Hospital patients, their relatives and friends can experience a variety of emotions from happiness to grief to concern, among many others. Unfortunately, in the past few years one of those primary emotions is anger. As hospitals across the United States have been subjected to the wrath of COVID-19 and the added pressures accompanying it, nurses, doctors and administrators have faced increased threats and violence.
Violence against healthcare workers has always been a concern, but the number of incidents has multiplied as the COVID stress became exponential. There is always the possibility of an angry family member, a distraught patient or visitor having mental or emotional problems that cause or threaten violence. It may even be a burglar or unwanted trespasser.
Emergency panic alarms can be a helpful security tool for hospitals and clinics who want to diminish potential danger to nurses, doctors, administrators and general staff and provide peace of mind to the entire facility. That’s why many hospitals and clinics are now installing panic buttons.
What is a Hospital Panic Button and How Do They Work?
A hospital panic button is a strategically placed mechanism which automatically signals police or security about an emergency. The buttons are small and installed in a hidden area such as under a desk or counter. Good locations for panic buttons include:
- Pharmacy counters
- Entrance to Emergency Room
- Receptionist Desk
- Any other high-risk areas of a hospital or health care facility
Panic buttons should be placed in areas of high risk for violence where a staff member would have easy access to quickly and quietly notify security. Once the hospital panic button is activated local police will be dispatched to the location without delay.
Individual Wireless Panic Buttons Provide Personal Safety
There is an even greater level of protection than hardwired panic buttons strategically located throughout a hospital. Some hospitals are offering protection to certain employees at all times. Wireless, individual alarm systems clipped to uniforms or hung on lanyards are available for increased personal safety and immediate dispatch.
These panic buttons to call for help are often thought of for seniors, most of us have seen the ads “I’ve fallen and all can’t get up”. These personal panic buttons can be extremely useful and effective in providing immediate and widespread safety for hospital employees. With an individual panic alarm button, a tracking system is set off if the button is pushed and security personnel know exactly where the employee is located through the hospital computer network.
The Cox Medical Center in Branson, MO recently outfitted 300 to 400 staff working in the emergency department and inpatient rooms with personal panic buttons as assaults by patients tripled between 2019 and 2020. According to a recent news report, 123 attacks against hospital staff were reported in 2020, up from 40 in 2019. Injuries related to the assaults jumped from 17 to 78 during the same period.
For any panic system to work, individual or strategically placed buttons, it is essential to ensure hospital employees are crystal clear on protocols and procedures to follow in the event of an emergency or unstable patient or visitor.
HRSS Offers Integrated Hospital Security and Panic Button Solutions
Providing healthcare in a safe environment should be the priority of all hospitals and healthcare facilities. Threats to health care facilities, however, pop up anywhere at any time. All hospitals should have an emergency preparedness strategy and train staff on how to respond in an emergency including how to use strategically placed or personal panic buttons.
High Rise Security Systems, HRSS, is a leading provider of commercial fire alarm and life safety systems for hospitals, hotels, college campuses and many businesses in and around Chicago. We offer integrated security solutions and design your life safety system around your unique needs and risks.
High Rise Security Systems (HRSS) is a leading fire and life safety provider to commercial properties including hospitals and healthcare facilities in and around Chicago. We offer fire alarm system consulting, UL listed equipment, alarm system design and comprehensive services including testing, maintenance and monitoring. Contact us to learn more about protecting your healthcare facility and occupants with integrated security systems and panic alarms.