Patient is conscious, but may be uncomfortable. Indicators are favorable. Patient is acutely ill. Indicators are questionable. Patient may be unconscious.
Indicators are unfavorable.
Furthermore, this term should not be used in combination with other conditions, which by definition often indicate a patient is unstable. In situations where the news media is seeking access to health information that the patient has refused to release, the burden of compelling the hospital to release information should be on the news media unless disclosure is otherwise required by law. Protecting Against Threats to Patient Privacy Special procedures for handling the patient records of individuals who request anonymity can be developed. Omitting the patient's name from the cover of the record Using an alphanumeric code or alias name in place of the patient's real name. One format used is a combination of the patient's initials and business office account number.