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

The OR HVAC Puzzle: Why Individual Systems Are on the Rise

Extra penetrations, tight clearances and strict humidity needs—design experts explain what it really takes to plan dedicated units for each operating room.


Sutter Health Announces Plans for New Santa Clara Medical Center

Sutter projects the medical center will open in late 2031.


Sanford Health Receives $300M Gift for Black Hills Medical Center Campus

Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027 with completion expected by 2030.


Wanted: Scientific Standard for Hospital Cleaning

No accepted criteria exist for defining a surface as clean using microbiologic methods.


NLCS Strengthens Safety and Compliance with Comprehensive Electrical Program

Case study: A renewed partnership with Siemens helps the senior living provider meet NFPA 70B standards, reduce risk, and enhance reliability across its communities.


 
 


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.