SHM Converge Scientific Abstract ePoster Gallery-Development of a Digital App-Based Rapid Response Toolkit

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The project developed a digital, app-based rapid response toolkit to support clinicians managing acutely decompensating patients. The need arose because rapid response teams (RRTs) are essential in emergencies, yet all first-year residents at the institution reported low confidence in leading these events, mainly due to limited knowledge. Since cognitive aids can improve performance during medical crises, the team created a mobile-friendly toolkit to provide immediate management cues and time-sensitive guidance.<br /><br />The toolkit includes four main emergency categories: altered mental status, shock, respiratory distress, and arrhythmia. It also contains ACLS guidelines, institutional resource numbers, and policy information. Content was built from society guidelines and local expert consensus. To improve usability, the design incorporated two established cognitive aid formats: a linear structure for step-by-step guidance and a sampling structure for quick access to specific information.<br /><br />The toolkit was published through OCCAM (Online Clinical Care Advisories and Messages), an internal mobile and web application available on the institution’s network. The app platform allows easy embedding of text and images, rapid retrieval of information, and efficient updates when guidelines change. Because the content applies across multiple specialties, it may help create a shared mental model within interdisciplinary RRTs.<br /><br />The toolkit became the second most accessed among 20 available toolkits in OCCAM, suggesting strong use and relevance. The authors conclude that this digital format is a practical and accessible way to support rapid response leadership, but further research is needed to determine its effect on leader performance and patient outcomes.

Asset Subtitle

Joseph R. Bell

Meta Tag

Author List Alexandra C. Collis, David Carlbom, Joseph R. Bell, Laura Quinnan-Hostein, Nicole Solvang

Category Innovations

Concept Rapid Response Toolkit

Concept Rapid Response Team

Concept Acute Decompensation

Concept Cognitive Aid

Concept Altered Mental Status

Distinguished Non-Finalist

Presenter Organization University of Washington School of Medicine

Presenting Author Joseph R. Bell

Track Education

Keywords

rapid response toolkit

acutely decompensating patients

clinical cognitive aids

medical emergencies

resident confidence

ACLS guidelines

mobile health app

shock management

respiratory distress

arrhythmia

Rapid Response Toolkit

Rapid Response Team

Acute Decompensation

Cognitive Aid

Altered Mental Status