A wide range of terms may be used to describe a patient's condition in the United States. The
American Hospital Association advises physicians to use the following one-word conditions in describing a patient's condition to those inquiring, including the media. ;Undetermined: Patient awaiting physician and/or assessment. ;Good:
Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable. Indicators are excellent. ;Fair: Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious, but may be uncomfortable. Indicators are favorable. ;Serious: Vital signs may be unstable and not within normal limits. Patient is acutely ill. Indicators are questionable. ;Critical: Vital signs are unstable and not within normal limits. Patient may be unconscious. Indicators are unfavorable. ;Dead:Vital signs have ceased. Patient has
died.
Other terms Other terms used include
grave,
extremely critical,
critical but stable,
serious but stable,
guarded, and
satisfactory. The
American Hospital Association has advised doctors not to use the word "stable" either as a condition or in conjunction with another condition, especially one that is critical, as it inherently implies unpredictability and the instability of vital signs. ==United Kingdom==