In this latest episode of Veteran Oversight Now, we’re revisiting a highly downloaded episode from April 2024—Veteran Dies Following Delay in “Code Blue” Alert at Memphis VA Medical Center.
Hear from a VA OIG healthcare inspection hotline director discuss how a telemetry technician’s failure to follow a series of communications within the time frame established in the facility’s cardiac telemetry monitoring policy delayed initiating a code blue alert, ending with the patient’s death. This edition also includes highlights of the VA OIG’s work from August 2024.
“Once the patient's heart rate completely stopped and they went into asystole, that should have triggered a code blue. Period.”
– Trina Rollins, VA Office of Inspector General, Office of Healthcare Inspections, Hotline Director
What is Veteran Oversight Now?
Veteran Oversight Now is an official podcast of the Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of Inspector General. Each episode features interviews with key stakeholders, discussions on high-impact reports, and highlights of recent oversight work. Listen regularly for the inside story on how the VA OIG investigates crimes and wrongdoings, audits programs that provide benefits and services to veterans, and inspects medical facilities to ensure our nation’s veterans receive safe and timely health care.