The Rapid Response Team (RRT) consists of an experienced Critical Care Unit Nurse and a Respiratory Therapist who respond to all medical emergencies within the hospital. An intensivist or hospitalists are also available as needed. Anyone can activate the RRT, including the patient or their family members by dialing 2000. The RRT RN is a key member; their role requires excellent customer service, assessment, sound clinical judgement and critical thinking skills. The RRT RN responds to urgent and emergency patient needs, performs proactive rounds looking for the beginning stages of patient deterioration, and is a clinical resource for all staff.
The RRT RN utilizes intense assessment and critical thinking skills in a manner that supports quality patient care and optimum outcomes. He/she acts as a role model by mentoring and educating the bedside staff in a supportive relationship that facilitates appropriate and timely patient treatment. The RRT RN is able to delegate, coordinate and provide safe, therapeutic nursing care to patient/families. This individual makes decisions based on the RRT Standardized Procedure and takes action regarding a wide range of routine and complex patient issues. He/she collaborates with appropriate disciplines to coordinate continuity of patient care in support of the medical and nursing plans of care. The RRT RN responds to all code blue, stroke alert, neuro alert, sepsis alert, massive blood transfusion, malignant hyperthermia throughout the RCH campus and stays with the patient until the patient is transferred to the appropriate level of care. In addition, the RRT RN will educate and update family members, as appropriate, while working with patients.