The Royal Hobart Hospital is tackling aggressive behaviour in its emergency department head-on with a new team of Emergency Support Officers (ESOs).
Eight officers have been specially trained to spot potential problems early and de-escalate situations where patients become agitated or aggressive.
Health Minister Guy Barnett said the new initiative is hoped to help create a safe environment for both patients and staff.
“Inappropriate, aggressive, abusive and violent behaviour have no place in our hospitals and health facilities and this is another important initiative we are taking to better support our staff and other patients,” he said.
“Our ESOs are supporting a safe and secure environment in the Royal ED by responding to and de-escalating 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.”
The ESOs will work seven days a week, with two rostered on per shift.
