Education, preparation, and moral obligation: An examination of hospital employee role in active shooter training response

Abstract

As active shooter and armed intruder events continue to increase, hospitals have recently begun using the Department of Homeland Security-endorsed “Run Hide Fight” procedures to train employees on how to respond to violent situations. This study uses survey data collected from 333 staff in various employee roles at a Midwest hospital. Employees responded to questions related to “Run Hide Fight” policy education, feelings of preparedness for an active shooter event, and perceptions of moral obligation related to remaining with patients during a potentially fatal encounter. Results indicate variations in education and preparedness response among administration, clinical staff, and non-clinical staff.