Healthcare organizations are facing challenges in staff recruitment and retention, especially in ensuring staff members feel safe in their work environments. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a significant increase in violent attacks against medical professionals, and hospital safety directors have observed a surge in aggression against staff, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. National Nurses United also found a substantial increase in workplace violence among nurses. As a result, safety considerations have become a pressing need in all areas of hospitals and clinics, not limited to behavioral health units.
Safety strategies for healthcare facilities
Designing exam rooms, emergency departments, nurses’ stations, and other areas of healthcare campuses with safety in mind is crucial. Considerations should include providing clear exit paths, maintaining visibility, and implementing technological measures such as security cameras and duress buttons. Consultation rooms, healthcare facility entrances, and lobbies also require careful design to ensure security.
Strengthening on-campus safety
Implementing proactive safety measures such as multiple exit paths, duress buttons, and lockdown capabilities is essential for on-campus safety planning. By strategically approaching healthcare campus safety through design, healthcare organizations can better protect staff against potential threats.
For more information on this topic, read “Designing For Staff Safety In Healthcare Facilities”.
Sara Malin is a healthcare architect and principal at Wold Architects & Engineers (St. Paul, Minn.) and can be reached at smalin@woldae.com. Andrew Jordan is a healthcare planner and principal at Wold Architects & Engineers (St. Paul) and can be reached at ajordan@woldae.com.
