Rapid Response Systems: Do They Improve Outcomes?

During the past 5 years, published studies about rapid response systems (RRSs; standard criteria used to summon caregiver teams to unstable hospital ward patients who are not in full cardiopulmonary arrest; such teams also are known as rapid response teams or medical emergency teams) have led to the establishment of such systems in many hospitals. RRSs now are highly encouraged or required by national quality improvement agencies and hospital accreditation authorities. But do they improve patient outcomes?

In this meta-analysis, investigators reviewed the available evidence on the effects of RRSs on patient outcomes. Among more than 850 published and unpublished studies that met search criteria, 13 trials met all inclusion criteria and conta…