Abstract
Introduction: As part of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement initiative, we implemented a Pediatric Rapid Response Team (RRT) to provide rapid critical care assessment and care to children who experience deterioration outside of the Pediatric ICU (PICU). Hypothesis: We hypothesized that utilizing our RTT would lead to earlier intervention and fewer cardiopulmonary arrests outside of the PICU. Methods: In Dec 2006 we implemented a RRT comprised of a PICU resident, NP or PA, PICU nurse, respiratory therapist and PICU attending if available. Broad criteria were developed for activation of the RRT, including increased work of breathing, increased oxygen requirement, and altered mental status. We empowered any member of the medical team or patient’s family to activate the RRT if they perceived a change that was not being adequately addressed. Results: Using the hospital QI database, from 2004-2006 there were 7 arrests outside of the PICU and 16 in the PICU. After initiating RRT (2007-2010) there was only 1 arrest outside the PICU and 15 in the PICU. This was a significant reduction of arrests outside of the PICU (p=0.01) and no change for PICU (p=0.39) (Figure 1). We also saw a trend toward increased use of the RRT (Figure 2). Conclusions: Implementing a Pediatric RRT coincided with a significant decrease in cardiopulmonary arrests outside of the PICU. Also, we did not find increased cardiopulmonary arrests in the PICU, suggesting that cardiopulmonary arrests are being eliminated and not shifted to occur in the intensive care environment.Funded by the Epply Quasi Endowment
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have