University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Pinnacle Hanover will suspend the use of stun guns after improperly shocking a patient under suicide watch, according to The Patriot-News.
Four things to know:
1. A patient on suicide watch kicked a nurse and threatened violence against hospital staff March 26. The patient aggressively approached a security officer, who shocked the patient twice with a stun gun.
2. The Pennsylvania Department of Health cited the hospital for using the stun gun for "healthcare intervention" rather than law enforcement and for failing to attempt milder forms of force first.
3. The health department gave the hospital an "immediate jeopardy" label, indicating that all patients were at risk due to the hospital's willingness to use stun guns. In response, the hospital announced immediate suspension of stun guns. The health department then lifted the designation.
4. UPMC Pinnacle Hanover is also implementing staff training and adjusting its policies for handling patients under stress.