Children's Hospital Oakland Fined Over Security Concerns
OAKLAND (AP) - State officials have fined Children's Hospital in Oakland over security concerns stemming from two incidents, one in which an employee was taken hostage.
The state's Division of Occupational Safety and Health said on Tuesday that the hospital had failed to protect workers from violence in the emergency department.
Authorities said a homeless man stormed into the emergency room in July and held a nurse and ward clerk hostage before being subdued.
In October, a gunshot victim was dropped off in front of the hospital instead of the emergency room. Nurses reported feeling unsafe while tending to the victim outside.
The citations, which include other violations, total $10,350.
Hospital officials said they have made significant improvements to their safety and security policies. They plan to appeal the fine.
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