1. Updated March 2006 D. Tucker, RPh, BCPS
Introduction to Pharmacist’s Guide to Participation in Code Blue Emergencies
Updated March D. Tucker, RPh, BCPS

2. Overview Why learn how to participate in code blue emergencies
Learning objectives
How to view the study guides on Concept Maps (Cmaps)
What order to view the study guides
When to take the mock code blue practical examination

3. Why Participate
Pharmacists have historically been involved in code blue emergency participation
As medications are often an integral part of a code blue emergency, pharmacist involvement is inherent
Pharmacist’s knowledge of medications and drip rates contribute to the success of code blue emergencies

4. Learning Objectives
To interpret ECG waveforms and list the medications needed to correct them during a code blue emergency
To distinguish the medications and their order needed via algorithm in a code blue emergency
To demonstrate the ability to assemble a medication syringe
To understand and be able to explain what the function is of a pharmacist during a code blue emergency
To identify non-medication components of a crash cart and their uses

5. Why Use Concept Maps Way to organize knowledge
Multiple people may utilize at one time
Allows knowledge or training to be contained in one location

6. Concept Map

7. How to View Concept Maps
Left click once on square at the bottom, center of selected concept
A drop down list appears below the concept
Select option and left click one time
Selections will variably include PDF, PowerPoint, films, or web site options
Choice can be read on line or printed for later review

8. Drop Down Menu

9. What Order
The sections can be reviewed in any order though the practical examination is meant to be completed at the end
A recommended order of review is
Code blue procedures
Code blue equipment
Overview of ACLS algorithms
Practical examination

10. Time to Learn
This program is expected to take the participant anywhere from hours to complete
2 videos covering the ACLS algorithms and pharmacist procedures as well as crash cart components are available from Krista Wahby
They can each be checked out for 3 days at a time
The training website is available 24 hours a day for both learning and review

11. Where to Locate Syringes
“Practice makes perfect”
See Krista Wahby, Rob Simpson, or Dale Tucker to obtain outdated syringes to practice with
Practice may be done also in the IV lab when making a sodium bicarbonate drip

12. When to Take Practical Exam
Contact Krista Wahby, Rob Simpson, or Dale Tucker and make an appointment for them to sign off on your practical
Best times are often directly before or after the start of your shift or at break time
The time needed to take the examination should be no more than 10 minutes