By Robin Varela, RN, BSN, contributor
The use of different colored wristbands in patient care
settings has exploded. The bands, which used to be limited to blood bands,
allergies or patient identification, are now used to identify everything from
fall risk to latex-specific allergies to code status.
The use of these bands presents a special and unique risk to
new nurses. It is critical that you familiarize yourself with the meaning of
each color for your new facility. Don’t assume that all facilities use a
standard color for the same reason. A yellow band can mean fall risk at Facility
A and code status at Facility B. Be certain you are up to date on the
color-coding standards for your facility. Your facility may also have a policy
on allowing patients to wear, or not wear, the “fashion” wristbands popular with
many fund-raising organizations.
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