Providing Education to Improve Rapid Response Knowledge and Comfort of Nursing Staff

Abstract

Background: Rapid response systems (RRS) were designed to provide early intervention for deteriorating patients, preventing cardiac arrest through timely assessment and interventions with the support of a rapid response team. It is recommended that non-ICU nursing staff receive focused education to improve their knowledge and comfort levels relating to RRS. Purpose: This quality improvement project aimed to increase medical-surgical nurses’ knowledge and comfort levels with the rapid response process through an education intervention. Methods: Medical-surgical nurses received education on the rapid response process, focusing on signs of clinical deterioration, the activation process and indications, primary nurse responsibilities, and communication techniques. A follow-up retrospective post-pre survey was conducted to evaluate improvements in comfort and knowledge related to the rapid response process. Results: Survey results showed statistically significant improvements in comfort and knowledge levels with p-values <0.05 for each self-rated question. True or false questions provided objective data that identified areas for improvement for future education. Hands-on education was identified as a future opportunity to enhance knowledge and comfort levels further. Conclusions: This quality improvement project implemented formal education on the rapid response process in a medical-surgical unit and found an improvement in nurses’ knowledge and comfort levels regarding the process. Some results indicated a need for further education on specific topics. Simulation-based education would likely be beneficial for future education.