ACTRITE: Acute Chest Triage Rapid Intervention Team

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate how the Acute Chest Triage Rapid Intervention Team (ACTRITE), of North Mersey Community (NHS) Trust, (NMCT) was developed and how it functions. Also demonstrated is a retrospective audit of 50 patients cared for by the team. The ACTRITE Service is a development between NMCT and Aintree Chest Centre. This service integrates primary and secondary care for patients with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The ACTRITE team is based in the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department of Fazakerley Hospital, UK. It is a team of nurses specializing in patients with COPD, supported by senior respiratory physicians. Patients who attend A&E with an exacerbation of their chest condition will be assessed by the team to determine if, with suitable medication, nursing and social support they might safely and preferably be cared for at home. The assessment will consider all aspects of the patient problem and the aim is to care for the patient holistically. If home care is deemed appropriate, ACTRITE will provide full support for the patient at home. This includes regular visits from the ACTRITE nurses, supported in the evening and overnight by the district nursing team.