infant security
October 2025
Overview of Hugs Infant Security System
Objectives
Demonstrate
foundational knowledge of the Hugs Infant Security System, including its components and functionality.
Explain
common alarms associated with the Hugs Infant Security System, including their causes and appropriate responses.
Articulate
the proper workflow and protocols to follow during a Hugs system malfunction to ensure continued infant security.
Demonstrate
the ability to initiate and effectively communicate a Code Pink in accordance with institutional protocols.
Describe
staff roles and responsibilities during a Code Pink scenario to ensure efficient coordination and response.
Demonstrate
an understanding of the key elements required for educating patients and families about VWCH Infant Security protocols to promote awareness and compliance.
Hugs infant security system
Hugs is an electronic system that protects infants from the threat of abduction while in the hospital.
Hugs system components
System Computer
Tag
Controller
Software
Click each + for more information before navigating to the next page.
Hugs Procedures
Key procedures when using Hugs include:
Shift Assessments
Banding
Admission
Cleaning
Discharge
Interventions
Admission
Apply the Hugs tag as close to delivery as possible and before the infant is alone in room with the caregiver(s). Place the Hugs tag on the infant’s ankle without other identification bands [typically left ankle].
The Hugs tag beeps twice indicating the battery is charged and the band is applied properly.
When Hugs tag is applied correctly, the infant is automatically enrolled in the Hugs Software. Verify the tag is active by looking for the Admit popup box on the Hugs Computer and complete admission in the Hugs Software.
banding
To apply a Hugs Tag: - Insert the band through the tag slots.Position the tag on the outside of the infant’s ankle with the round edge of the tag pointing toward the knee. - Secure and tighten band.There should be some movement of the tag, but not enough to rotate the tag or to slip the tag over the infant’s heel. - Do NOT trim band.Trimmed edges may be sharp and could injure the opposite leg.
Shift assessments
1. Check at the beginning of a shift that infant tag is securely attached.2. Assess the Hugs tag and the tag site q8h for: - appropriate fit- signs of skin irritation3. Document elements of Newborn ID and Safety in your Newborn All Doc Flowsheet.
interventions
Tighten band by grasping the end of the band and pulling gently until a secure fit is obtained. Remove the tag and apply a new band with an appropriate fit.
Remove band and rotate hugs tag site immediately.
Too loose
Too tight
Skin irritation
Discharge
REMEMBER Removing the Hugs Tag is the LAST thing you do before discharging the infant.
1. Discharge the tag/infant from the Hugs software.2. Cut the band. 3. Push band pieces out from the bottom of the tag and put disposable band in trash. 4. Clean the Hugs tag for re-use and ensure the tag is dried completely. 5. Place the Hugs tag in the charger. 6. Verify the charging LED turns yellow indicating correct placement in the charger.
Cleaning
Use Clorox wipes to disinfect, not purple wipes. If dirt is present, use a diposable soft bristled brush (e.g., toothbrush) to gently clean. Wipe dry with a soft, clean cloth.
Alerts signal an important RISK to the security of the infant and must be responded to IMMEDIATELY.
HUGS Alarms
Exit alarm
Door ajar event
Loiter Event
fire alarm
*Critical Alarm* An infant/tag comes too close to or passes through an open monitored exit.
Response:
- Identify exit location on the Hugs computer.
- Locate and determine safety of infant.
- Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed.
Staff members respond to all exit doors of the unit to monitor exit of staff, patients, and visitors.
Staff not responding to exit doors follow the established Fire Safety and Red Alert policy.
Newborn Nursery staff should verify the location of every infant in their respective areas.
A monitored exit door remains open for too long.
Response:
- Identify exit location on the Hugs computer.
- Close identified exit.
- Alert auto-clears when the door is closed.
An infant/tag is near a closed, monitored exit for too long.
Response:
- Identify infant/tag information and exit location on the Hugs computer.
