RT Driven Protocols

Ideally, according to Egan, a protocol would work like this:

1. Therapy can be adjusted more frequently in response to changes in patient status.
2. Physicians can still be contacted for major changes, but not minor adjustments, thus reducing nuisance calls.
3. Consistency of therapy can be maintained and nonpulmonary physicians can use appropriate up-to-date methods by simply requesting that protocol therapy be used.
4. RCPs become actively involved in achieving good patient outcomes instead of performing rigid tasks. This enhanced responsibility attracts and retains better educated qualified practitioners.

It's not so cut and dry in the real world. Here's my take on protocols:

• Here's why we don't have protocols
• A good feeling for a humble RT
• The five levels of a good ventilator protocol
• Protocols
• Ventilator protocol: Setting up pt. on ventilator; and some information about EtCO2 monitoring
• ALI, ARDS Ventilator Strategy
• Ventilator extubation Protocol
• More money wasted in the ER
• Seeking RT Consult or tx protocol information
• The ideal ER treatment protocol
• New Vent protocol biproduct of teamwork
• Keystone Project to improve patient outcomes
• The RT Cave is living 20 years in the past
• Need STAT reform STAT
• I'm smart enough to manage BiPap
• The reality of small town hospitals
• I will never be content to be a button pusher