When Code Blue is activated, every minute counts. This means that the Code Blue team must work together in perfect sync to resuscitate the patient against a ticking clock. But such high-calibre teamwork does not simply happen. It must be practised.

One of the challenges in carrying out Code Blue resuscitation is that team members are not fixed. Since emergencies can occur in any patient care area, team members are activated based on their proximity to the patient to ensure the quickest response time. This means some of them may not have had the opportunity to work together before.  

To address this challenge, the SingHealth Duke-NUS Institute of Medical Simulation (SIMS) has been partnering with Singapore General Hospital (SGH) to organise a series of in situ simulation training. Each session allows healthcare teams to practise Code Blue resuscitation by simulating a range of cardiopulmonary arrest scenarios in real patient care settings. A focused debrief session follows to discuss what took place during the simulation and identify areas for improvement. To date, close to 60 clinicians, nurses and Respiratory Therapists (RTs) have undergone in situ simulation training for Code Blue resuscitation.

"Through in situ simulation training like this, we aim to build up a foundation in interprofessional collaborative practice so that regardless of who they work with, Code Blue teams are able to function seamlessly when the moment calls for it." Dr Carrie Leong, Associate Consultant, Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, SGH and the champion for Code Blue in situ simulation workshops explains.

Not only does an in situ simulation workshop like this allow healthcare teams to practice critical procedures in no-risk setting, it also facilitates open communication between members from the different professions. During the debrief, participants are able to clarify and better understand each other's roles, which will help them when responding to an actual Code Blue activation.

"Coming from different disciplines and wards, we might have different expectations of the Code Blue Team members', ward nurses' and primary team's roles during a Code Blue resuscitation." Constance Teo, a Respiratory Therapist from SGH, shares. "This simulation has allowed the participants to learn, practise as a team and gain confidence to perform our individual roles better. With enhanced coordination and communication, the team can work more effectively to benefit our patients."  

Participants of the Code Blue in situ simulation workshop held in February 2019

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If you are keen to conduct an in situ simulation training programme, contact [email protected].