While active shooters at healthcare facility are rare, preparation is still key

Healthcare facilities are not immune from active shooter incidents, and pharmacists in these facilities need to know how to respond, according to an article on the Pharmacy Times website.

One incident at Mercy Hospital and Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois, on November 19, 2018, claimed four lives, including a pharmacy resident.

Knowing what to do in an active shooter situation can save lives. For instance, pretending to be dead or doing nothing has cost many people their lives, but working together to throw the shooter off balance often works.

Throwing things, making noise, and running in a zig zag, are all effective ways to confuse and distract the perpetrator. Finally, evacuate if and when it is safe to do so.

Read the article.