Because of HIPAA (Health Information Portability and Accountability Act ) laws, members of the media seeking patient condition reports must have the first and last name of the patient. Without this information, we cannot release patient information or condition reports.

Once a child's parent or guardian has given consent, the public relations team can release information on a child's age, sex, general nature of injury and condition. Names of children will not be released except in cases where the child has already been publicly identified.

Conditions

Good
Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable. Indicators are excellent.

Fair
Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious but may be uncomfortable. Indicators are favorable.

Serious
Vital signs may be unstable and not within normal limits. Patient is acutely ill. Indicators are unfavorable.

Critical
Vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. Indicators are unfavorable.

Extremely Critical
Vital signs are poor. Patient may be on life support. Outcome of patient is questionable.

The term "stable" is occasionally used in conjunction with the conditions listed above. It is never used alone.