Without a proper system, hospitals struggle to recognise and manage potential threats to patient health. These include:
- Infection Control: Unmonitored visitors can unknowingly introduce and spread infections, particularly concerning for immunocompromised patients. Tracking allows for quicker contact tracing if an outbreak occurs.
- Patient Privacy Breaches: Knowing who has access to patient areas is vital for upholding confidentiality. A lack of tracking makes it harder to prevent unauthorised access to sensitive information.
- Elopement & Safety of Vulnerable Patients: Visitors can unintentionally assist patients – particularly those with cognitive impairments – to leave the hospital grounds without authorisation, putting them at risk.
- Disruptive Behaviour: Unidentified or unmanaged visitors may exhibit disruptive or aggressive behaviour, creating a stressful environment for patients and staff.
- Difficulty in Emergency Situations: During emergencies like fires or lockdowns, knowing exactly who is in the hospital is crucial for effective evacuation and accountability.
To mitigate these risks, we advise hospitals to prioritise implementing a visitor management system that includes features like visitor registration, ID verification, and real-time tracking. Consider integrating the system with existing security and patient administration systems for a streamlined approach. Staff training on the system’s use and the importance of visitor management is also essential. Regularly review and update visitor policies to reflect best practices and address emerging threats.
Ultimately, investing in a comprehensive visitor management system isn’t just about security; it’s about creating a safer, more secure, and more healing environment for patients. If your hospital is currently relying on manual processes, we recommend scheduling a consultation to explore tailored solutions that address your specific needs and enhance patient safety.
