Emergency Response Protocol Template for Geriatric Care Settings

1. Initial Assessment Protocol

Vital Signs Assessment

• Blood pressure (sitting and standing)
• Heart rate and rhythm
• Respiratory rate and pattern
• Temperature
• Oxygen saturation
• Mental status (using validated tool)

Immediate Safety Measures

• Clear immediate environment
• Position patient appropriately
• Ensure adequate lighting
• Call for assistance if needed

2. Emergency-Specific Protocols

Falls

1. Assess consciousness and vital signs
2. Check for injuries, focusing on:
   • Head trauma
   • Hip/pelvis
   • Upper extremities
3. Document circumstances
4. Implement post-fall protocol

Acute Confusion/Delirium

1. Rapid assessment for:
   • Infection
   • Medication effects
   • Metabolic disturbances
2. Secure environment
3. Notify family/caregiver

Chest Pain

1. Immediate ECG
2. Vital signs q5min
3. Oxygen therapy if indicated
4. Consider aspirin administration

3. Documentation Requirements

Essential Elements

• Time of incident
• Present symptoms
• Interventions performed
• Response to interventions
• Family notification
• Follow-up plan

4. Transfer Protocol

Emergency Department Transfer Checklist

• Current medication list
• Advance directives
• Recent lab results
• Baseline functional status
• Primary contact information

5. Quality Assurance

Review Process

• Incident documentation review
• Staff response evaluation
• Protocol compliance assessment
• Outcome analysis

6. Staff Training Requirements

Annual Competencies

• Basic Life Support
• Fall prevention/response
• Emergency equipment use
• Communication protocols