The following timely tips are brought to you courtesy of South Shore Security,
the Massachusetts leader for sound security solutions.

Security tips for healthcare facilities and medical emergencies
January 2003

Hospitals, emergency rooms and accident scenes are some of the most stressful environments we can encounter. Keep the following tips in mind to maintain a safe environment in any healthcare facility or medical emergency:

Ask the security officer on duty for directions if you feel lost or overwhelmed in a large healthcare facility.

Carry ID with you in case of an emergency. Common forms of personal identification include a driver's license, passport, birth certificate and student ID card.

Specify whether you are an organ donor on your driver's license.

Have your medical insurance card with you at all times in case you have to go to the hospital or doctor's office without warning.

If you or someone you know requires wheelchair assistance, call a security officer for an escort from the parking lot, no matter what type of facility it is.

Do not attempt to help victims at an accident scene without first calling for additional assistance from onsite security or paramedics.

Make sure that the infant and pediatric units in your hospital have an effective Environment of Care (EOC) program. This includes well-trained security officers who are sensitive to the needs of children and parents.

Report any suspicious or dangerous behavior in a medical facility to security. Never attempt to diffuse a situation by yourself.

Medical and healthcare facilities are fast-paced places, where tensions can run high and security is an utmost concern. The proper precautions allow level heads to prevail in these specialized environments.

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