- Direct infant away from the monitored exit.
- Alert auto-clears when infant is a safe distance away from the monitored exit.
HUGS Alarms
Tamper
Tag Loose
Check Tag Tightness
Supervision
*Critical Alarm* Contact between a tag and the band is damaged or broken.
Response: - Identify infant/tag on the Hugs computer.
- Locate and determine safety of infant.
- Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed.
- Assess the need to replace the Hugs band.
Tag fails to communicate with the Hugs system for a specific amount of time.
Response:
- Identify infant/tag on the Hugs computer.
- Locate and determine safety of infant.
- Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed.
- Staff will involve Charge Nurse to determine system issue if alarm continues.
Hugs tag loses contact with the infant’s skin for too long.
Response: - Identify infant/tag on the Hugs computer.
- Locate and determine safety of infant.
- Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed.
- Assess need to tighten or replace Hugs band.
Tag is too loose and cannot “sense” contact with infant.
Response: - Identify infant/tag on the Hugs computer. - Locate and determine safety of infant.
- Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed. - Assess need to replace Hugs band.
REMEMBER
If an alert occurs and an infant CANNOT be FOUND; immediately initiate CODE PINK by calling x1111.
CRITICALLY IMPORTANT
ALWAYS
NEVER
NEVER
turn the Hugs computer volume down or off!
clear an alarm that hasn't been properly investigated!
respond IMMEDIATELY to a Hugs System alarm!
Hugs Malfunction
What do you need to do if Hugs isn't working properly?
1. Determine which Women's Services doors are affected. 2. Send staff to guard the affected door(s). 3. Notify the Administrative Coordinator (house sup). 4. Notify unit leadership. 5. Call the HELP DESK, they are responsible for the Hugs Computer System: - Dial 615-343-HELP (4357) then, - Select Option 26. In coordination with nursery staff, verify the presence, location and identity of ALL infants on the unit.
Hugs frequently asked questions
What if I don’t hear a double beep when applying the Hugs tag to an infant?
How do I remove a damaged or dirty band from an infant without setting off an alarm?
How can the Charge Nurse report a Hugs malfunction to the Help Desk after business hours?
Double Beep
Change Band
After Hours
Click each + for more information before navigating to the next page.
Did you know?
Code PINK: missing infant < 12 months of age
Code Red affects all locked doors on the unit. You should react to this code as though it was a Code Pink. Remember: when it comes to a Code, RED = PINK
Every staff member has a responsibility to act and is expected to follow the Code Pink algorithm as indicated per unit policy.
A successful Code Pink requires prior planning and strong teamwork among units. Your role in the planning is to be familiar with the Code Pink algorithm and the designated stations on your unit.
Code Pink: Door Locations
Typical abductor
- Overweight female
- Age 12-50
- Married
- Compulsive
- Impersonates a healthcare worker
- Lost a child or pregnancy
- Lives in the community
- Performs reconnaissance visits
- Asks questions regarding the nursery
- Uses a fire exit
Response
Code PINK
You've been advised there's a missing infant: 1. Activate Code Pink, dial x1111 2. Assign someone to the family member of the missing infant and: - Get a description of the missing infant: sex, age, race, clothing- Find out the time and location infant was last seen - STAY with the family member and serve as their primary point of contact for information3. Assign staff to appropriate locations on the unit 4. Verify the location of all babies on the unit: - Locate all active Hugs tags - Physically locate all babies - Ensure stable babies are in rooms with their mothers
Suspect
Code PINK
What do you do if you identify a suspect that may be carrying or concealing the missing infant?
CANCEL
Code PINK
EDUCATION
REMEMBER Educating our patients and families about restricted areas and Hugs tag policies reduces the number of accidental alarms. REDUCE alarm fatigue!!
Educate patient/family about: - The reason for the Infant Security System. - The process for admitting the infant into Hugs. - The process that occurs if an alarm is activated. - Not to loiter near doors or exits. - The exit door alarming if opened for extended time period. - The process for discharging infant in Hugs.
