Sparrow to Install Metal Detectors in ER - WLNS TV 6 Lansing - Jackson | Your Local News Leader

Sparrow Hospital officials say the Emergency Department will start construction for metal detectors.

They say it's where they see the most foot traffic and back in May, an ER doctor at Sparrow was stabbed by a patient.

Hospital officials say after that incident, they evaluated their security procedures and have come up with some new ways to ensure safety for everyone.

Dr. John Dery has worked in the Emergency Department for years.

"We take care of anyone and everyone. Every situation that comes in the door," says Dr. Dery.

He says about 200 to 300 people come through these doors depending on the day.

"We cant put a cost on patient safety and provider safety, even though they don't have caps and emblems on their chest. All the healthcare providers here are heroes and we need to make sure that they are safe and every patient and visitor is safe."

Sparrow says they got together a team of people including some who work in the ER and have come up with some ways they say will improve campus security.

'The patients aren't going to notice much of a change. Their all going to be security screened for their own safety," he says.

The hospital says this won't hold up patients and getting people treated is still their number one priority. They also plan to put up signs warning people that weapons are prohibited and will have two guards at all times in the Emergency Department on the main campus.

"For me, it gives me an extra layer of safety," says Dr. Dery.