is one of several digital systems being launched as part of the trust's ongoing large-scale digital transformation programme.