The continued increase in the number of behavioral patients in EDs, combined with reductions in staffing, are challenging the resources of hospital security departments. In this article, the author describes a team approach, involving public safety officers, RNs, and physicians, that has drastically reduced time spent by officers in the ED and increased their availability throughout the facility.
AbstractThe continued increase in the number of behavioral patients in EDs, combined with reductions in staffing, are challenging the resources of hospital security departments. In this article, the author describes a team approach, involving public safety officers, RNs, and physicians, that has drastically reduced time spent by officers in the ED and increased their availability throughout the facility.