Tool: Call-Out

A call-out is a tool used to communicate important or critical information. Call-outs inform all team members simultaneously during situations. Critical information called out in these situations helps the team anticipate and prepare for vital next steps in patient care. They also benefit a recorder when present. One important aspect of a call-out is directing the information to a specific individual by name.

While call-outs are most common in hospital settings, they are also appropriate during medical emergencies in other settings. A long-term care resident may have fainted and fallen, and staff and family caregivers need to share information on the resident’s condition and what their next steps should be. Or a patient having wisdom teeth removed may have a strong adverse reaction to the sedation and require immediate attention by the dentist and their assistant.

Regardless of the context, the elements of a call-out are unchanged. It is essential to clearly call out key information so that others are aware of it. It is also important to anticipate the information needed and to share that information. Just as essential is careful listening. In particular, key information from the patient, family caregivers, or nonclinical staff may be discounted unless others work to ensure it is processed.

TeamSTEPPS: Call Out (Subacute Care) (47 seconds)

To better understand the value of call-outs and how to use them effectively, consider the following additional actions:

• Watch a video on call-outs in a long-term care setting: TeamSTEPPS: Call-Out (Subacute Care). Afterwards, consider:
  • How did the call-outs of the vital signs assist in the care of Mr. Larkin? 
    • The nurse manager could focus on her assessment and prepare for his transfer to the emergency department. 
    • Mr. Larkin's vital signs were accurately recorded in his medical record.
    • The team (including Mr. Larkin) could hear Mr. Larkin’s vitals in real time, keeping them informed of the changing situation and preparing them for any other needed interventions.

TeamSTEPPS: Call-Outs in Labor & Delivery (18 seconds)

• Watch a video on the use of a call-out in a labor and delivery setting (TeamSTEPPS: Call-Outs in Labor & Delivery). Afterwards, consider how the use of call-outs helped the team during an emergent event: 
  • How did the call-outs made by the nurse and intern aid the team during this emergent labor and delivery event?
    • Team members verbally confirmed critical information about the presence and duration of decelerations.
    • The team was anticipating future actions, including a possible C-section and call to the attending physician.
    • Information was directed by name to Dr. Dean for response and feedback.