ResponsibilitiesThe Registered Nurse (RN) on the Rapid Response/Code Blue Team is a highly skilled and experienced nurse 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 RN / NSM 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 RN / NSM 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.
Required Education and Experience
- Graduate of an accredited school of nursing. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- MSN Preferred
Required Licensure and Certifications
- Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification required.
- Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certification required
- NIHSS certification required
- Annual EKG validation
- Fire Safety required.
- CEN or CCRN certification is required to be completed within 6 months of hire
- NNRP preferred
Required Minimum Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Training
- Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Registered Nurse in a high acuity clinical setting such as critical care and emergency department
- Experience in rapid response or code blue situations
Founded in 1887, Dignity Health - California Hospital Medical Center is a 318-bed, acute care, nonprofit hospital located in downtown Los Angeles. The hospital offers a full complement of services including a Level II trauma center, the Los Angeles Center for Womens Health, obstetrics and pediatric services, and comprehensive cardiac and surgical services. The hospital shares a legacy of humankindness with Dignity Health, one of the nations five largest health care systems. Visit here https://www.dignityhealth.org/socal/locations/californiahospital for more information.
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