Ask HRC: Placement of Emergency Call Buttons in Radiology Exam Rooms

An HRC member recently inquired about the requirements for emergency or code blue call buttons in radiology examination rooms.

The 2006 American Institute of Architects (AIA) Guidelines for Design and Construction of Health Care Facilities specifies that imaging suites should have emergency call systems installed in patient bathrooms. Additionally, the guidelines state that outpatient and treatment areas of the hospital should provide for emergency calls in areas “where patients may be subject to incapacitation.” Therefore, patient restrooms and dressing rooms in radiology treatment areas should have emergency call buttons. Some facilities may choose to have a technician closely monitor the dressing rooms,...