Press Policy
Requests for Interviews or Filming/Photographs
Members of the media interested in conducting interviews or taking photographs of staff, patients, or patients' families must first request permission from Children's public relations staff. This includes visits to Children's for live stand-ups and other external shots on the campus.
All media will be required to sign our Confidentiality Agreement Form for Recording, Filming and Media Interviews (PDF 36 KB). Public relations will issue identification badges to authorize photographers and reporters to conduct interviews or take photographs on campus.
All members of the press will be escorted by public relations staff while on campus. Written consent from from a patient's legal representative must be given before the interview, filming or photography takes place.
Release of Patient Information
We hold our patients' and families' confidentiality and privacy in the highest precedence. Information about the condition of a patient will be released only if the inquiry specifically contains the patient's name and the patient's legal representative has authorized the release.
A patient, or the person authorized to give consent, can opt out of providing information altogether.
Please read the Washington State Hospital Association Guide for Cooperation (PDF 3 MB) for more information. For more details regarding our procedures on providing patient information or other hospital related requests, please contact a public relations staff member.
Patient Condition Classifications
Undetermined
The patient is awaiting a physician and an assessment.
Treated and Released
The patient has been treated by the hospital, and has been released.
Stabilized and Transferred
The patient was stabilized at the hospital, and has been transferred to another facility for further care.
Satisfactory
Vital signs (heartbeat, breathing, blood pressure, temperature) are stable and within normal limits. The patient is conscious and comfortable. Indicators are good.
Serious
Vital signs may be unstable and not within normal limits. Patient is acutely ill. Indicators are questionable.
Critical
Vital signs are unstable or not within normal limits. The patient may be unconscious. There is some doubt the patient will recover. Death could be imminent.
Deceased
Death has occurred.