Code Yellow – Missing Patient

An elderly patient with Alzheimer’s who has experienced a minor stroke is in your care. You return to her beside after checking in with other patients and she is no where to be found. You engage your team and conduct a search of the unit – she is still missing. You fear for her health and safety. What do you do now?

Activate the Code Yellow Plan.

The Code Yellow plan outlines the process for organizing a coordinated search for a missing patient or resident. The plan outlines the proper search protocols and communications procedures based upon the assessed risk of the missing person.

Response procedures include some or all of the following:

• PA Announcement requesting the person to return to the unit.

• Description of the missing person emailed to all staff and staff requested to conduct a search of their area.

• Contact AOC as per your facility plans and follow requested actions.

For more information on emergency procedures please visit the Health Emergency Management BC page on VCH Connect.