The editors of the Textbook of Rapid Response Systems have previously authored work describing medical emergency teams. This book identifies the vast amount of change and knowledge that has accumulated regarding early recognition of patient problems and the use of rapid response systems (RRSs) in multiple settings around the world over the past 4 years.
The book is divided into 3 sections. Part 1 addresses RRSs and Patient Safety, including the history of rapid response, integration within the larger health care system, and issues that lead to the development of this type of program. Part 2 provides the foundation for developing an RRS, including nurse- and/or physician-led teams. Additional information in this section addresses the variations of teams such as the pediatric RRS and the Sepsis Response Team. An important section in Part 2 is a chapter entitled “The Second Victim,” which recognizes and addresses the issues of care providers...