Code Green - Implementation of a successful obstretric emergency response team

Rationale:         To provide guidelines for all Birthing Inn Staff for an OB emergency, which is defined as any OB emergency except a Code Blue (Code Blue Button will be pushed and the rapid response team will respond).

Purpose:           To ensure staff competency and preparedness for any OB emergency. Improve overall response from adjacent OB departments, including L&D, Postpartum, Nursery, and Antenatal Testing.

Program creativity and originality:          The title of the program was derived by our chief of obstetrics. She had concerns about the response time of our staff to emergencies, particularly staff that were in adjacent areas to the emergency who could respond, but did not. The objective was to have a total team approach to emergencies. Code Green is catchy and supports our total response , Code Green for “Go”.

Description of major program outcomes:           When and emergency occurs, the first responder pushes a specific emergency button, which alerts the unit secretary to announce “Code Green” overhead throughout the entire obstetric building. All available staff and physicians respond either to be hands on or to cover the rest of the patients during the emergency.                                               Outcomes that we have seen include: improved team approach, increased response time, improved staff competency and confidence, improved patient outcomes and physician satisfaction.

Timeliness of program:                        Within the past three years our population of high-risk patients has increased. Emergencies such as pulmonary embolism, amniotic fluid embolism, abruptions and hemorrhages were on the rise.

Relevance of program for women’s health, obstetric and neonatal nursing:         

This program is specific to women’s health and obstetric nursing. Noelle simulation manikin was purchased to assist with running “Code Green” drills. Seven preset scenarios were used initially with additional scenarios being created by the unit Code Green Implementation Team.

Implications for women’s health, obstetric and neonatal nursing practice, education or research:                        This program is all about quality of care, patient safety, and staff education. Being prepared for obstetric emergencies and being able to improve emergency practices is key to the safety of our mothers and infants.