By Dan Hounsell

Even as the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic begins to recede parts of the country, healthcare facilities remain on guard as incidents of workplace violence continue to pose very real threats to healthcare workers.

Little Rock, Ark., is still on high alert following a series of stabbing deaths. The revelation that four knife attacks could all be related caused local hospitals to double down on security, according to KARK. The attacks have people scared for their safety. Three of the four attacks were fatal, and they happened over a series of dates and locations spanning from August to just a few weeks ago. Police confirm that all attacks happened between 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., a time when healthcare workers are coming and going from their jobs at local hospitals. 

Arkansas Children’s Hospital released a memo detailing increased security measures. Efforts include expanded shuttle coverage overnight, a dedicated outside security patrol on the night shift, added patrols from local law enforcement, and the tracking of staff members on security cameras as they come and go from their cars.