Can Any Hospital Staff Call Security? Understanding the Hospital Security Call Process

Introduction

Hey readers,

Have you ever wondered who has the authority to call security in a hospital? Whether you’re a patient, visitor, or staff member, understanding the hospital security call process is crucial for ensuring a safe and orderly environment. In this article, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of who can call security in a hospital and the various scenarios where it’s appropriate to do so.

Who Can Call Security in a Hospital?

The answer to this question is not always straightforward. While it may seem logical that only certain hospital staff members, such as nurses or security guards, have the authority to call security, in reality, any hospital staff member can call security if they witness or suspect a situation that requires their intervention.

Hospital Staff with Specific Roles

Certain hospital staff members have designated responsibilities that may require them to call security more frequently than others. These include:

• Nurses: Nurses are responsible for patient care and safety, making them the most likely hospital staff members to call security in the event of an emergency or disturbance.
• Security guards: Security guards are responsible for maintaining order and protecting property within the hospital. They are often called to respond to disturbances, thefts, and other security-related incidents.
• Doctors: Doctors may also call security if they witness or suspect a situation that requires their intervention, such as patient aggression or family conflict.

All Other Hospital Staff

In addition to the above staff members, any other hospital staff member can call security if they believe a situation warrants intervention. This includes:

• Administrative staff
• Receptionists
• Housekeeping staff
• Maintenance workers
• Volunteers

Scenarios Where it’s Appropriate to Call Security in a Hospital

There are numerous scenarios where it’s appropriate for hospital staff to call security. These include:

Emergencies

• Medical emergencies: Cardiac arrest, strokes, allergic reactions
• Violent behavior: Physical altercations, threats of harm
• Natural disasters: Earthquakes, tornadoes, fires

Suspicious Activity

• Unauthorized entry: Visitors or staff members who don’t belong in certain areas
• Lost or stolen property: Theft of medical equipment, patient belongings
• Drug or alcohol abuse: Suspected use or possession of illegal substances

Disturbances

• Noise complaints: Loud arguments, excessive noise levels
• Trespassing: Individuals who are not authorized to be on the premises
• Patient or visitor misbehavior: Disruptive or disrespectful behavior

When NOT to Call Security in a Hospital

While it’s important to call security for legitimate reasons, it’s equally important to avoid unnecessary calls. Hospital security staff are often busy responding to real emergencies, and frivolous calls can divert their attention from more pressing matters.

Non-Emergency Situations

• Personal disputes: Arguments between staff members or patients
• Minor disruptions: Occasional noisy visitors or patients
• Routine inquiries: Questions that can be answered by hospital staff or patient relations

Table: Who Can Call Security in a Hospital by Scenario

Scenario	Who Can Call Security
Medical emergency	Nurses, doctors, any hospital staff member
Violent behavior	Nurses, security guards, any hospital staff member
Natural disaster	Any hospital staff member
Unauthorized entry	Security guards, any hospital staff member
Lost or stolen property	Nurses, security guards, any hospital staff member
Drug or alcohol abuse	Doctors, nurses, any hospital staff member
Noise complaints	Nurses, security guards, any hospital staff member
Trespassing	Security guards, any hospital staff member
Patient or visitor misbehavior	Nurses, doctors, any hospital staff member

Conclusion

Understanding the hospital security call process is essential for ensuring a safe and orderly environment. Any hospital staff member can call security if they witness or suspect a situation that requires their intervention. It’s important to call security for legitimate reasons but avoid unnecessary calls that can divert their attention from more pressing matters.

If you have any further questions about the hospital security call process, please don’t hesitate to check out our other articles on hospital safety and security.

FAQ about Hospital Staff Calling Security

Can any hospital staff member call security?

Yes, any hospital staff member, regardless of their role, can call security if they feel threatened or unsafe.

In what situations should I call security?

You should call security if:

• You feel threatened, harassed, or intimidated by a patient, visitor, or staff member.
• You witness or suspect illegal or suspicious activity.
• You need help escorting a patient or visitor out of the hospital.

How do I call security?

There are multiple ways to call security:

• Use the emergency call buttons located throughout the hospital.
• Call the security department directly from a hospital phone.
• Notify your supervisor, who can contact security on your behalf.

What information should I provide when calling security?

When calling security, be prepared to provide:

• Your name and location.
• A brief description of the situation.
• Any specific threats or concerns.

What will security do when I call?

Security will respond to your call and assess the situation. They may:

• Send an officer to your location.
• Help you evacuate the area.
• Contact law enforcement if necessary.

Who should I contact if I have additional questions about security?

If you have any further questions about hospital security, you can contact the security department directly or speak to your supervisor.

Is it okay to call security for minor issues?

Yes, it is okay to call security for even minor issues if you feel uncomfortable or unsafe. Your safety is always a priority.

What if I am a patient and need help calling security?

If you are a patient and need help calling security, ask a nurse or other staff member to assist you. They can use the hospital’s call system to contact security directly.

What if I am not comfortable calling security myself?

If you are not comfortable calling security yourself, ask a trusted friend, family member, or staff member to do it for you. You can also report the situation anonymously to the hospital’s risk management department.

How can I stay safe in the hospital?

There are several things you can do to stay safe in the hospital:

• Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activity.
• Carry a personal safety alarm with you.
• Stay in well-lit and populated areas.
• Avoid leaving personal belongings unattended.