What experience do you have responding to a patient who has gone into cardiac or respiratory arrest?

"I have not had real-life experience responding to this type of event; however, as a student, we practised this scenario several times. I understand my role will be to jump in and take action until the appropriate team arrives, whether with CPR, getting the emergency cart, using the defibrillator, or starting IV fluids and medications. I know it will be very high-pressure and stressful, but I feel well-prepared to respond should this happen."

"I have responded to a handful of these types of situations over the years. In one case, I was actually in the patient's room. I called for help, then dropped the head of the bed to lay the patient flat, checked and confirmed there was no pulse, and immediately began chest compressions. By that time, another nurse had brought in the emergency cart or the "crash cart," and a physician was in the room and deployed the AED/defibrillator. The designated critical team responds quickly and takes over; then it's my responsibility to be sure I document everything appropriately once the patient is stabilized or transferred."