Chapter 10 - Training and Development

Abstract

Security officers are the first line of defense for patients and staff; the quality of security staff training is critical to the overall success of the healthcare security program and a direct reflection on the healthcare facility commitment to employee and patient safety. This chapter focuses on how to use training and education to achieve a higher level of confidence and perception of the security program while underscoring the “force multiplier” of a well-trained security force. Litigation, particularly in the U.S., has been a powerful driving force in the evolution of healthcare security officer training. This chapter reviews the basic elements or steps in the training and development process that must be addressed and customized to be relevant to the individual healthcare organization—combining universal healthcare security training with training specific to the organization.