Factors associated with delayed rapid response team activation

Delayed activation of the rapid response team (RRT) is common and has been associated with adverse outcomes. However, little is known about the factors associated with delayed activation. This was an observational study from two hospitals in Ottawa, Canada, including adult inpatients with experiencing an activation of the RRT. Data was collected between May 1, 2012 and May 31, 2016 and groups were divided between those with activation within 1 h of meeting call criteria and those with >1 h (delayed activation). The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality. There were 6131 patients included in the study, of which 1441 (26.0%) experienced a delay. The reasons for RRT call were significantly different (P < 0.001) with respiratory distress (29.3% versus 24.8%), and hypotension (17.4% versus 13.2%) being more common in the delayed group, and dysrhythmias (15.9% versus 18.5%) and altered level of consciousness (13.5% versus 18.7%) being less common. RRT activation was more delayed on non-surgical services (P < 0.001). Delayed activation was associated with increased mortality (Adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.23, 95% CI 1.07-1.41), ICU admission (Adjusted OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.51-1.96), and hospital length of stay (13 versus 15 days, P < 0.001).