On August 11, 2009 a Code Blue Simulation was held at New Visions Youth Development Center thanks to the generous community outreach of Austin Peay State University. The trainers were Grace Moodt, MSRN and Debbie Ellison, MSRN, both Assistant Professors at APSU. The purpose of the simulation was to facilitate teamwork during an emergency and to train all departments in the Code Blue procedures.
Our nurses at New Visions deal with a wide range of medical problems including diabetes, asthma, pregnancy, high blood pressure and the like. We conduct, by policy; Code Red drills a minimum of once a quarter. Since our nurses are only present for first and part of second shift, the need for our CSO’s and other staff to be prepared for a real code red is imperative.
The four-hour course was well designed and inclusive. It offered a nice balance of didactic lessons and practice. The scenarios were adapted to meet real life situations that could occur at New Visions. They included heart attack, hypo/hyperglycemia, dehydration and possible drug overdose. The simulations gave us an opportunity to practice and re-practice our skills in dealing with these life threatening situations. The simulations required active participation and practical application of skills. This process was well received by all departmental participants: treatment, education, security, clinical and administration, as well as the outside guests.
New Visions thanks ASPU School of Nursing and especially, Grace and Debbie for donating their time and materials. The training was very educational. We hope to have an ongoing relationship with APSU to future enhance our code blue skills.
New Visions would also like to thank Dr. Lois Wagner, a member of our community board who made the introduction to APSU.
Molly Snell, RN and Barbara Lonardi
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