Working in healthcare becoming a risky business

Healthcare workers in general, and ED staff in particular, face a huge risk of violence


Healthcare workers in general, and ED staff in particular, face a huge risk of violence, according to a blog on the Medpage Today website.

In 2004, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reported that healthcare and social service workers account for nearly half (48 percent) of all nonfatal injuries reported in the U.S. from workplace violence and assaults.

ICN noted in 2009 that healthcare workers are more likely to be attacked at work than prison guards and police officers and an ED nurse is considered the second most dangerous U.S. civilian occupation, behind New York City cab driver. 

OSHA has specific recommendations for hospitals and healthcare settings, including  engineering controls, personal protective equipment, as well as training for violence prevention, stress management, early recognition, and post-incident procedures.

Metal detectors have shown promise, but administrators remain wary about how these detectors will be perceived, and many EDs may not have the layout or security staff to implement metal detectors at each entrance, the article said.

Read the article.

 

 



March 18, 2015


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Safety Features Senior Living Communities Prioritize

Families want their loved one to be in a safe facility, leading designers to prioritize more safety features.


University of Miami Health System Ensnared in Data Breach

An employee had gained unauthorized access to over 2,000 patient records.


MEP Engineering to Address Children's Hospitals' Unique Needs

Designers need to create functional and comforting environments that enhance the experience for children and their families.


Windsor Regional Hospital Selects EllisDon for Hospital Project

Groundbreaking is anticipated to happen in early 2026.


Aspirus Breaks Ground on New Chippewa Falls Hospital and Clinic

The estimated completion date of the facility is September 2026.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.