Internertional Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) Basic Officer Certification Practice Exam

Which term refers to the act of controlling access to a healthcare facility?

1. Surveillance

2. Access Control

3. Monitoring

4. Emergency Protocol

The correct answer is: Access Control

The term that refers to the act of controlling access to a healthcare facility is "Access Control." This involves implementing measures and protocols to regulate who can enter certain areas of the facility, thereby protecting sensitive areas and ensuring the safety of patients, staff, and visitors. Access control can include physical barriers like locked doors, security personnel, identification systems, and electronic access systems that require cards or codes. This is crucial in healthcare settings where patient privacy is paramount, and security threats can arise from unauthorized individuals gaining entry. Access control ensures that only authorized personnel have access to specific areas, such as patient rooms, medical records, and medication storage. While surveillance pertains to monitoring activities within and around the facility, it does not directly manage or restrict access like access control does. Monitoring can support access control systems by providing real-time information about who is entering or exiting the facility, but it is not the act of controlling access itself. Emergency protocols, on the other hand, refer to the emergency response procedures in place during critical situations, and do not encompass the ongoing management of access to the facility. Thus, access control is the essential component for maintaining security in healthcare environments.