Healthcare Safety Toolkit Library

Managing security within a healthcare organization is a challenging task. There are various ways that security can be organized within an organization depending upon needs and resources. LHA Trust Funds has created this document as a reference and resource of best practices in the development of a healthcare facility-specific security program. This best practices guide was written with advice from experts in law and healthcare security. Topics covered address issues such as threat management, weapons, handcuffs, body cameras, training and staffing.

An evidence-based resource developed by the International Association for Healthcare Safety and Security (2015) to address the benefits of body worn cameras by security guards in healthcare organizations. An extensive bibliography and a resource list are included to assist with further information on the topic.

An evidence-based resource developed by the International Association for Healthcare Safety and Security (2018) to address the issue of handcuffs in the healthcare setting. The document discusses the use of handcuffs in healthcare, regulations that address the use of handcuffs by security officers, patient management and best practices to prevent situations where handcuffs might become necessary.

The Joint Commission (TJC) discusses the identified root causes of surgical fires. The sentinel alert also examines surgical fire risk reduction strategies and prevention recommendations.

Planning and conducting an OR fire drill is essential for the safety of patients, staff and physicians. This Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN)-produced resource provides instructions to assist surgical staff members in planning and conducting OR fire drills.

The Association of periOperative Registered Nurses (AORN) discusses 12 different fire drill scenarios that may be used for conducting fire drills in the surgical area.

Reducing the risk of encountering an active shooter situation is important to any business, especially healthcare. These resources provide tools on how to plan what to do in the event of an active shooter/violent situation.

Acitve shooter events are increasing more and more across the U.S. and the experts have developed tools to help the lay person identify a potential active shooter as a risk reduction strategy.

Healthcare organizations should take the possiblity of an active shooter event occuring in their facility very seriously. These resources provide key tactics on managing violent and disruptive behavior as a risk reduction process.

Active shooter training is vital for all staff in a healthcare organization as they are the eyes and ears of the facility. These resources help ensure staff are trained and prepared to address violent/aggressive behavior/situations.