Media FAQ

Q: Who should I contact to get information for a story I’m interested in writing about St. Luke’s, a new procedure, a new technology or other items?

A:
St. Luke’s Marketing Department can assist in your request for information. The Marketing Department is often able to locate an experienced staff person for you to speak with regarding a specific medical item.
Call Louise Ernewein, St. Luke’s Marketing Department, at 218-249-5694 for more information.

Q: Who should I call to request a condition report on a patient?

A:
A one-word condition report on a current patient is available to media representatives if you know the patient’s full name, except when the patient or the family have specifically requested that no information be given out.
To receive a condition report during regular business hours (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.), call Louise Ernewein, St. Luke’s Marketing Department, at 218-249-5694.
To receive a condition report before or after business hours or during the weekend, call St. Luke’s at 249-5555 and ask to be connected to the Administrative Supervisor on duty.

Q: What are the one-word ‘conditions’ and what does each condition mean?

A:
Good: Vital signs are stable and within normal limits. Patient is conscious and comfortable. Indicators are favorable.

Fair or Stable: 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.