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How Do I Become a Hospital Security Officer?
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
There are several avenues people can pursue to become a hospital security officer. One option is to start working at a hospital that provides its own training and does not require prior experience. It is also possible to attend a security officer program that may end with a certification. Another option is to transition from law enforcement, or to work part time as a hospital security officer while employed by a law enforcement agency. The best choice can depend on the applicant and the qualifications the hospital requires from employees.
In some cases, it may be possible to become a hospital security officer with a high school diploma and a quick training course given by the hospital. The course covers hospital policies, legal issues, and safety. Graduates can start working immediately, usually under supervision. Once they have enough experience, they work on their own. They usually cannot carry weapons without completing a weapons safety course.
Other hospitals prefer candidates with more qualifications, either because of legal requirements or internal standards. A security officer training course can familiarize people with basic topics and provide simulated experience as well as classroom training. Such programs may also prepare people to use weapons safely and appropriately. They can provide information on how to restrain and control people, which can be useful in some hospital environments.
The third route to become a hospital security officer is to apply with law enforcement experience. Many facilities accept ex-law enforcement officers or have part time positions available for people who want to continue working in law enforcement careers. The advanced training provided to law enforcement officers may satisfy any legal requirements. It can also increase the chances of a promotion into a senior position, where a hospital security officer may supervise others, set schedules, and have access to the best shifts.
A hospital security officer typically providers a mix of services. These include giving directions to patients, clearing rooms, and assisting hospital personnel in unsafe situations. Sometimes agitated patients pose a risk to themselves or others, or crowds who come in with patients are dangerous. This can include groups of people who are intoxicated or worried, as might be the case in a wake of a major accident, where friends and family crowd a hospital seeking information. Someone who wants to become a hospital security officer needs to be prepared to work with people from a variety of backgrounds under circumstances that may be stressful.
Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.
Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.
Learn more...AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
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![A hospital may hire its own security staff, or may contract an outside staffing agency.]()
By: LsantilliA hospital may hire its own security staff, or may contract an outside staffing agency. -
![A hospital security officer typically provides a variety of services.]()
By: Robert HoetinkA hospital security officer typically provides a variety of services. -
![Hospital safety officers might work in an emergency room to provide security for patients who have been attacked.]()
By: Tim GlassHospital safety officers might work in an emergency room to provide security for patients who have been attacked. -
![Hospital safety officers should be trained to handle various scenarios, including domestic abuse or gun-related violence.]()
By: sudok1Hospital safety officers should be trained to handle various scenarios, including domestic abuse or gun-related violence.
Discussion Comments
@heavanet- Some colleges also offer specific law enforcement classes and certifications geared towards certain jobs like hospital security officer positions. Anyone who is planning to become a hospital security officer should check with various schools in his or her area to find out about programs and classes that are specific to that job field. This approach will cut down on educational costs because the student will not be taking classes that he or she doesn't need.
@heavanet- Thanks for the information! I never thought about it before, but there are a lot of hospital volunteer opportunities that would translate nicely for someone who wants to eventually work in hospital security. Someone who wants to gain this experience should ask about volunteer opportunities on the hospital grounds, or helping patients get safely to their cars in the parking lot.
A great way for a person to get a position as a hospital security office in the community is to train in law enforcement and volunteer at the local hospital. This dual approach will give a person the training he or she needs while also familiarizing him or her with the facility.
Law enforcement training is an ideal way for a person to learn the necessary skills for a position in security. This type of coursework is usually available at a community college or adult education facility, and the cost for training is not extremely expensive. Grants and financial aid is usually available for most individuals.
While in school, a student who volunteers as the hospital he or she would eventually like to work security in will provide experience working in the facility. It will also give him or her opportunities to network, which is a great way to get a foot in the door. In addition, volunteering at the hospital along with taking formal training will look great on a resume when it comes time to apply for work as a hospital security officer.
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