• In order to provide a condition report on a patient, the media must first provide the patient's first and last name. No exceptions will be made.
• Information about any patient is limited to a one-word condition report consistent with the limitations imposed by HIPAA privacy standards.

The American Hospital Association has suggested the following one-word descriptions of a patient's condition.

• Undetermined — Patient awaiting physician assessment.
• 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 questionable.
• Critical — Vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. Indicators are unfavorable.
• Treated and Released — received treatment but not admitted
• Deceased

Note: The term “stable” should not be used as a condition. Furthermore, this term should not be used in combination with other conditions, which, by definition, often indicate a patient is unstable. With written authorization from the patient, a more detailed statement regarding a patient's condition and injuries or illness can be drafted and approved by the patient or legal representative.

When accidents occur, the media should call the hospital where the patient is transported for a condition report. Reports at the accident scene are not official condition reports. A condition report can be assigned to a patient only after a physician's assessment.