The number of attacks on staff is also increasing in German hospitals. Intimidation and threats are almost the order of the day. To ensure better protection, a clinic in Dortmund is now equipping its employees with body cameras.
According to a report by ‘Bild’, the number of so-called atrocity crimes (theft, robbery and bodily harm) increased by almost 30 percent between 2019 and 2022 in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. In September, the attack on employees of an emergency room in Essen caused a lot of commotion. Family members injured several members of the team after a man died despite emergency measures. In immediate response, security personnel on site were increased.
“Bulls and attacks are nothing new”
The Dortmund clinic also has similar incidents. “Insults, insults, attacks. Unfortunately, this is nothing new,” clinic boss Michael Kötzing emphasizes on his Instagram page. Kötzing also cites the relocation of the drug scene near his facility as one of the reasons. Scammers have also been spotted in the house.
In addition to structural measures and tightening the house rules, it has also been decided to equip staff with body cameras, known from the police. These will mainly be deployed in the three emergency departments. There is no exact start date yet. “The legal predictions are already being investigated,” says Kötzing.
Deterrent effect and means to preserve evidence
The small cameras are mainly intended to have a deterrent effect. In the worst case, important evidence can also be secured in this way. However, Kötzing assures that the body cameras can only be turned on in escalating situations.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
