General
slow code
What does slow code mean?
An ethically fraught, unofficially subdued resuscitation performed on a patient for whom full efforts are felt to be futile.
"Everyone knew it was going to be a slow code."
Origin
US hospital slang; discussed critically in medical ethics.
Frequently asked questions
What is a 'slow code'?
It is a deliberately half-hearted or unofficially subdued resuscitation performed on a patient for whom full efforts are felt to be futile.
Is a slow code ethical?
It is ethically fraught and widely criticised in medical ethics, because it performs the appearance of resuscitation without full intent to succeed.
Are there other names for it?
Yes — related slang includes 'show code' and 'Hollywood code,' emphasising the performative, going-through-the-motions aspect.
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