Pediatric Rapid Response Team (RRT) — Information for Families
Pediatric Rapid Response Team (RRT) — Information for Families
If needed, the Pediatric RRT would be called when your child is staying in
a regular hospital room, like this one.
In the hospital, doctors and nurses do their best to help children stay healthy and safe. But sometimes, a child can suddenly get sicker and need help fast. That’s when the Pediatric Rapid Response Team (RRT) steps in to give extra care right away.
The Pediatric RRT is a special group of doctors, nurses, and other medical experts who are ready to respond. They are trained to move fast and give the best care possible. It’s kind of like calling 911, but inside the hospital. The team usually gets to the child’s room within 15 minutes of being called. Their goal is to keep kids safe and make sure they get help as fast as possible.
Anyone—such as nurses, doctors, or even family members—can call the Pediatric RRT if they’re worried about a child’s breathing, heartbeat, or overall condition. The team brings special tools and skills right to the child’s room so they can help right away, instead of waiting for things to get worse. If you ever feel like something is wrong with your child, don’t be scared to say something—we’re here to help!
Learn about who is on the Pediatric RRT
What to Do During an RRT Event
During an RRT event, here’s what you can do as a parent:
- Speak up – If you saw changes in your child that led to the RRT call, tell the team. Your information can help.
- Stay nearby if you can – The team might ask you to step back so they have room to help your child, but they will keep you updated.
- Ask questions – If you don’t understand what’s happening, it’s okay to ask. We want you to feel informed.
- Comfort your child – Hearing your voice and knowing you’re there can help your child feel more calm during a scary time.
Everyone on the team has an important job to keep your child safe and help them feel better. If you have any questions, just ask—we’re here to help!
Why the RRT is Called
The Pediatric RRT is called when a child starts showing signs that they might be getting a lot sicker and need help right away. The goal is to give care quickly and stop an emergency from happening.
Sometimes your child’s bedside nurse is the right person to help. Other times, the Pediatric RRT might be needed. Nurses will collaborate with you to make sure your child gets the care they need.
Here are some examples:
| No need for the Pediatric RRT – Communicate with your bedside nurse | Pediatric RRT is needed | |
|---|---|---|
| Pain | Your child is in pain and has an “as-needed” pain medicine. You can ask your nurse to give your child more medicine. | Your child is still in severe pain after taking all available medicine. Please ask your nurse or unit secretary to call an RRT. |
| Oxygen level | Your child’s oxygen level is dropping and the monitor is alarming. You should ask your nurse to see your child. Your nurse will explain what to look for and will watch the monitor outside of the room carefully. | Your child is on oxygen and you have seen a change in their condition, even with more oxygen being given. Or, you have a gut feeling that something isn’t right. Ask your nurse or unit secretary to call an RRT. |
After a Pediatric RRT response, your child may remain in the same room with more care and treatments. Other times, your child may need closer monitoring. In that case, they will be transferred to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU).
The reasons your child may need the PICU:
- Frequent monitoring or lab testing every hour
- More help with breathing or oxygen levels
- Certain IV medicines that require frequent monitoring
Pediatric Critical Care
Patient and Family Relations Office
If you have comments, questions, or concerns about your child’s care, please contact our Patient and Family Relations office.