Kathryn Sobocinski
Title: Trauma Response Nurse: Bringing critical care experience and continuity to early trauma care
Biography:
Katie has been a surgical critical care nurse for 13 years. She has extensive trauma experience, and is both a Trauma Certified Registered Nurse and Critical Care Registered Nurse. She was integral in the development and continued growth of the Trauma Response Nurse position. She is actively involved in the Stop the Bleed campaign, and has taught courses throughout New York City.
Abstract:
Problem Statement: Trauma patients often present with multiple complex injuries and can benefit significantly from specialized, multidisciplinary care. Prior to mid-2016, the trauma team activation response at this hospital did not include a surgical intensive care unit (SICU) nurse. As the value of bringing this expertise to the patient upon arrival was realized, the role of the Trauma Response Nurse (TRN) was developed to meet this need.
Implementation: The TRN role was designed to provide a dedicated SICU nurse to care for trauma patients from ED arrival through disposition. The integration of the TRN role into the trauma activation response sought to improve quality and safety of care, facilitate communication and collaboration between the trauma and ED clinicians, and enhance continuity of care.
The primary responsibilities of the TRN were to respond to the ED to assist with clinical interventions, transport patients from the ED to tests and procedures, and assume care of the patient through disposition. Additional TRN duties included education, community outreach and performance improvement.
Discussion: TRNs now respond to all trauma activations that occur Monday-Friday (day shift). Implementation of the TRN role has improved collaboration between nursing disciplines, improved the overall function of the trauma team, and enhanced the safety of trauma patients during TRN transport. The TRNs have made valuable contributions to education and outreach missions of the trauma program, and ensure that patients at this hospital are receiving the highest level of trauma care.