Use of Rapid Response Team Protocols

The composition of rapid response teams varies widely. In many instances, the responding team members may not include a physician or nurse practitioner with the critical care skills and knowledge to order the necessary tests or prescribe medications necessary for treating the deteriorating patient. Several strategies exist to recognize and care for the deteriorating patients. These include early warning scores and specialized teams such as those for sepsis or stroke. To assure timely access to treatment, prescribing ability that is usually limited to physicians can be delegated through an authorizing mechanism. This chapter describes how protocols, often called medical directives, can be used by nurses and respiratory therapists.