No Pass Zone
What does “No Pass Zone” mean in patient care?
Never walk past a call bell without responding.
Where is the call bell escalation pathway model response model used?
Acute Care, Critical Care, Women’s & Children’s, Rehab, Emergency Department.
Why is setting expectations important when responding to a call bell?
It helps reduce anxiety and builds trust.
A patient asks for a blanket. Who responds?
AA/PSA.
What’s one respectful way to respond to a call bell?
Greet the patient by name and ask how you can help.
You see a call bell on while delivering meds to another room. What should you do?
Acknowledge the call and ensure someone responds.
Why is a team-based approach to call bell response important?
To improve responsiveness and provide timely, safe patient care.
What’s a good phrase to use when you can’t meet a request immediately?
“I’ll be back in 10 minutes with your nurse.”
A patient needs help walking to the bathroom. Who responds?
PCA/CCT, with buddy backup.
A patient is upset about a delay. How do you respond respectfully?
Acknowledge their concern, apologize, and explain the next steps.
Why is the “No Pass Zone” important for patient safety?
It ensures timely responses and prevents missed care.
Who handles non-clinical needs like water or blankets?
AA/PSA (Administrative Assistant/Patient Support Associate).
How can you set expectations for pain management?
Explain when the next dose is due and what to expect.
A patient presses the bell for pain meds. RN is busy. What happens next?
Buddy RN responds to ensure timely care.
How does the buddy system support respectful care?
Ensures no patient is left waiting, even if the primary responder is unavailable.
What’s a respectful way to tell a patient you’ll get help?
“I’ll let your nurse know right away and stay with you until they arrive.”
A patient needs help with toileting. Who responds first, and who is the backup?
PCA/CCT responds first; buddy is the backup.
What should you do if a patient keeps calling for updates?
Provide clear, honest updates and involve the care team.
A patient calls for food assistance. Who handles it?
PCA/CCT or AA/PSA depending on the need.
What’s a respectful way to redirect a request to another role?
“I’ll let your nurse know right away and follow up to make sure it’s addressed.”
What should you do if you can’t help the patient directly?
Notify the appropriate staff member immediately and follow up.
A patient presses the call bell for pain medication. Who should respond, and what’s the escalation path?
RN responds; buddy RN is the backup if unavailable.
How do you confirm expectations were met?
Close the communication loop by checking back with the patient.
A patient says, “No one ever answers my bell.” What do you do?
Apologize, investigate, ensure loop closure, and escalate if needed.
How does respectful communication impact patient outcomes?
It improves satisfaction, trust, and overall care experience.