Safety devices for lone workers are needed now more than ever, as allied health professionals are working tirelessly to ensure each patient receives the most appropriate care for their medical condition and stage of treatment.
With knowledge and skills in specialist areas of healthcare, health professionals consistently put the safety and care of their patients first. Sadly, the same support is not always returned.
Whether in a public hospital, medical clinic or providing at-home care, there are unfortunate situations where patients, visiting friends and family and even bystanders can act aggressively or pose a threat to healthcare staff – with statistics from Worksafe Victoria reporting that up to 95% of general healthcare workers have experienced physical or verbal assault in their career.
At MePACS, we understand that healthcare worker safety is paramount, and all employers have a duty of care to ensure their staff have the confidence to get on with their job, feel safe and have the support they need at all times.
MePACS duress alarms can be an integral part of your workplace safety, and can guarantee that all healthcare staff have access to emergency response service around-the-clock.
Download Our Ultimate Guide To Duress Alarms
What is a wearable Duress Alarm for Allied Health lone workers?
The MePACS duress alarm is a discreet and lightweight wearable device that can send a signal for help to our emergency response centre in a distressing situation, such as a medical emergency or act of physical assault. The alarm can be worn on a lanyard around the neck, or attached to your belt or clothing using the clip attachment.
It has many features and benefits, including two-way voice communication, GPS location, Falls detection, splash and rain proof and visual and audible alerts for battery life and mobile reception.
How does the Duress Alarm work for lone workers?
In the event of an accident, violent incident, assault, fire or emergency, you just have to press the button to send an alert to the MePACS 24/7 response centre. Our trained monitors will respond within two minutes, assess the situation, and promptly take the appropriate action – whether you need a colleague, security personnel or emergency services to assist you.
The built-in GPS in the alarm will provide the monitors with your latest location, so even if you cannot respond they will be able to send you help.
What are the risks for allied health professionals who work alone?
Allied health professionals can work in many areas of healthcare, such as occupational therapy, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, audiology and speech pathology. In their line of work, allied health workers can sometimes provide essential care alone, at night, or for extended periods of time.
There are several risk factors that they can be exposed to:
- Negative human interactions
- Lifting and moving patients
- Misused equipment
- Slippery and uneven surfaces
- Medical emergencies – For the worker or the patient
Working consistently in a high risk environment can also cause ongoing stress and affect personal mental health. A duress alarm can help relieve lone workers of their anxiety and give them the reassurance that they have guaranteed help whenever required, leading to increased morale, work ethic and a dynamic team environment.