What do you want your CNAs to do in a code?

sunnybabe · Jul 26, 2012

Grab supplies, grab a vitals machine, grab a blood sugar machine. Just grab everything and anything that's needed.

You could offer to do compressions if you're nearby and the scene is pretty clear(not too many people around or people are busy setting up equipment).

I'm a PCT and initiated a code. The only thing I would have done different was recording the vitals of the patient that was taken after he was resuscitated.

emtb2rn, BSN, RN, EMT-B · Jul 26, 2012

Compressions. Nobody does it better than an ER tech.

sbostonRN · Jul 26, 2012

Our hospital has a code team and there are 2 CNAs on the code team each day. They act as runners: bring the code cart, vitals machine, glucometer and anything else that's needed. They could also be a first responder and start CPR.

RNperdiem, RN · Jul 26, 2012

Turn on the overhead lights, and be prepared to run for supplies. If you know where the stepstool is, bring it in. CPR is easier when you have a stepstool to stand on.

tokmom, BSN, RN · Jul 26, 2012

Compressions and runners for stuff that is needed.

turnforthenurse, MSN, NP · Jul 26, 2012

Compressions. And runners. I find the CNAs tend to know where things are better than the RNs on our unit.

lalopop86 · Jul 27, 2012

Thanks so much for all of your responses!

Meriwhen, ASN, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 27, 2012

Ideally, the CNA will be assigned a role at the beginning of a shift--at least, that's how it's done in one of my facilities. At the start of the shift we are all given assigned roles for any and all types of codes that may come up.

Otherwise, the best way a CNA can be helpful in a code is to do WHATEVER the code leader asks of him/her. Vitals, compressions, crowd control, finding supplies, calling for additional help, staying with another patient that can't be left alone during this, whatever is needed. A code is not the time for a CNA (or anyone for that matter) to stamp their foot and pout "but that's not my job/patient!"