The Term "CODE"

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I am confused about the term CODE.

I have heard it used as someone has a full code..which means

they are supposed to be given CPR.

I have also heard "he coded" ...meaning he flatlined.

So, I am confused...are there TWO meanings for the term code?

(i am not a nurse...YET)

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Specializes in ICU, PACU, Cath Lab.

Well not really...I mean you cannot do one without the other...I mean you cannot Code someone...who has not coded..I think of it more like a verb and a noun of the same word. BTW..you can have different kinds of codes...they do not always flatline...or go asystolic. You can have a resp. code..or V-tach. But you will definately learn more about this through school. This all makes sense in my head..but I appologize if it does not make sense to anyone else!!

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Specializes in Staff Dev--Critical Care & Trauma.

Code, to (v):


    1. a patient stops life-sustaining activity; cardiac or respiratory arrest
    2. to engage in life-saving activity; CPR, rescue breathing, ACLS protocol

Code (n): An alert to notify a life-saving team of a critical situation ("Code Blue")

Out of curiosity, anyone hear the rumor that JCHAO is working to standardize all codes throught US hospitals. In other words, all hospitals will be required to use the same terminology/page for CPRs, rapid response teams, disaster pages, etc.

I don't know if it's true, but it seems to be the talk around here from those who deal with that sort of thing.

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Supposedly they were going to standardize codes in 2002 after 9/11. I guess they never did get around to it.

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out of curiosity, anyone hear the rumor that jchao is working to standardize all codes throught us hospitals. in other words, all hospitals will be required to use the same terminology/page for cprs, rapid response teams, disaster pages, etc.

i can only hope this to be true. code 99 in x facility, code blue in y facility and code 5 in z facility. how can that possibly not cause confusion. i will actively support any organization that attempts to standardize healthcare terminology.

omg, did i just state that i would support jchao? :chuckle

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Specializes in Staff Dev--Critical Care & Trauma.

omg, did i just state that i would support jchao? :chuckle

get that girl a neuro check stat!

i would agree with standardizing. after all, with the increase in worker mobility, it will only make things easier.

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