Original ArticleThe Effect of Numbered Jerseys on Directed Commands, Teamwork, and Clinical Performance During Simulated EmergenciesKim, Yekaterina; Dym, Akiva A.; Yang, Karen; Fein, Daniel G.; Bangar, Maneesha; Ferenchick, Hannah R. B.; Keene, Adam; Orsi, Deborah; Washington, Moses A.; Eisen, Lewis A.Author Information For more information on this article, contact Karen Yang at [email protected]. The authors declare no conflicts of interest. Journal for Healthcare Quality: January/February 2021 - Volume 43 - Issue 1 - p 24-31 doi: 10.1097/JHQ.0000000000000264 Buy Metrics Abstract Communication and teamwork are essential during inpatient emergencies such as cardiac arrest and rapid response (RR) codes. We investigated whether wearing numbered jerseys affect directed commands, teamwork, and performance during simulated codes. Eight teams of 6 residents participated in 64 simulations. Four teams were randomized to the experimental group wearing numbered jerseys, and four to the control group wearing work attire. The experimental group used more directed commands (49% vs. 31%, p < .001) and had higher teamwork score (25 vs. 18, p < .001) compared with control group. There was no difference in time to initiation of chest compression, bag-valve-mask ventilation, and correct medications. Time to defibrillation was longer in the experimental group (190 vs. 140 seconds, p = .035). Using numbered jerseys during simulations was associated with increased use of directed commands and better teamwork. Time to performance of clinical actions was similar except for longer time to defibrillation in the jersey group. © 2020 National Association for Healthcare Quality
