The critical response nurse role: An innovative solution for providing skilled trauma nurses

Critically injured patients benefit from the care of experienced, knowledgeable nurses. The state of Oregon addressed this need by requiring nurses to be a component of the trauma resuscitation team in trauma centers throughout the state. A description of how one level I trauma center created a unique position that would ensure that properly trained nurses were available for trauma patients is presented. The process of developing the position and the progress that the nurses have made is discussed. (Int J Trauma Nurs 2001;7:3-7).