It’s unfortunate, but the reality of life today includes the threat of violence.
We’ve all heard the stories shared too often through news media of innocent people becoming victims to seemingly random acts of violence. Did you know that violence is the second leading cause of death in the workplace? And for women, it’s the leading cause of death in the workplace.
That’s one reason Nebraska Medicine and UNMC created the Threat Assessment Team several years ago. It’s a group of individuals, representing many areas of the campus, that can be activated by security or a leader if a situation arises that could result in violence.
“Our goal is that you never need us,” said Shelly Schwedhelm, executive director, Emergency Preparedness and Infectious Disease. “That the situation is mitigated in advance.”
The only way that can happen is to remain watchful.
“If you see something that doesn’t seem quite right, or a coworker, family member or patient is upset to the point of turning violent or acting out in some way, say something immediately to get assistance,” Schwedhelm said.
The mantra we should all abide by is “if you see something, say something.”
You may remember the team recently recommended reducing the amount of unlocked entries into campus buildings in an effort to protect ourselves, our patients and visitors.
The team is also working to streamline the reporting process of someone who may be exhibiting escalating behavior in the hospital setting.