Journal of vascular nursing : official publication of the Society for Peripheral Vascular Nursing
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The majority of in-hospital cardiac arrests are preceded by observable indicators of deterioration within hours of the event. It is generally accepted that cardiac arrest occurs in response to cardiac arrhythmias, hypotension, and acute respiratory changes. Numerous research studies support that early recognition and prompt treatment of the early indicators of these conditions are associated with improved clinical outcomes and reduced mortality. ⋯ Health care quality initiatives, such as the 100,000 Lives Campaign and Preventing 5 Million Lives from Harm, advocate the use of rapid response teams in acute care facilities as a method to facilitate early recognition and management of patients at risk for cardiac arrest. One year after the implementation of a rapid response team at our academic tertiary care facility, the incidence of code blue events outside of the intensive care unit was reduced by 9% and overall mortality was reduced by 0.12%. This article will discuss the experience of developing, implementing, and evaluating outcomes associated with a rapid response team using a nurse-to-nurse consult approach.
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The symptoms that result from compression of the superior vena cava are known as superior vena cava syndrome. The syndrome was originally described as secondary to infection such as tuberculosis or syphilitic aortic aneurysm. Currently, the origin is generally cancer or thrombotic events. ⋯ With carcinoma or infection, specific drugs or radiation may be used. In cases of compression, dilation and stenting of the superior vena cava may be performed. In some cases a bypass of the superior vena cava may be indicated.