title: Improving code blue response through the use of simulation.
abstract: In this research project, the response times to chest compressions, first defibrillation, and first dose of epinephrine in cardiac arrest were measured over a 3-month period through retrospective chart reviews. All nursing staff then participated in random, unannounced mock code blue drills using a high-fidelity patient simulator. After 3 months of code blue drills, the variables were again measured in patient code blue situations and compared with the response times before training. At the conclusion of this study, the response times for start of chest compressions and epinephrine administration improved significantly; the response time to defibrillation did not improve significantly. The response times were measured for an additional 3-month period to assess if the improvement was sustained.
authors.affiliation: Ephrata Community Hospital, 169 Martin Avenue, Ephrata, PA 17522, USA. kelleyhuseman@ephratahospital.org
authors.forename: Kelley F
authors.initials: KF
authors.lastname: Huseman
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D035841:Behavioral Research; D019985:Benchmarking / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D016887:Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation / Q000193:education*; D002317:Cardiovascular Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D047548:Defibrillators / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D004837:Epinephrine / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use; D005260:Female; D006323:Heart Arrest / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D007318:Inservice Training / Q000379:methods; D019300:Medical Errors / Q000517:prevention & control; D008875:Middle Aged; D015402:Nursing Education Research; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology / Q000592:standards; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000592:standards*; D016544:Patient Simulation; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D002317:Cardiovascular Agents; D004837:Epinephrine