A Rapid Response Team is a group of nurses, respiratory therapists or doctors who are trained to help when there are signs that a patient is getting much sicker. The purpose of a rapid response team is to help before there is a medical emergency such as a heart attack.

Rapid response teams take action very quickly when something goes wrong. They may suggest laboratory tests, X-rays, medications, or even moving the patient to an intensive care unit. These actions can help patients get better and live longer.

Patients and/or family members should notify the nurse or doctors if they feel there are signs that the patient is getting sicker. If further response is needed, the patient/family may call the operator by dialing “0” and asking him/her to call the Rapid Response Team.