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When a patient suddenly goes into cardiac or respiratory arrest, commonly known in hospital code as a “code blue,” every single second counts.
Earlier this month, Hillsboro Medical Center’s Clinical Education specialty leaders conducted operating room code blue simulation drills with the surgical department nurse residents to help them practice and prepare for these live-saving interventions.
“Through our simulation sessions, nurse residents learn how to proficiently utilize clinical and medical equipment in a safe practice environment,” explains Hillsboro Medical Center’s Clinical Education Manager and Nurse Specialty Training Program Residency Program Director AngelAnn Smith. “They gain direct guidance and immediate feedback from our knowledgeable clinical professional preceptors, educators, and clinical specialty leaders.”
Throughout their time in Hillsboro Medical Center’s Nurse Residency Program, nurse residents receive training in six specialty areas. These include Cardiac Cath Lab (Cath Lab), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Labor, Delivery, Recovery and Postpartum Unit (LDRP), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Perioperative Surgical Department (OR) and Emergency Department (ED).
During simulation trainings, real-to-life high fidelity mannequins are used to practice drills for scenarios such as neonatal, pediatric and adult resuscitation, postpartum hemorrhage, massive blood transfusion, emergency c-section and more.
“Clinical judgement is enhanced when residents are able to pause, process and ask questions along the way,” notes Clinical Specialty Leader Colby Russell, MSN, RN. “The overall impact has been measured by the increased speed to respond, react and perform critical procedures, resulting in more confident and competent nurses.”
Nurses who are brand new to nursing and nurses who wish to advance their professional careers in a new specialty area are encouraged to apply to Hillsboro Medical Center’s Nurse Residency Program.