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

Sustainability as a Baseline in Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals can balance costs, build resilience and learn from global models for sustainable design to further their green goals.


Penobscot Valley Hospital Reports Data Security Incident

It immediately implemented its incident response procedures, took steps to secure systems and hired third-party forensic specialists to assist with an investigation.


Ballad Health Acquires Land for Future Unicoi County Hospital

The new hospital is expected to feature an emergency department, 10 inpatient beds and outpatient services.


Why Healthcare Facilities Management Is Critical to Patient Safety 

Hospitals and other healthcare facilities rely on much more than doctors and nurses to keep patients safe.


Brookdale Senior Living Announces Acquisition of the Brookdale Galleria Community

The 244-unit independent living and assisted living community is located directly adjacent to The Galleria shopping and entertainment complex.


 
 


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.