Survey shows hospitals dealing with increase in violence

COEUR D'ALENE, Idaho – Violence against hospital staff is on the rise, and Kootenai Health is taking steps to address the issue. A 2023 survey shows that simple assaults in hospitals more than doubled from 2012 to 2022, prompting NonStop Local to investigate how local hospitals are managing the situation.

NonStop Local sat down with Kootenai Health leaders to discuss the challenges they face and the measures in place to protect staff and patients.

Safety for hospital staff has always been a concern, but the conversation surrounding clinical violence is becoming more urgent. Mental Health Specialist Kimberly Windsor explained that violence against hospital staff is not new but they are prepared. She showcased the technology staff are using. "And if you hit this button it actually will