U.S. hospitals are strengthening security and safety training for their staffs in response to increasing reports of violence, security breaches and thefts on medical campuses, according to an article on the USA Today website.
But the recent shooting at Chicago’s Mercy Hospital brings focus to the benefits and limitations of the heightened sense of alert.
“It is really difficult for healthcare administrators who are trying to find a balance between being an open, caring environment and being able to protect their patients, staff and visitors,” Alan Butler, president-elect of the board of the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety, said in the article. “The situation in Chicago highlights this.”
When the gunman entered the hospital, employees acted quickly, ushering colleagues and patients to barricade themselves in rooms or otherwise take cover. Hospital and police officials say the death toll could have been much worse if not for the quick response.
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