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

What should staff do if they receive a bomb threat via phone?

1. Hang up immediately

2. Try to gather as much information as possible

3. Inform patients right away

4. Disable all electronic devices

The correct answer is: Try to gather as much information as possible

When a bomb threat is received via phone, it is critical for staff to try to gather as much information as possible. This approach is essential because the information obtained can be valuable for law enforcement and security personnel in determining the nature and credibility of the threat. Gathering details such as the caller's voice and any specific location, timing, or device threats can significantly aid in assessing the risk and devising an appropriate response. Information such as the caller's tone, background noise, and any additional context provided can offer insights that may help authorities effectively handle the situation. The other options, while they may seem reasonable, do not contribute effectively to managing the threat. Hanging up immediately would result in losing vital information that could assist in threat assessment and response efforts. Informing patients right away could create unnecessary panic or alarm without allowing trained personnel to assess and respond to the threat appropriately. Disabling all electronic devices could hinder communication and coordination during a crisis, making it harder to relay information to authorities or respond to the situation effectively.