Resuscitation Team Dynamics Flashcards
7 cards from real PALS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Resuscitation Team Dynamics flashcards as text
A new team member is unsure about their role during resuscitation. Who is PRIMARILY responsible for clarifying role assignments?
Answer: The team leader
The team leader is responsible for ensuring all team members understand their assigned roles before and during resuscitation.
Which of the following BEST describes the role of the 'recorder' during a PALS resuscitation?
Answer: Documenting times, interventions, medications, and rhythm changes
The recorder maintains a real-time written record of all events, times, medications, and interventions to support team decision-making.
During a resuscitation, a team member disagrees with the team leader's plan. What is the RECOMMENDED approach?
Answer: State the concern once clearly and respectfully, then follow the leader's decision if not a safety issue
PALS recommends voicing concerns respectfully one time; if overruled and safety is not immediately compromised, team members should follow the leader's direction.
What does 'workload distribution' mean in the context of PALS team dynamics?
Answer: Dividing responsibilities so no single member is overwhelmed
Workload distribution prevents cognitive overload and errors by ensuring tasks are spread appropriately among capable team members.
A team leader gives an ambiguous order: 'Give the usual dose.' What should the team member receiving the order do?
Answer: Ask for clarification of the specific dose before proceeding
Vague orders must be clarified before execution to prevent medication errors; closed-loop communication requires specific, confirmed instructions.
How does effective debriefing AFTER a resuscitation improve future team performance?
Answer: It identifies what went well and what can be improved without personal criticism
Post-event debriefing focuses on system and process improvement in a psychologically safe environment, which enhances future team performance.
Which scenario BEST illustrates a breakdown in 'shared mental model' during a pediatric resuscitation?
Answer: One team member prepares defibrillation while others are still performing CPR without a shockable rhythm identified
A shared mental model means all team members have the same understanding of the patient's status and care plan; conflicting actions indicate a breakdown.