Memo

November 14, 2025

Butler Hospital Security Update/Reminder 

Please see the following message below from our security team as both an update and a reminder about procedures when ambulances arrive regarding site safety:

To address any inconsistencies in the wanding process for EMS patients on stretchers, we will implement the following procedures immediately to improve the detection of any weapon or contraband:

Initial Communication:

• When EMS arrives with a patient, security should inform the crew that they need to perform a wand search.  If EMS refuses due to the patient's condition, security should allow them to continue to the ED care area.

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Security’s Wanding Procedure (FYI for EMS):

• If permitted, activate the metal detector and scan the patient starting from the shoulder, down one side of the leg, across the shoes, and back up the opposite leg, forming a "U" pattern on the front of the body.

• Ensure the wand covers the entire chest and waist

• Request EMS assistance to roll the patient so you can repeat the process on the back. If necessary, scan one side at a time,  from the shoulder to the foot.

• Work collaboratively with EMS and follow their instructions for patient handling.

Security will communicate with the providers who arrive to determine appropriateness of wanding, searching, etc.

Thank you for all you do.

Stay safe,

Jenna L. Enscoe, BSN, PHRN, RN, CEN, NE-BC, NREMT-P

Director, Butler Memorial Hospital

Emergency Services and Patient Care Administration

One Hospital Way | Butler, Pennsylvania 16001

O 724-284-4354 |  C 724-290-4304 |  F 724-431-1695

jenna.enscoe@independence.health