What Is a Code Grey?
Nurses and other healthcare personnel working on duty deal with a variety of individuals that can be difficult at times and sometimes the individuals become agitated, aggressive, and violent.  Â
When these behaviors take place, typically a code grey must be called in order to manage the individuals in an appropriate manner and to ensure the safety of others.  Â
Security personnel are typically called to the area if needed to help resolve the situation or remove the individual(s) from the premises if necessary. Â
 A code grey can also indicate an infant or child abduction and many of these incidents seem to occur in emergency departments and throughout the healthcare organization.  Â
The management of a code grey involves activating the code as soon as it occurs, calling 911 if needed, designating the appropriate personnel, and limiting people in the immediate area to designated staff.  Â
The following are important to fully understand when dealing with a code grey in order for the code to be handled safely and effectively:Â Â
- How does one respond to a code grey? Â
- What are the principles that a nurse should follow while activating a code grey?Â
- Who are the team members that are involved in a code grey?  Â
- What is considered a code grey lockdown?  Â
