Which action is taken during an Active Shooter Alert?

In the context of an Active Shooter Alert, the action of instructing staff to avoid areas and implement a lockdown procedure is critical for ensuring the safety of both patients and staff. During such a dangerous and unpredictable situation, the priority is to create a secure environment by restricting access to the area where the threat may be present.

Lockdown procedures generally involve securing doors, turning off lights, and advising individuals to remain quiet and out of sight, thereby minimizing the risk of exposure to potential harm. By keeping everyone in a safe location, the likelihood of individuals encountering the active shooter is reduced, which significantly enhances the safety of the facility.

Taking immediate actions such as evacuating patients or attempting to notify law enforcement without ensuring a secure area could lead to chaos and increase the risk of injury. These actions may also distract response teams, which could be detrimental in a high-stress situation. Thus, implementing a lockdown is the appropriate measure during such alerts, since it prioritizes safety above all.