5 Elements No Modern
Crash Cart Should Lack

Emergencies can happen anytime, and patients rely on doctors to quickly provide life-saving treatments. Fast access to the right supplies, tools, and medications is necessary. The crash cart is often the first place doctors turn when treating patients. A fully stocked, well-organized cart is a vital element inside any medical facility. Here are the top elements every modern crash cart needs:

1. Easy Access

A crash cart doesn’t do any good if medical professionals can’t reach it in a hurry. In a perfect world, there would be a cart in every hospital room. However, these devices are costly, and many clinics don’t have the discretionary budget to purchase more than one or two. That’s why crash carts need to be easy to maneuver. Look for a Crash Carts Supplier that offers carts made from polymer, which is both lightweight and durable. A steering system with locking casters is also ideal. Being able to quickly transport the device from one room to another reduces wait times and improves patient outcomes.

2. Custom Configuration

All crash carts serve a similar purpose, but some medical facilities require different supplies. For example, an emergency room may need defibrillators or intubation equipment in case the patient codes. On the other hand, a pediatric unit requires equipment and drugs suitable for smaller, younger patients. Hospitals need the ability to customize the setup of their crash cart to meet the needs of every patient. A well-designed cart should feature a variety of mounts, outlet strips, and platforms.

3. Organization

Crash carts hold countless supplies, from oxygen tanks to syringes, but a disorganized cart is a useless one. Medical facilities should regularly clean out and organize the device to ensure it’s well-stocked and ready for anything. Consider adding storage bins and labels to the cart to help staff find the supplies they need in a hurry. Drawer trays and dividers also ensure doctors can act quickly during an emergency. These organizational tools reduce errors and improve overall patient care. At the end of each shift, assign someone to restock depleted supplies and clean out excess clutter.

4. Multi-Person Access

When a patient codes, every second counts. Doctors and nurses can’t wait until someone else finishes using the crash cart before they retrieve critical supplies. The most effective setup allows for simultaneous access. For instance, one doctor may grab IV bags from one side while another utilizes endotracheal tubes from the other side. Adjustable trays and moving mounts make it easy to reach these supplies from all angles. Multi-person access ensures medical professionals provide life-saving treatment as quickly as possible.

5. Secure Access

Crash carts should be easily accessible; however, it’s crucial that only approved staff gains access. These devices often store a variety of prescription medications, including narcotics and other regulated drugs. Hospitals are liable if these supplies fall into the wrong hands. Make sure the crash cart has plenty of security features in place. A simple lock can prevent someone from stealing syringes. Security seals also clearly show if someone has tampered with the contents. More advanced carts rely on computer passwords or barcodes to gain entry. Auditing the supplies each day also helps prevent theft and reduces the risk of using expired products.

Be Prepared for Anything

Every medical facility can benefit from a modern crash cart, but these devices are not created equal. It’s essential to choose a model that meets your hospital’s specific needs. Not only will a well-designed crash cart improve staff response times, but it will also help save more lives.