  A new class of error-correcting quantum codes is introduced capable of
stabilizing qubits against spontaneous decay arising from couplings to
statistically independent reservoirs. These quantum codes are based on the idea
of using an embedded quantum code and exploiting the classical information
available about which qubit has been affected by the environment. They are
immediately relevant for quantum computation and information processing using
arrays of trapped ions or nuclear spins. Interesting relations between these
quantum codes and basic notions of design theory are established.
