94 Unit 1 Introduction to Healthcare Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Hospital Emergency Codes Hospital emergency codes are used in hospitals to alert healthcare workers to various emergencies. These codes quickly convey essential infor- mation while preventing stress and panic among patients and visitors to the hospital. Some hospitals are phasing out codes because they can lead to confusion due to the variation of codes among different facilities. Efforts have been made to establish uniform codes throughout the United States. All healthcare facility employees must know the meanings of their facil- ity’s various codes. Some facilities print the codes on the back of workers’ ID badges to avoid confusion and serve as quick reference. Some frequently used hospital emergency codes are • Code Red—fi re in the facility • Code Blue—cardiac arrest • Code Pink—infant or child abduction • Code Orange—hazardous materials spill • Code Silver—dangerous person with a weapon and • Code Black—bomb threat. When codes are announced, the location of the emergency is identifi ed as well. An example of this is, “Code Blue, Cardiac Care Unit.” When the danger is over, there will be an “all clear” announcement. Disaster Preparedness in the Healthcare Facility A disaster is any sudden event that brings great damage, loss, or destruction. Individuals in the healthcare profession must be prepared for unexpected events due to terrorism, catastrophic accidents, earthquakes, explosions, fi res, tornadoes, hurricanes, and gun violence. In the event of a disaster, you will most likely fi nd yourself working alongside police, fi re- fi ghters, and emergency medical personnel. Healthcare facilities are required to develop and implement plans for dealing with disasters. The facility in which you work will also have disaster drills. When you are hired, you will be given instructions for how to handle a disaster and what your specifi c role will be in those situations. These instructions may include procedures for evacuating patients, recognizing evacuation routes, and working as part of a team in emergency situations. Many communities offer CERT programs (Community Emergency Response Training). CERT educates individuals about disaster preparedness for hazards that may impact their area. CERT also trains workers in basic disaster response skills, such as fi re safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. During a disaster, you must act in a professional manner, remain calm, and carry out your assigned task without complaint. Always obey directions given by your supervisor. Safety in the Science Laboratory As part of your education to become a healthcare worker, you will probably take several science courses. Science courses often include labs. hospital emergency codes signals used in hospitals to alert staff to various emergencies examples include Code Red (fi re) and Code Blue (cardiac arrest)