Press Staff Writer
In an effort to reinforce a safe and secure work environment for associates, Mercy Health has launched Cellular 911, a smart, wearable duress button that allows associates to discreetly call for help with a tap of their badge.
Using existing Wi-Fi networks and real-time location tracking, Cellular 911 instantly alerts site-specific response teams, including hospital security and law enforcement, allowing them to respond to escalating situations within seconds.
Unlike traditional fixed panic buttons, the wearable device stays with associates throughout their shift, so help is within reach wherever they work.
“At Mercy Health, safety is at the core of our culture – for both our employees and our patients,” said Jeff Dempsey, president, Mercy Health – St. Vincent Medical Center. “With Cellular 911, a simple double tap of the badge brings peace of mind, knowing support is on the way. This investment is one more way we’re creating a secure, supportive environment where our teams can thrive, and our patients can heal.”
According to a 2024 report from National Nurses United, 81.6% of nurses have experienced some form of workplace violence in the past year, and 36.2% have been physically hit at work. Mercy Health maintains a zero-tolerance policy to violence against its associates, and this technology is a critical step in reinforcing a safe and supportive environment across all sites of care, Dempsey said.
Sue Pratt, RN, a Mercy Health nurse and chairwoman of UAW Local 2213, expressed support for technology designed to keep nurses safe while caring for their patients.
“UAW Local 2213 supports this initiative and new technology as another means to protect our members and the patients we are privileged to care for. The safety of the nurses we represent and our community has always been our priority as well, and we support any and all efforts to increase safety and security in our workplaces,” Pratt said.
Mercy Health will first introduce the Cellular 911 devices to teams at St. Vincent Medical Center. Associates who participated in pilot programs across the Mercy Health footprint have already reported a heightened sense of safety and reduced stress, knowing they can quickly summon support when they need it most.
“Every associate deserves to feel safe when they come to work. Tools like Cellular 911 provide peace of mind and ensure our teams are never alone in a moment of need,” said Deb Bryant, chief nursing officer, Mercy Health – Toledo. “This is more than a device — it’s a promise. A promise that Mercy Health will always put associate safety first.”
This initiative is supported by a well-being grant funded through the Mercy Health associate health plan. Learn more about Mercy Health at www.mercy.com.
