Remodeling the trauma bay to improve communication and patient care: a novel approach to trauma resuscitations

Abstract

Established roles and personal protective equipment are imperative to safely and effectively perform trauma resuscitations. Thus, we remodeled our trauma bay to achieve these goals. We supplied our level 1 trauma bay with color-coded floor signs and corresponding lead to denote the seven critical bedside trauma team members' roles/positions. We administered surveys to team members who experienced the transition to gather data on how the implementation of color-coded signs and lead aprons impacted trauma resuscitations. Prior to the implementation of color-coded floor signs, 48% agreed/strongly agreed that it was clear where members were supposed to stand, increasing to 90% after implementation. Before providing color-coded lead, 80% disagreed/strongly disagreed that trauma team members routinely wore lead. After providing the lead aprons, 76% agreed that members routinely wore lead, and 80% agreed/strongly agreed that having this lead helped reduce disruptions. Team members agreed that dedicated lead and floor signs improved resuscitation flow and patient care.

Keywords: Multiple Trauma; communication; education; resuscitation.

Figure 1. Schematic of the remodeled trauma bay. RN, registered nurse; RT, respiratory therapist.

Figure 2. Color-coded lead aprons with labeled trauma team member roles on the front.