By Jeff Wardon, Jr., Assistant Editor

Many types of violence can occur in and around healthcare facilities, including those that are self-inflicted, as a Springfield, Missouri-based hospital recently learned. 

The Springfield police department is investigating a recent suicide that occurred outside Mercy Hospital's emergency room, according to the Springfield News-Leader. A man shot himself outside the west entrance, with no other injuries reported. Mercy commended the police and its own emergency department team for their handling of the situation, ensuring patient care and the continued operation of the department.  

Related: Preventing Weapon-Related Violence in Healthcare

When unexpected incidents such as this occur, healthcare facilities managers must be prepared to deal with them ahead of time. Weapon-detection systems are one layer of preventive security that can aid in detecting weapons.  

One recent example involves Huntington Hospital in Huntington, New York, which outfitted its facilities with a walk-through weapons and contraband screening system, according to a press release. These systems help detect unwanted items from entering the hospital.   

Jeff Wardon, Jr. is the assistant editor for the facilities market.