Plain language replacing color-coded alerts at some hospitals

Inconsistency of color-coded system led to confusion


Charlotte-area hospitals in Carolinas HealthCare System have switched from color codes to “plain language” for emergency alerts, according to an article on the Charlotte Observer.

The goal is to reduce errors and promote safety of hospital staff, patients and visitors by using common-sense language instead of color codes that might differ from hospital to hospital

For example, some hospitals used Code Grey to refer to “a serious weather event” while others used it to mean “a very high-risk security event.” 

Three codes can remain. They are: Code Red and Code Blue, which are widely recognized as alerts for a patient who requires resuscitation or immediate medical attention, and Code Pink for a child abduction.

Read the article.

 

 



February 1, 2016


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Designing for Caregiver-Centered Support Spaces

When healthcare environments are designed to meet the needs of caregivers and patients, everyone who relies on the system experiences better outcomes.


Novant Health Gets Approval for Wesley Chapel Medical Center

The 32-bed hospital will be located in Monroe and is expected to be completed in 2030.


Rocky Mountain Associated Physicians Falls Victim to Data Breach

On February 2, 2026, Rocky Mountain confirmed that certain patient information may have been compromised because of a data security incident. 


The Disconnect Between EVS and Clinical Teams

A recent study shows that EVS feels disconnected from the clinical community, leading to negative experiences. 


Nemours Children's Hospital Opens Institute for Maternal Fetal Health in Delaware

The Institute for Maternal Fetal Health represents a comprehensive approach to supporting expectant patients who receive a complex diagnosis during pregnancy.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.