Patient Condition Reports for Media

St.Vincent Health Public Relations will release a one-word description of a patient's condition to the media, in accordance with HIPAA, if the patient is listed in the hospital directory. Prior to the release of any condition report, all patients will be given the opportunity to withhold information about their care.

The general patient condition definitions are:

• GOOD: Vital signs, such as pulse, temperature and blood pressure 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 questionable.

• CRITICAL: Vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may not be conscious. Indicators are unfavorable.

If you are a member of the media, you may request a patient condition 24 hours a day by paging Public Relations at 317-338-3550 #8225.