How effectively do you function in a cardiac arrest? A creative program approach to code skills.

Abstract

Novice and experienced nurses are consistently concerned about their knowledge, skills and abilities to function appropriately in arrest situations. The clinical teachers at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto have established an innovative, creative, practical and cost-effective workshop that addresses nurses' code skills. The 500 evaluations received from nurses who have attended the workshops show the program is a resounding success. The 4-hour workshop concentrates on the nurses' role during cardiac arrests in four key areas: leadership, drug administration, suctioning, and airway management. The program is complete with goals and objectives, props, specific evaluation forms, and a take-home examination. The hands-on component of the workshop allows the application of new information under close observation and supervision of knowledgeable and skilled clinical teachers.