An unsuccessful code blue is difficult to deal with as a health care provider. An unsuccessful code blue on an infant is devastating. Recently, the staff on 2 East conducted a code blue on an infant at the start of the day shift. Despite prolonged and extensive efforts, the code was unsuccessful. Compounding the stress for the staff, 2 East was completely full with patients. Additionally, the surgical schedule for the day had nine post-op admissions for them.
After the code, the 2 East staff dealt with the aftermath, caring for the family, caring for each other and participating in events. However, they also pulled together to provide for other patients and began discharging them. By 1100, discharges were being seen on the bed board and post-op patients were quickly being assigned rooms. The professionalism and teamwork of the 2 East staff made it possible for patients to be transferred from PACU to their rooms with only short delays. This promoted patient satisfaction, PACU throughput allowed the OR to continue running on schedule.
Despite the pressure of the day, the 2 East staff remained friendly, courteous and caring. These are characteristics they routinely demonstrate and characteristics that PACU greatly appreciates. Thank you all for your professionalism, efficiency and "grace under fire".