Port Pirie and Wallaroo hospitals to have around-the-clock security guards after spate of code black incidents

Security guards will work around-the-clock at two SA hospitals after a rise in violent code black incidents, including a nurse being punched in the head.

Around-the-clock security will be introduced at two regional hospitals after several code black incidents.

Security guards will be stationed at Port Pirie and Wallaroo hospitals 24 hours a day, seven days a week following extensive consultation with staff and the community.

The change comes just weeks after The Advertiser revealed a patient punched one nurse in the head then chased others around a ward at Port Pirie Hospital.

In February a violent patient had to be tasered four times by police at Wallaroo Hospital.

Security guards will be stationed 24/7 at Port Pirie and Wallaroo hospitals after a spate of concerning code black incidents.

Security guards will initially be put in place for six months, during which time the security working group will be expanded to include union representation.

Yorke and Northern Local Health Network (YNLHN) CEO Roger Kirchner said its security working group had been putting in place improved security measures across all of its sites.

“Ranging from better de-escalation training to duress alarms and the physical environments at the hospital,” he said.

“Our staff have told us security guards will further enhance safety – and we’re listening.”

Health Minister Chris Picton said he fully supported the YNLHN Governing Board’s decision.

“Nothing is more important than the safety of our hardworking doctors, nurses and ambos who play a vital role in their communities,” he said.

“We will continue to work with other regional areas and take their concerns about hospital security seriously.”

This follows the introduction of a 24/7 security presence at hospitals in Mount Gambier and Port Lincoln.