Last week, the Emergency Department hosted Code Blue simulations in collaboration with Swedish’s Gossman Center. The team works to reduce errors, especially those during codes. These high-stress situations may result in errors due to miscommunication or lack of safety behaviors, skill or knowledge. The primary goal of these drills is to improve code blue processes, team communication, and to identify and address compliance barriers. The Swedish Culture of Safety is a main focus of every simulation that is facilitated, and encourages caregivers to recognize their own good catches and missed opportunities. In each simulation the team identifies how they can improve both communication and code outcomes.
This is a system-wide program supported by the Code Team Committee and is completed every 1-2 years. Caregivers with “hands-on” patient-care during a code are invited to participate in the simulations at their campus. Code response pulls together individuals from many different areas, including but not limited to pharmacy, respiratory care, hospitalists, SWAT nurses, RNs, security, and chaplains. This is why clear communication and team support are crucial during a code.