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Safety, support and security at Royal Hobart Hospital’s Emergency Department (ED) has been strengthened with the recent commencement of Emergency Support Officers (ESOs).
In a new initiative, eight ESOs have just completed three weeks of intensive training and will provide a reassuring presence seven days a week in the ED, with two ESOs rostered on per shift (AM, PM and night duty),
The new initiative is designed to support patients waiting in the ED, allowing for early identification of any behavioural changes or concerns.
ESOs are supporting a safe and secure environment in the ED by assisting those who need additional support, de-escalating situations where required, responding to aggressive incidents under the direction of the clinical team, and generally supporting visitors and patients in the ED and waiting room.
They will enable nursing and clinical staff to focus on patients and allow waiting room nurses to commence treatment and focus on clinical tasks.
In 2023, the Department of Health established an Independent Review into Safety and Security in Emergency Departments to examine the functioning of Emergency Departments in relation to staff safety.
Through the Independent Review, an action plan was developed to focus on all of our health services, including Ambulance Tasmania, Statewide Mental Health Services and the broader agency.
The Department of Health is committed to enhancing staff safety and security in our health facilities as the safety of patients, visitors and staff is the highest priority.
The Department does not tolerate inappropriate, aggressive, abusive and violent behaviour in our hospitals and health facilities.
Every staff member within our health service is doing an important job that supports Tasmanians to access high-quality healthcare and they deserve to be treated with respect.
The Department of Health is continuing to progress recommendations from the Independent Review through the Action Plan and looking at further initiatives.