With the recent terrorist attacks in Paris and London, there are many questions being asked about the securing of so-called soft targets. Hospitals have fallen into this category, and a spotlight has been placed on preparation. What are the preparatory and training expectations of hospitals, and how will they reach the goals of responding to a large-scale event (traumatic and/or contaminated) while maintaining safety needs of patients, staff, and structure? This article discusses emergency planning, training, and response to the perceived threats that community hospitals face and includes a discussion about future needs—in view of recent events—through article reviews, policies, and procedures.
