PALS Provider: Course
Team Roles in PALS
Effective resuscitation requires a well-coordinated team, where each member has a clearly defined role and communicates efficiently. Rapid role assignment and structured collaboration significantly improve outcomes in pediatric emergencies.
Key Goals of an Effective Resuscitation Team
- Clear leadership and role delegation
- Closed-loop communication to prevent errors
- Effective collaboration and mutual support
- Continuous assessment and adjustment based on patient response
Primary Team Roles in PALS Resuscitation
| Role | Primary Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Team Leader | Directs resuscitation, assigns roles, makes treatment decisions. |
| Airway Manager | Manages airway using BVM, intubation, or supraglottic airway. |
| Compressor | Provides high-quality chest compressions and rotates every 2 minutes. |
| Defibrillator Operator | Attaches leads, analyzes rhythm, delivers shocks or pacing. |
| Medication Administrator | Prepares/administers drugs and ensures correct timing and doses. |
| Recorder | Documents interventions, medication times, and patient responses. |
Detailed Breakdown of Each Role
Team Leader
- Coordinates the entire resuscitation effort
- Makes clinical decisions and gives clear commands
- Ensures closed-loop communication and role adherence
Airway Manager
- Provides bag-mask ventilation and advanced airway support
- Monitors ventilation using capnography and chest rise
Compressor
- Performs compressions at 100–120/min with full recoil
- Rotates every 2 minutes to prevent fatigue
Defibrillator Operator
- Prepares and delivers defibrillation/cardioversion safely
- Confirms clear communication before delivering shocks
Medication Administrator
- Draws up and administers meds using weight-based dosing
- Announces drug name, dose, and route clearly to the team
Recorder
- Tracks times of compressions, meds, and shocks
- Provides real-time reminders for next steps
Closed-Loop Communication
- Leader gives clear order: “Give 0.01 mg/kg epinephrine IV.”
- Team member repeats: “Giving 0.01 mg/kg epinephrine IV now.”
- Leader confirms: “Thank you, notify me once it’s in.”
Team Dynamics: Keys to Success
- Assign roles immediately at the start of resuscitation
- Encourage clear, confident communication
- Switch compressors every 2 minutes
- Support each other and call out safety concerns
- Debrief post-code to improve future performance
Common Pitfalls and Prevention
| Mistake | Consequence | How to Prevent |
|---|---|---|
| Unclear leadership | Delayed actions and confusion | Assign a leader immediately |
| Poor communication | Missed doses or missteps | Use closed-loop technique |
| Interruptions during CPR | Reduces perfusion and outcomes | Minimize pauses; rotate roles |
| Medication delays | Worsened survival | Use a dedicated recorder |
Final Takeaways
- Resuscitation success depends on clearly defined roles and strong leadership
- Communication should be structured, with every task confirmed and acknowledged
- Debriefing after every code improves team cohesion and future outcomes