Code Blue is a technical, jargon term for medical emergencies in the United States. An alternate term is Code 99. Sometimes, medical professionals will abbreviate code blue to simply "code."

Most healthcare facilities utilize a system of codes to represent the presence of an emergency or disaster. These codes are most commonly signified by a color or number. Code blue is often used to represent a real or suspected imminent loss of life — the patient has stopped breathing and their heart has stopped beating. CPR should be initiated immediately. The Advanced Cardiac Life Support protocol described by the American Red Cross should be initiated as soon as medical personnel, trained in its use, are on the scene. ACLS involves securing the airway with an endotracheal tube to provide airflow directly to the lungs, as well as assessment of the need of cardiac interventions, injection of appropriate medications and defibrillation ("shock") of the heart when indicated.

External links

• Codes Listing, Texas Tech University Health Services Center (pdf)

Hospitals | Medical terms