Hot spot. Planning, design and construction is the right remedy for ED dangers

Forget the TV show "ER." The real thing is much more dramatic--and dangerous. In fact, the emergency department poses the greatest security risk in hospitals. Some estimates show that about 60 percent of crime in hospitals occurs in EDs. That's why the department should be designed, constructed and furnished to minimize security risks. Careful, strategic site planning and design measures are especially important for the site areas adjacent to or serving the ED. Here are some special planning and design tactics that can improve your hospital's security.