Implementation of a unique RRT model in a tertiary care centre in Western Canada

In early 2010, the Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) was the only tertiary hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, without a rapid response team (RRT). Once funding was obtained, the RAH RRT was developed with the mission of "Helping you make it happen" with the underlying philosophy that any call is a good call and the team is there to support care on the wards. The RAH RRT is unique, as it uses a registered nurse/respiratory therapist model rather than the physician model used by most tertiary centres. The RAH RRT provides consistent and efficient response to deteriorating patients and visitors to the hospital. The RRT does not replace the attending team, rather the team supports them to provide improved patient care and to escalate care if required. Other major centres in Alberta have heard about the success of the RAH model and are moving toward a similar model.