Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital

Winfield, Illinois

Following concerns regarding staff safety in the triage area, Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital Emergency Department leadership collaborated with executive leadership, Security, Workforce Safety, and the Professional Governance Council to implement a comprehensive workplace violence mitigation strategy. Enhancements included creation of a secured badge-access triage area, dedicated security screening space, ballistic-rated safe room, expanded 24/7 security coverage for the 67-bed department and rapid lockdown capabilities. Frontline staff actively participated in planning and design efforts to ensure solutions aligned with operational needs. These environmental and process improvements substantially strengthened safety, enhanced emergency preparedness and increased staff confidence. These improvements reinforced the organization’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment for patients and caregivers.

Additionally, the emergency department’s nationally recognized SANE program has grown to more than 30 providers. Forensic care is available 24/7 for adult, adolescent and pediatric survivors. The result: Nearly 100 percent of patients who need it receive care from a qualified SANE clinician. Through partnerships with advocacy agencies, the Child Advocacy Center, Child Protective Services, law enforcement, sexual assault response team and the State Office of the Attorney General, survivors receive comprehensive, trauma-informed care, advocacy, follow-up services and legal support while advancing education, funding and statewide survivor resources.