You should also educate patients and family that the ONLY staff authorized to handle their infant are staff with a PINK STRIPE on their badge.
Did you know?
Interactive Question
references
Missing Person/Abduction Response on a Vanderbilt Health Regional Hospital or Clinic Campus Policy - Regional Hospitals Stanley Healthcare. (2020). Hugs Infant Protection Brochure.http://www.stanleyhealthcare.com/sites/stanleyhealthcare.com/files/2020-01/DOC-18-44405-AE_Hugs%20Brochure%202020.pdf Stanley Healthcare. (2020). Hugs and Kisses Approved Cleaning Materials. https://blog.stanleyhealthcare.com/sites/stanleyhealthcare.com/files/2020-03/0970-090-000-E_Hugs_Approved_Cleaning_Materials.pdf
Rabun JB Jr. For Healthcare Professionals: Guidelines on Prevention of and Response to Infant Abductions, 8th edition. National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, 2005. https://pnce.org/documents/57315-157_AdditionalResource.pdf
Thank you!
Click X Exit Lesson in the upper right corner.
- Installed above or next to exits
- Prevents Tag exit
- Stand alone mode prohibits Tag exit when there is no connection to the hospital’s WiFi
Double check band for proper application. If band is applied appropriately, remove the tag from service and give it to the Hugs System Administrator. Apply new Hugs tag to infant.
- View and edit enrolled infants
- Search for and locate Hugs Tags/infants
- Transport and Discharge tagged infants
Critical Hugs System Computers located at: - Nursery Desk - L&D Desk - Postpartum Desk
- Applied to the infant’s ankle using a disposable band
- Activates when properly applied
- Average 2-week charge life
Click “Suspend Tamper” in the Hugs software. Remove the tag immediately by cutting and removing the band pieces. Using the same tag, apply new band. Click “Resume Tamper” in Hugs software.
The Health IT department is responsible for the Hugs Infant Security and has personnel on duty 24/7 to help troubleshoot issues.
Hugs Infant Security
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Transcript
infant security
October 2025
Overview of Hugs Infant Security System
Objectives
Demonstrate
foundational knowledge of the Hugs Infant Security System, including its components and functionality.
Explain
common alarms associated with the Hugs Infant Security System, including their causes and appropriate responses.
Articulate
the proper workflow and protocols to follow during a Hugs system malfunction to ensure continued infant security.
Demonstrate
the ability to initiate and effectively communicate a Code Pink in accordance with institutional protocols.
Describe
staff roles and responsibilities during a Code Pink scenario to ensure efficient coordination and response.
Demonstrate
an understanding of the key elements required for educating patients and families about VWCH Infant Security protocols to promote awareness and compliance.
Hugs infant security system
Hugs is an electronic system that protects infants from the threat of abduction while in the hospital.
Hugs system components
System Computer
Tag
Controller
Software
Click each + for more information before navigating to the next page.
Hugs Procedures
Key procedures when using Hugs include:
Shift Assessments
Banding
Admission
Cleaning
Discharge
Interventions
Admission
Apply the Hugs tag as close to delivery as possible and before the infant is alone in room with the caregiver(s). Place the Hugs tag on the infant’s ankle without other identification bands [typically left ankle]. The Hugs tag beeps twice indicating the battery is charged and the band is applied properly. When Hugs tag is applied correctly, the infant is automatically enrolled in the Hugs Software. Verify the tag is active by looking for the Admit popup box on the Hugs Computer and complete admission in the Hugs Software.
banding
To apply a Hugs Tag: - Insert the band through the tag slots.Position the tag on the outside of the infant’s ankle with the round edge of the tag pointing toward the knee. - Secure and tighten band.There should be some movement of the tag, but not enough to rotate the tag or to slip the tag over the infant’s heel. - Do NOT trim band.Trimmed edges may be sharp and could injure the opposite leg.
