The Response Team Program Coord RN (RTPC) on the Clinical Response/Code Team is a highly skilled and experienced individual responsible for providing immediate assessment, intervention, and stabilization to patients exhibiting signs of clinical deterioration or experiencing a medical emergency (e.g., Code Blue, Rapid Response). This position serves as a critical resource for the hospital, working collaboratively with physicians, other nurses, and interdisciplinary team members to improve patient outcomes and prevent adverse events. The position utilizes advanced clinical judgment, critical thinking skills, and expertise in resuscitation and advanced life support to provide optimal patient care in high-pressure situations.
Rapid Response:
- Responds promptly to Rapid Response Team (RRT), Code Neuro, Code SIRS activations throughout the hospital.
- Conducts rapid and thorough assessments of patients exhibiting signs of clinical deterioration (e.g., changes in vital signs, altered mental status, respiratory distress).
- Initiates appropriate interventions based on assessment findings, including oxygen therapy, medication administration, fluid resuscitation, and airway management.
- Collaborates with the primary care team to develop and implement a plan of care to stabilize the patient and prevent further deterioration.
- Provides education and support to bedside nurses on early recognition of clinical deterioration and appropriate interventions.
- Documents all assessments, interventions, and patient responses accurately and completely in the electronic health record.
Code Blue Response:
- Responds immediately to Code Blue activations throughout the hospital.
- Assumes a leadership role in the resuscitation effort, coordinating team members and ensuring adherence to established protocols.
- Performs advanced life support measures, including chest compressions, ventilation, defibrillation, and medication administration, according to ACLS guidelines.
- Monitors patient response to interventions and adjusts treatment as needed.
- Documents all events during the Code Blue, including interventions, medications administered, and patient outcomes.
- Will lead and or participate in post-code debriefings to identify areas for improvement in the resuscitation process.
Code OB / Code Crimson / Code White:
- Assumes a leadership role in the overseeing the coordination of team members, ensuring adherence to established protocols and assisting with the escalation process as needed.
- Will lead and or participate in post-code debriefings to identify areas for improvement in the resuscitation process.
Clinical Expertise and Leadership:
- Serves as a clinical resource and mentor for other nurses, providing guidance and support in the management of critically ill patients.
- Maintains current knowledge of best practices in critical care, resuscitation, and emergency medicine.
- Participates in the development and implementation of policies and procedures related to rapid response and code blue management.
- Identifies opportunities to improve patient safety and quality of care.
- Participates in hospital committees and initiatives related to critical care and emergency preparedness.
Communication and Collaboration:- Communicates effectively with physicians, nurses, and other members of the healthcare team.
- Provides clear and concise reports to the attending physician and other relevant providers.
- Maintains a professional and respectful demeanor in all interactions.
- Collaborates with other departments (e.g., respiratory therapy, pharmacy) to ensure optimal patient care.
