Survey on Color-Coded Alert System Standardization

VHCA (4/30/2010)

It’s been a little over a year since Virginia launched the patient safety color-coded alert system standardization initiative.  Initially hospitals and nursing homes were included in the initiative; however, as word spread, others have joined the initiative including home health agencies and the Naval Medical Center in Norfolk.  Virginia followed the national trend and continues to focus on three standardized alerts – red = allergy; purple = DNR and yellow = fall risk.

In the initial launch period, many participants believed it would take up to a year to implement standardization.  To gauge the status of statewide implementation and how best to move forward, the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association is seeking assistance from our members by asking them to complete a brief survey.  A response by May 8 is appreciated.

Please contact Sheila Gray, Assistant Vice President, Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association or by phone 804.965.1212 with any questions about the initiative or the survey.