41.2 The Odd Couple: Security and Psychiatry

Abstract

Although published literature exists about the use of security guards on adult psychiatric and forensic inpatient units, that is not the case for inpatient child and adolescent units. However, security officers are sometimes present on these units, particularly if there is a concern for staff and/or patient safety. The presence of a uniformed guard can be intimidating to patients, especially those with a history of trauma or negative interactions with law enforcement, but also can lend a sense of safety.