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

CRAB Alert: The EVS Role in Preventing Infection

CRAB is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes bloodstream infections, ventilator-associated pneumonia, surgical wound infections and meningitis in hospitalized patients.


Why Hospital Waiting Rooms Aren't Going Away

Despite advances in technology, thoughtfully designed reception spaces continue to evolve.


Ground Broken on Mount Sinai Tisch Cancer Hospital

The hospital is aiming to open in 2030 on Mount Sinai’s Upper East Side campus.


Design, Compartmentation, Training: How Defend-in-Place Strategies Can Protect Patients

Effective defend-in-place strategies depend on compartmentation, fire-rated assemblies and ongoing staff training to protect patients who cannot quickly evacuate.


Milestone Marked with Topping Out Ceremony for BayCare Hospital Manatee

Construction remains on schedule, with crews continuing work on interior spaces, infrastructure and clinical areas throughout the facility.


 
 


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.