There is a high level of urgency when responding to duress calls in mental health and psychiatric facilities. Situations can escalate rapidly. 2-way communication ensures that when the panic button is triggered, not only is there an acknowledgement that the call has been sent, but also that the information about “who” and “where” has reached the designated staff. To provide SECURITY QoS in any environment, we recommend that each device on the security network be supervised or “pinged” no less than once every 1 to 6 seconds for the following reasons:

Staff Safety: Mental health facilities can be challenging and unpredictable environments. Staff members often work with patients who may be agitated, prone to violent outbursts, or experiencing acute mental health crises. A 2-way supervised wireless duress solution allows staff members to quickly and discreetly call for assistance in case of an emergency or threatening situation. This enhances their personal safety and provides a sense of security while carrying out their duties.

Rapid Response to Emergencies: A 2-way supervised wireless duress solution enables immediate communication between staff members and security personnel or other designated responders. Staff members can quickly trigger a distress signal, which is instantly transmitted to the appropriate parties, allowing for a swift response and intervention. This can be crucial in preventing harm to staff members or other patients.

Patient Safety and Containment: Some mental health patients may require containment or restraint in situations where they pose a danger to themselves or others. A 2-way supervised wireless duress solution enables staff members to request additional support and resources promptly. They can quickly communicate the need for additional personnel, specialized equipment, or medical assistance to ensure the safety and well-being of both the patient and the staff involved.

Minimizing Disruption: In high-stress situations or emergencies, minimizing disruption and maintaining a calm environment is crucial in mental health facilities. A 2-way supervised wireless duress solution allows staff members to discreetly call for assistance without drawing unnecessary attention or causing additional distress to patients. This helps maintain a sense of order and reduces the risk of escalating the situation.

Documentation and Accountability: A 2-way supervised wireless duress solution can provide valuable documentation and accountability in mental health facilities. The system can log distress calls, response times, and actions taken, creating a record that can be reviewed for training purposes, quality assurance, or legal purposes. This information can be valuable in assessing protocols, identifying areas for improvement, and ensuring compliance with regulations and standards.