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

Building Hospital Resilience in an Era of Extreme Weather

Expert Jennifer Mahan discusses the vulnerabilities healthcare facilities face during disasters and the infrastructure strategies that keep operations running.


Ennoble Care Falls Victim to Data Breach

Their investigation into the incident is still ongoing.


USDA Invests $73.8M to Aid in Livingston Hospital Expansion

Livingston Hospital will use the loan to modernize and construct a 56,000-square-foot addition to the hospital.


Why A Skilled Cleaning Staff Matters in Operating Rooms

Operating rooms are high-risk zones for infection due to invasive procedures and vulnerable patients, so competence in cleaning is critical.


General Leonard Wood Community Hospital Opening Date Set

The medical facility is designed to provide care to service members, retirees and their families.


 
 


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.