Sunday, June 28, 2009
Hall A (San Diego Convention Center)
Kathleen (Kathy) Whitehouse, RNC, CLNC, MSN/E , Mission Hospital, Mission Viejo, CA
Elizabeth Reese, RN , Mission Hospital, Mission Viejo, CA
Maternal hemorrhage is one of the most catastrophic events a Labor and Delivery nurse will ever face.  Through the presentation of an actual case, one unit's experience will be profiled, critiqued, and analyzed.  Preparation is key to managing post partum hemorrhage.  Studies have shown that a dedicated Rapid Response Team or Trauma Team is highly beneficial in improving morbit and outcomes.  The scope of our vision was specific, but we were first challenged by the ability to debrief following such a case.  We then targeted specific areas of improvement such as processes, equipment, and education.  We gathered an inter-disciplinary team of physicians, nurses, and support staff to improve our response to trauma in the Labor and Delivery setting.  We approached the process by instituting a "Red Trauma Task Force" specific to Labor and Delivery.  We conducted research, networked with other professionals, and determined a course of action, which included getting administration on board.   Our results were evident.  We presented our case and quality measures at Nursing Grand Rounds in our facility.  We have been asked to speak to the Orange County Perinatal Council next April.  We are getting our message out there!  We now have a Red Trauma Cart, separate from all other emergency carts, to utilize in the event of post partum hemorrhage.  We obtained additional equipment, we are writing policies, and presenting education to physicians and staff.  We plan to begin hemorrhage drills very soon.  Our ultimate goal to improve patient safety and  outcomes has been realized.