Survey of educators' preparedness to respond to active shooter incidents

Kevin R. Clark, Suzieann M. Bass, Sonja K. Boiteaux

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose To examine the preparedness of medical imaging and radiation therapy educators to handle and respond to an active shooter event and their confidence to control their classrooms and protect their students. Methods Using a cross-sectional research design and a mixed-methods approach, the authors surveyed 366 educators from radiography, radiation therapy, magnetic resonance, and medical dosimetry programs accredited by the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology, documenting their preparedness to respond and their confidence to control their classrooms and protect their students during an active shooter event. Results Most (166, 45.4%) participants in this study felt moderately prepared to respond to an active shooter event in their classroom. In addition, most participants felt moderately confident in their abilities to control their classrooms (159, 43.4%) and protect their students (154, 42.1%) during an active shooter incident. Most (135, 36.9%) participants agreed that the possibility of an active shooter event is taken seriously at their institution. Discussion Pearson chi-square calculations revealed significant associations between educators' level of preparedness to respond appropriately to an active shooter event and having an institutional active shooter policy, offering active shooter training, and conducting active shooter drills. An analysis of the open-ended survey responses revealed 3 themes: lack of preparedness, lack of policy, and proactive techniques. Conclusion Although most participants in this study felt moderately prepared to respond to an active shooter event, areas for improvement include implementing a policy and training program for addressing an active shooter situation, mandating active shooter response training for all employees and students, conducting active shooter drills routinely, and focusing the training program on response and preventive measures.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)541-551
Number of pages11
JournalRadiologic technology
Volume90
Issue number6
StatePublished - Jan 1 2019

Keywords

  • Active shooter
  • Educators' preparedness and confidence
  • Medical imaging
  • Radiation therapy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Radiological and Ultrasound Technology
  • Radiology Nuclear Medicine and imaging

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