Knowledge of Emergency Colour Codes among Healthcare Workers in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Wardha, Maharashtra, India: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: An emergency refers to any crisis caused by humans or natural disasters that requires prompt and effective action to protect life and property. Consequently, a wellcoordinated and carefully planned emergency response is crucial. Medical emergency codes are utilised globally to alert hospital staff about various emergencies. Aim: To assess the knowledge of healthcare workers regarding emergency colour codes in a tertiary care hospital. Additionally, it aims to develop standardised operating procedures and policies based on these codes and provide guidance on their implementation in hospitals for different emergency situations. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, Maharashtra, India, from December 2021 to May 2022. A total of 100 healthcare workers aged >18 years, employed at a tertiary care hospital, were included in the study. A survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire to assess the knowledge of the participants. The questionnaire consisted of two sections: the first section collected demographic information such as age, gender, qualifications, and profession, while the second section consisted of nine items to evaluate knowledge related to the role of emergency response codes in managing hospital emergencies. Descriptive statistics, including percentages and frequencies, were used to present the results. Results: In the present study, out of 100 study subjects, the maximum percentage (40%) belonged to the age group of 36- 55 years, while the minimum percentage (18%) belonged to the age group of 18-25 years. Among the participants, 25% were male and 75% were female. A significant proportion (92.7%) of the population demonstrated knowledge of the codes for handling hospital emergencies. Specifically, 98% of participants were familiar with the use of code red for fire emergencies, and 88% understood the process of activating code red. All participants had a basic understanding that code blue is used for cardiac arrest, and 85% had knowledge of paediatric emergency codes. Additionally, 96% were aware of the indications for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), and 100% knew the abbreviation for CPR. Conclusion: The present study revealed that 96% of the population had good knowledge, while 4% had average knowledge regarding the codes for handling hospital emergencies. Implementing standardised operating procedures and ensuring staff awareness of all emergency response codes used in the hospital are recommended.

Keywords

• colour coding
• emergency crisis
• public health
• safety protocol