: The State health department has issued instructions to hospitals in the city to curb assault on medical staff at workplace.
“All doctors must locate a security guard on duty so that he may be summoned any time immediately if required, along with a sign code indicating impending threat and help,” reads the two-page direction that is also aimed at improving services for patients and bringing in “mandatory process reforms in all medical establishments.’’
Inspections must
The order further mandates periodic inspections at hospitals, and mapping of security guards in hospitals. It adds that security guards must ensure unrestricted entry into wards, and that shoes, etc. are placed in corners.
Hospitals are to also ensure that expectant mothers attending the general emergency are not made to go from room to room. They must be kept in the emergency area, and carried on stretchers or wheelchairs if need be.
“A medical superintendent has to see to it that officers guide patients during the process of admission, consultation, etc.,’’ said senior health official.
Issuing directions to nurses, the order states, “All nurses must be available on duty at the start of their shift timings. Preparations like changing uniform, marking attendance, etc. must be completed before the shifts start.’’
The order has also asked all team members to assemble in common areas of wards, and familiarise with each other. Names and mobile numbers of consultant doctors on duty must be prominently displayed in duty rooms/nursing stations and corridors of all wards.
