ECMO Safety Checklist

2016-10-13T18:16:18-05:00May 6th, 2015|ECMO, Safety|

Detailed ECMO safety checklist to be performed at every shift change for nurses, perfusionists, and physicians. Includes data review and bedside equipment inspection.

Prone Positioning Tips and Checklist

2016-10-13T18:16:21-05:00April 15th, 2015|Pulmonary, Safety, Stabilization|

Prone positioning in ARDS can improve lung compliance and ventilation-perfusion matching which improve oxygenation and may have a mortality benefit. It requires significant effort and staff coordination to perform safely and efficiently. In this article we include tips for preparation, and a detailed checklist for performing proning efficiently and safety.

Dantrolene for Malignant Hyperthermia

2016-10-13T18:16:21-05:00April 6th, 2015|Pharmacology, Safety, Toxicology|

Malignant hyperthermia is a life-threatening reaction to volatile anesthetics and the neuromuscular blocking agent succinylcholine, which results in high body temperatures. Dantrolene counters the reaction by blocking the release of calcium from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, and reducing the intracellular calcium.

Rapid Sequence Intubation Checklist

2016-10-13T18:16:37-05:00April 18th, 2013|Airway, Safety|

HCMC has created a rapid sequence intubation (RSI) checklist, and printed it in large poster format. It is hung above our airway cart in the stabilization bay. This is organized around the 'P's. There are more detailed considerations under each heading to the right as well. This checklist is designed to be a quick visual reference during RSI to remind you to plan, position, pre-oxygenate (and provide apneic oxygenation with nasal cannula), and be deliberate with your preparation and decision-making. Most importantly, it includes post-intubation steps, that can often be overlooked as the team moves on to other resuscitation steps after securing the airway.