Changes to our internal emergency number and Code Blue criteria
On 16 November 2021, we’ll be making changes to some of our internal procedures to simplify and standardise how we deal with on-site emergencies.
Our internal emergency number is changing to 22 22
From Tuesday 16 November 2021, our internal emergency number will change to 22 22. This change has been made in partnership with the Department of Health to standardise internal emergency numbers across Victoria.
Having one internal emergency number improves healthcare worker awareness, particularly for those who work across multiple health services and hospitals and reduces the risk of a delayed emergency response.
We’re currently replacing listings and references to the old emergency number with the new number, including on phone handsets, internal phone directories, ID badges, procedures and guidelines.
We’ll be encouraging adoption of the new number from 16 November 2021, but to minimise risk, the 999 number will continue to be run parallel with 22 22 to ensure no emergency calls go unanswered. You can visit our website for more information on the change including FAQs and manager responsibilities. Links to updated procedure documents will also be available on our Emergency Management intranet site.
Changes to Code Blue and MET call criteria
Effective 16 November 2021, the criteria for Code Blue and MET (Medical Emergency Team) calls will be simplified to ensure we have the right team, in the right place, for the right reason.
These criteria apply to any person suffering a medical emergency on site – whether patient, employee, contractor, university staff or visitor, whether they are on a ward or elsewhere.
Call types:
Code Blue: to be called when there are no signs of life, as identified by:
- Unconscious (unresponsive)
- Not breathing normally, not moving
- No palpable pulse
MET Call: to be called in all other medical emergency response situations:
- Must be called for inpatients in a ward setting when they breach MET criteria
- Can be called if concerned about a patient despite normal observations
- Must be called for anyone on site requiring urgent medical attention
A MET Call will be upgraded to a Code Blue by the responding MET team if required.
Why are we making this change?
Reports from responding teams and analysis of our data indicates that the vast majority of incidents don’t require additional support from anaesthetics, security, or other members of the Code Blue response team. Instead, these cases could be managed effectively by the Medical Emergency Team (MET).
The change will ensure that the right team goes to the right place, to provide the care required and is widely supported by the teams who respond to these incidents.
More information
The new criteria for Code Blue and MET calls is available on PROMPT and in the updated emergency code booklets that will be available by each phone from 16 November 2021.
Thank you for your ongoing dedication and care.
Anjali DhuliaChief Medical OfficerExecutive Director, Medical Services
All managers are requested to share these updates with their teams and discuss at stand-ups and handovers. Please print a copy and display it in communication books and on employee noticeboards.