Edmonton's Royal Alexandra Hospital is introducing new security measures in its emergency department, including a one-bag-per-person policy and mandatory bag searches, following a stabbing incident earlier this month.
New security protocols
Starting immediately, all patients and visitors entering the emergency department will be limited to one bag each. The hospital's protective services team will conduct bag searches before individuals are allowed entry. Extra bags will be secured by the team, and exceptions will be made for those who require additional bags for medical supplies or childcare items, according to an Alberta Health Services (AHS) news release issued Tuesday.
AHS stated that reducing the number of bags in the emergency department will help staff and physicians maintain a safe work environment by keeping aisles clear of tripping hazards and ensuring chair and table space is available for patients and their support people.
Visitor restrictions
In addition to the bag policy, only one visitor will be allowed per patient at a time in the emergency department. AHS said this limitation will help reduce noise and free up space for those who need to be there. Exceptions may be made for patients requiring extra support.
Dr. Brian Wirzba, president of the Alberta Medical Association, welcomed the increased security measures, noting that safety is a concern at all large hospitals. He emphasized that the Royal Alexandra Hospital, being an inner-city facility, has a slightly higher urgency to implement such measures. Wirzba also expressed hope that the hospital would handle the belongings of homeless patients, who often bring all their possessions, with care and flexibility.
Background of the stabbing
The changes come after a fight broke out between two men in the hospital's waiting room on April 3, resulting in one man being stabbed. According to the Edmonton Police Service, the victim was released from the hospital the following day, and the two individuals did not know each other.
The suspect, a 56-year-old man, was arrested and faces charges including assault with a weapon, assault causing bodily harm, three counts of failure to comply with probation, and two counts of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. He is currently in remand.
Reactions from officials
Sarah Hoffman, the Opposition hospital and surgical facilities critic, called the new measures a step in the right direction but noted that staff had been requesting additional safety measures long before the stabbing. She urged the UCP government to hire more staff to meet increased demand at hospitals.
