HHE Emergency and critical care 2019 | Page 5

Hot or cold
Performance-based debriefing should be
conducted after sudden cardiac arrest. Debriefing
is a critical component for continuous quality
improvement (CQI) programs for resuscitation.
‘Hot’ debriefing is usually held very shortly
after the resuscitation event and is key to the CQI
process. Hot debriefing allows for quick review of
actions and interventions while recollections are
fresh. This quick, post-event review, conducted
with all team members still present when minor
details are still maintained, can immediately
influence future events.
‘Cold’ debriefing is most beneficial when
defibrillator and CPR data are available for review.
Cold debriefing allows for comprehensive data
availability, adequate time for the debrief review,
and valuable discussion time. Debriefing in this
group setting allows staff to discuss what
occurred and process events, as well as put
forward plans for improving protocols.
the stress of the code, capturing key data can be
challenging, resulting in inaccuracies due to:
• Illegible hand-written documentation via paper
and pen
• Misspelled words and incorrect medication doses
• Lack of experience – particularly if the
documenter is not ACLS-trained
• Varying documentation formats.
The ZOLL RescueNet CodeWriter documenter is
an easy-to-use application for mobile phones or
tablets that simplifies code data documentation.
Documentation events captured from CodeWriter
is merged with the defibrillator data to provide a
complete code record.
When used with CaseReview, Codewriter not
only captures essential code events, but also helps
ensure documentation accuracy with options
such as CPR timers, vitals, and key event buttons.
Simply launch the app and tap the Start New
Code button to get started.
CPR knowledge is CPR power
Many factors influence survival from sudden
cardiac arrest – co-morbidities such as heart
disease, renal insufficiencies, diabetes, and
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
are just some of the many factors.
Even when a code team performs at their
very best, there are factors that are too great
to overcome. Knowing where the team was
successful during the code and where there was
room for improvement leads to better care in
the future.
Simplified data documentation
Documenting a code requires immediate,
accurate recording of critical information. Under
In reference to performance-based
debriefing, the ERC Guidelines state:
Data-driven performance-
focused debriefing has been
shown to improve performance
of resuscitation teams. We highly
recommend their use for teams
managing patients in cardiac arrest
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HHE 2019 | hospitalhealthcare.com