Can there be too much hospital security?

Facilities question whether their security plans are enough - or too much


After recent incidents, healthcare facilities are questioning whether their security plans are enough — or too much, according to an article on the Fierce Healthcare website.

A November study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, said that increased violence prevention efforts by hospitals will save lives — and money. And "even if the intervention cost a little more than it saved in dollars and cents to the healthcare system, there would still be a net benefit in terms of the violence it prevented," Jonathan Purtle, Ph.D., one of the study authors, said.

Some feel that adding extra security measures such as metal detectors or even a hospital-specific police force would send the wrong message to patients.

Despite a recent violent incident, the Exodus Mental Health Urgent Care Center in California does not provide its guards with weapons and doesn't plan to, according to the L.A. Daily News. It also doesn't use metal detectors because the agency wants the facility to feel "warm and homelike." 

Read the article.

 

 



February 2, 2015


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Making Multi-Site Lighting Upgrades Work

Success requires a program structure that connects audits, financial analysis, rebate administration, procurement, scheduling and closeout documentation.


Designing a Positive Care Destination for Children

The new Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital reimagines the healthcare experience to create an environment that feels welcoming from arrival to discharge.


Blackbird Health Opens 10th Clinic in Pennsylvania

The Bala Cynwyd clinic represents Blackbird Health's 13th location overall.


Healthcare Construction Infection Control: Essential CDC Guidelines for Active Facilities

Construction and renovations happen, but that doesn’t mean infection prevention can take a backseat. The CDC has some recommendations for maintaining best practices during construction.


Protecting the Most Vulnerable: Inside the NICU

SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital leaders share how maintaining power, air quality and essential systems helps protect patients during their most vulnerable moments.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.