Shift assessments
1. Check at the beginning of a shift that infant tag is securely attached.2. Assess the Hugs tag and the tag site q8h for: - appropriate fit- signs of skin irritation3. Document elements of Newborn ID and Safety in your Newborn All Doc Flowsheet.
interventions
Tighten band by grasping the end of the band and pulling gently until a secure fit is obtained. Remove the tag and apply a new band with an appropriate fit. Remove band and rotate hugs tag site immediately.
Too loose
Too tight
Skin irritation
Discharge
REMEMBER Removing the Hugs Tag is the LAST thing you do before discharging the infant.
1. Discharge the tag/infant from the Hugs software.2. Cut the band. 3. Push band pieces out from the bottom of the tag and put disposable band in trash. 4. Clean the Hugs tag for re-use and ensure the tag is dried completely. 5. Place the Hugs tag in the charger. 6. Verify the charging LED turns yellow indicating correct placement in the charger.
Cleaning
Use Clorox wipes to disinfect, not purple wipes. If dirt is present, use a diposable soft bristled brush (e.g., toothbrush) to gently clean. Wipe dry with a soft, clean cloth.
Alerts signal an important RISK to the security of the infant and must be responded to IMMEDIATELY.
HUGS Alarms
Exit alarm
Door ajar event
Loiter Event
fire alarm
*Critical Alarm* An infant/tag comes too close to or passes through an open monitored exit. Response: - Identify exit location on the Hugs computer. - Locate and determine safety of infant. - Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed.
Staff members respond to all exit doors of the unit to monitor exit of staff, patients, and visitors. Staff not responding to exit doors follow the established Fire Safety and Red Alert policy. Newborn Nursery staff should verify the location of every infant in their respective areas.
A monitored exit door remains open for too long. Response: - Identify exit location on the Hugs computer. - Close identified exit. - Alert auto-clears when the door is closed.
An infant/tag is near a closed, monitored exit for too long. Response: - Identify infant/tag information and exit location on the Hugs computer. - Direct infant away from the monitored exit. - Alert auto-clears when infant is a safe distance away from the monitored exit.
HUGS Alarms
Tamper
Tag Loose
Check Tag Tightness
Supervision
*Critical Alarm* Contact between a tag and the band is damaged or broken. Response: - Identify infant/tag on the Hugs computer. - Locate and determine safety of infant. - Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed. - Assess the need to replace the Hugs band.
Tag fails to communicate with the Hugs system for a specific amount of time. Response: - Identify infant/tag on the Hugs computer. - Locate and determine safety of infant. - Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed. - Staff will involve Charge Nurse to determine system issue if alarm continues.
Hugs tag loses contact with the infant’s skin for too long. Response: - Identify infant/tag on the Hugs computer. - Locate and determine safety of infant. - Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed. - Assess need to tighten or replace Hugs band.
Tag is too loose and cannot “sense” contact with infant. Response: - Identify infant/tag on the Hugs computer. - Locate and determine safety of infant. - Clear alarm ONLY after infant safety is confirmed. - Assess need to replace Hugs band.
REMEMBER
If an alert occurs and an infant CANNOT be FOUND; immediately initiate CODE PINK by calling x1111.
CRITICALLY IMPORTANT
ALWAYS
NEVER
NEVER
turn the Hugs computer volume down or off!
clear an alarm that hasn't been properly investigated!
respond IMMEDIATELY to a Hugs System alarm!
Hugs Malfunction
What do you need to do if Hugs isn't working properly?
1. Determine which Women's Services doors are affected. 2. Send staff to guard the affected door(s). 3. Notify the Administrative Coordinator (house sup). 4. Notify unit leadership. 5. Call the HELP DESK, they are responsible for the Hugs Computer System: - Dial 615-343-HELP (4357) then, - Select Option 26. In coordination with nursery staff, verify the presence, location and identity of ALL infants on the unit.
