ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To outline the process and thoroughly discuss the methods used to transition from an external rapid response team to an internal rapid response team. METHODS: The medical complexities of the patient population at Kennedy Krieger Institute, coupled with a retrospective data review of past "code calls," revealed a rapid response team was essential. The anticipated loss of the current external rapid response team indicated that an alternative solution would need to be designed. Over a 2-year period, an internal medical response team was developed and implemented to address the potential medical emergency needs of our acute care rehabilitation patients. RESULTS: The outcome from all "code calls" since the implementation of the internal rapid response team has been markedly positive. DISCUSSION: Comprehensive planning involving many team members, detailed communication with external resources, and extensive education resulted in a seamless transition from an external rapid response team to an internal response team. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Freestanding rehabilitation centers do not have the in-house rapid response team resources that an acute care hospital utilizes to address potential medical emergencies. The development and implementation of an internal rapid response team can meet these needs.
