The Family Birth Center Critical Events Training Team (CETT) has played a vital role in maternal and newborn safety since its launch in 2012. In alignment with the 2021 Joint Commission Maternal Safety Standards, CETT has sharpened its focus on early recognition, rapid intervention, and coordinated response to two leading causes of pregnancy-related mortality: maternal hemorrhage and severe hypertension/preeclampsia.

CETT is a nurse-led, multidisciplinary program anchored by staff from Labor & Delivery, NICU, Postpartum, Nursing Professional Development Specialist (NPDS), midwife, CRNA and unit assistants. Twice a year, the CETT team organizes two full days of immersive, hands-on training for the entire perinatal care spectrum. Participants include obstetricians, midwives, pediatricians, family medicine physicians and residents, the anesthesia team, OB techs, respiratory therapists, pharmacy, blood bank, and lab.

The trainings include real-time simulations, structured emergency drills, and team debriefs, supporting Joint Commission requirements for role-specific maternal safety education and annual response practice. CETT aims to improve preparedness for both experienced and new nurses and healthcare team members, enhancing clinical skills, teamwork, communication, and situational awareness during high-risk events.

What our nurses say about CETT

“I joined CETT because I wanted to be part of a team that makes a difference—educating our staff, emphasizing safety, and helping prevent bad outcomes.”
— Vanessa Carrasco, RN,  L&D Staff Nurse III

“Every CETT, I learn something new.”
— Dorothy Kirkland, RN, L&D

“They’re fun and realistic. We use real equipment in real-time scenarios. Learning closed-loop communication and delegation was extremely helpful—especially in emergencies when things can get hectic.”
— Elisse Martinez, RN