Hugs frequently asked questions
What if I don’t hear a double beep when applying the Hugs tag to an infant?
How do I remove a damaged or dirty band from an infant without setting off an alarm?
How can the Charge Nurse report a Hugs malfunction to the Help Desk after business hours?
Double Beep
Change Band
After Hours
Click each + for more information before navigating to the next page.
Did you know?
Code PINK: missing infant < 12 months of age
Code Red affects all locked doors on the unit. You should react to this code as though it was a Code Pink. Remember: when it comes to a Code, RED = PINK
Every staff member has a responsibility to act and is expected to follow the Code Pink algorithm as indicated per unit policy. A successful Code Pink requires prior planning and strong teamwork among units. Your role in the planning is to be familiar with the Code Pink algorithm and the designated stations on your unit.
Code Pink: Door Locations
Typical abductor
Response
Code PINK
You've been advised there's a missing infant: 1. Activate Code Pink, dial x1111 2. Assign someone to the family member of the missing infant and: - Get a description of the missing infant: sex, age, race, clothing- Find out the time and location infant was last seen - STAY with the family member and serve as their primary point of contact for information3. Assign staff to appropriate locations on the unit 4. Verify the location of all babies on the unit: - Locate all active Hugs tags - Physically locate all babies - Ensure stable babies are in rooms with their mothers
Suspect
Code PINK
What do you do if you identify a suspect that may be carrying or concealing the missing infant?
CANCEL
Code PINK
EDUCATION
REMEMBER Educating our patients and families about restricted areas and Hugs tag policies reduces the number of accidental alarms. REDUCE alarm fatigue!!
Educate patient/family about: - The reason for the Infant Security System. - The process for admitting the infant into Hugs. - The process that occurs if an alarm is activated. - Not to loiter near doors or exits. - The exit door alarming if opened for extended time period. - The process for discharging infant in Hugs.
You should also educate patients and family that the ONLY staff authorized to handle their infant are staff with a PINK STRIPE on their badge.
Did you know?
Interactive Question
references
Missing Person/Abduction Response on a Vanderbilt Health Regional Hospital or Clinic Campus Policy - Regional Hospitals Stanley Healthcare. (2020). Hugs Infant Protection Brochure.http://www.stanleyhealthcare.com/sites/stanleyhealthcare.com/files/2020-01/DOC-18-44405-AE_Hugs%20Brochure%202020.pdf Stanley Healthcare. (2020). Hugs and Kisses Approved Cleaning Materials. https://blog.stanleyhealthcare.com/sites/stanleyhealthcare.com/files/2020-03/0970-090-000-E_Hugs_Approved_Cleaning_Materials.pdf Rabun JB Jr. For Healthcare Professionals: Guidelines on Prevention of and Response to Infant Abductions, 8th edition. National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, 2005. https://pnce.org/documents/57315-157_AdditionalResource.pdf
Thank you!
Click X Exit Lesson in the upper right corner.
- Installed above or next to exits - Prevents Tag exit - Stand alone mode prohibits Tag exit when there is no connection to the hospital’s WiFi
Double check band for proper application. If band is applied appropriately, remove the tag from service and give it to the Hugs System Administrator. Apply new Hugs tag to infant.
- View and edit enrolled infants - Search for and locate Hugs Tags/infants - Transport and Discharge tagged infants
Critical Hugs System Computers located at: - Nursery Desk - L&D Desk - Postpartum Desk
- Applied to the infant’s ankle using a disposable band - Activates when properly applied - Average 2-week charge life
Click “Suspend Tamper” in the Hugs software. Remove the tag immediately by cutting and removing the band pieces. Using the same tag, apply new band. Click “Resume Tamper” in Hugs software.
The Health IT department is responsible for the Hugs Infant Security and has personnel on duty 24/7 to help troubleshoot issues.