[lovelylpn]

I used to be very anxious when responding to codes or RRT calls also, but I actually like them now. I tend to work well under pressure, so I love situations where you have to think quick and act quick...not that I love seeing people become severely ill or come close to death. I just really enjoy ICU nursing and exciting situations. Like someone else said, though, when its not your emergence/patient, it is a lot easier to focus on what needs to be done. When it is my patient, I'm actually thinking too much about documenting everything and getting things done as quick as possible. Oddly enough, I do better in other people's emergencies.

[Chisca]

Airway, breathing, circulation. ACLS should prepare you and just make sure you know your algorithms. PRACTICE will reduce your anxiety level and after a few codes you will realize you see the same stuff over and over. Good luck.

[NIGHTRIDER]

Don't Be Afraid To Clear The Room. Tell Everyone In A Clear Respectfull Voice: Anyone Not Directly Involved In This Code Please Clear The Room So We Can Work. Then Do What You Need To Do. The Patients Nurse Should Be There To Fill In Any Questions You Might Have. Don't Be Afraid To Give A Young Intern Advice Most Of The Time They Welcome Your Input.

[lorilou22RN]

This will pass. I love responding to codes, or doing the Rapid Response Team (when patients are crumping). Pretty soon codes are the best part of nursing (how sick is that!). Now my stomach gets in knots, when I have to coordinate staffing for a 40 bed Level 1 and Level 2 ICU.

[optimus_prime]

in my work settings... we will initiate the code and while waiting for the team to arrive (Team consist of consultant - anyone who is around... too bad if happen during night shift... have to wait for the in-charge consultant..., medical officer, administrator or unit manager, pharmacist, anaest, ICU/CCU nurse)we have to do our level best.... Eventhough I've handled many many code blue.... but the thrilled feeling will always be there...

especially when the doctor is not arrived yet... i had one experience whereby the pt was in VT-VF... the family was in the room.. but waiting for the crash cart to be pushed in was like taking an ages... i've no choice except to give a precordial thump which was being misunderstood by the family member.... dealing with the family who refused to wait outside is nerve-recking during this situation... as we have to keep calm (eventhough we're not.... most of the times)...

[squirlkeeperCCRN]

Chica,
Going from Oncology focus being on comfort most of the time, to ICU life saving no matter what mentality is very anxiety producing. I know because I took the same route that you did (Oncology for 12 years, ICU for almost 8). I remember the feeling when I started doing resource and went to all of the codes and traumas. Very scarey at first but it is as easy as ABC...seriously make this your mantra and follow it and you will do well. Also remember you will not save everyone, it is not possible. More experience will make you more confident. Hope this helps.