General
positive hilton sign / suitcase sign
What does positive hilton sign / suitcase sign mean?
Mock 'sign' that a patient sitting fully dressed with bags packed is well enough to go home; the 'suitcase sign.'
"Positive suitcase sign — he's clearly ready for discharge."
Origin
Bedside pseudo-'sign' humour; related to 'Samsonite positive.'
Frequently asked questions
What is a 'positive suitcase sign'?
It is a mock clinical 'sign' that a patient who is fully dressed and sitting with their bags packed is well enough to be discharged home.
Is the 'Hilton sign' a real medical sign?
No. It is bedside humour parodying real clinical signs, used to say a patient clearly looks ready to leave.
How does it relate to 'Samsonite positive'?
It is closely related; both use packed luggage as a joking 'sign' about a patient's readiness to leave or expectation about their stay.
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