code

(kōd )

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[Fr. code, fr. L. codex, book]

1. A collection of rules and regulations or specifications.
2. A set of symbols that communicate information to people who understand them or conceal it from those who do not.
3. A form of message used in transmitting information in a hospital, esp. when the information is broadcast over a public address system. For instance, “code blue” or “code 9” could indicate a particular type of emergency to an emergency care team. SEE TABLE: Hospital Emergency Codes; SEE: code cart; SEE: code drug
4. A system of symbols that represents information contained in a computer data bank.
Hospital Emergency Codes
Type of EmergencyCommonly Used Hospital Paging TerminologiesServices Needed
Adult needing life supportCode Blue; Code 99Advanced cardiac life support
Bioterrorism alertCode ZebraTreat as Mass Casualty Incident; notify Department of Homeland Security and State Health Department
Bomb threatCode Black; Code Yellow; Code 10Evacuation of building; security staff; local police and fire departments
Doctor needed urgentlyCode GreenPresence of available medical staff—often, Emergency Department or Intensive Care Unit physicians
Fire in the facilityCode RedAvailable maintenance and security staff; fire extinguishers
Infant abductionCode Stork (Sometimes called Code Pink, but see below)Blockade of all entries to and exits from the hospital
Infant requiring life supportCode PinkPractitioners trained in neonatal or pediatric life support
Multiple Casualty IncidentCode Triage; Code AmberAll available personnel to assist in triaging and treating the sick and wounded; hospital-wide emergency strategies implemented
Potentially violent person on premisesCode Strong; Doctor Strong; Code Grey; Code Silver; Code NorthShow of force by security personnel and others; hospital supervisor

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