In healthcare facilities, especially those focusing on behavioral health, patient safety is paramount. Top door alarms are a specific type of anti-ligature door security system. They play a vital role in mitigating suicide attempts by detecting potential ligature points. We’ll go over what these alarms are used for, their functionality training for installation certifications.
Ligature Risks Can Threaten Patient Lives
Ligature refers to any object or material that can be used for self-strangulation. In behavioral health facilities, potential ligature points can include bedsheets, clothing, towels, or even door gaps. Top door alarms address a specific vulnerability – the space at the top of the doorway between the door and the frame.
Here’s how traditional doors can pose a ligature risk:
- Pressure Points: When a door is closed with enough force, it can create a gap at the top that’s wide enough to become a ligature point.
- Improvised Ligatures: Patients might attempt to wedge clothing or other materials into the top gap to create a ligature point.
Modern Facilities Can Use Top Door Alarms to Protect their Patients
Top door alarms address the ligature risk at the top of the doorway. Here’s how they work:
- Sensor Technology: Top door alarms use photoelectric sensor technology. These sensors are positioned at the top and bottom of the doorway to detect the presence of an object or a person in the gap before pressure is applied.
- Early Detection: This early detection capability is a key advantage. By sensing an intrusion before ligature is attempted, staff can intervene promptly, potentially preventing a life-threatening situation.
- Clear Notification: They’ll notify staff with visual and audio notifications. Most units offer a light that will go off as well as a siren. On top of this they can be attached to a central control system. Those overlooking the floor/ward will receive an immediate notification that the alarm is going off even if they can’t hear it.
- Customization: Top door alarms can be designed for new facilities or retrofitted into existing ones. They are compatible with various door types, including conventional swinging doors and pivot hinges.
- Enhanced Patient Safety: By reducing ligature risk at the top of the doorway, top door alarms contribute to a safer environment for patients.
- Proactive Intervention: Early detection allows staff to intervene before a critical situation develops.
Now none of this can work without a proper installation. That’s why when you’re looking to have top door alarms installed, you should look for a certified team. They’ll be able to offer you their proof of completion for Door Control USA’s course.
Door Control USA Is the Leading Figure Behind Top Door Alarm Installation Certifications
Door Control USA (DCUSA) is a company specializing in automatic and manual door replacement parts. They also distribute and promote one of the major top door alarm systems used in NA. Here’s a closer look at DCUSA’s role:
- Distribution: DCUSA acts as a distributor for Top Door Alarms, making them accessible to healthcare facilities across the country. They partner with certified installers to ensure top quality for their customers and patients.
- Training: DCUSA offers a Factory Training program for top door alarms. This program equips participants with the knowledge required for proper installation, inspection, troubleshooting, and repair of the system. Certified top door alarm installers are given every resource to ensure each install is effective.
While Door Control USA isn’t a regulatory body, it plays a crucial role in bringing this essential safety technology to healthcare facilities. They’re on the forefront of promoting safety within healthcare environments. If the installation team can’t show their credentials for completing this course, you should look for a different team. Training and certifications are of the upmost importance when it comes to protecting patient’s lives.
Patient Safety Doesn’t Stop at Door Alarms
While top door alarms address a specific ligature risk, a comprehensive approach to patient safety is essential in behavioral health facilities. Here are some additional safety measures:
- Ligature-resistant materials: Utilizing furniture, fixtures, and door hardware made from ligature-resistant materials can further reduce risks.
- Staff Training: Regular training for staff on suicide prevention and intervention protocols is crucial for a prompt and effective response.
- Environmental Design: Careful consideration should be given to the design of the physical environment to minimize potential ligature points.
Installers Need to Be Certified to Properly Install Top Door Alarms
Top door alarms are a valuable tool for enhancing patient safety in behavioral health facilities. Door Control USA, through distribution and training programs, plays a significant role in making these systems available. They not only ensure their availability, but they have training set up to promote proper implementation. By combining top door alarms with a holistic approach to patient safety, healthcare facilities can create a safer environment for those under their care.