Safe area?

Published

Hi everyone, I have a big decision to make. I was hired at Bronx-Lebanon hospital, and I want to work there, but some people are telling me that it is located in a dangerous area (on the grand concourse at 175th st.) and I shouldn't go there. I dont know what to do b/c I really want this job, but amybe they are right. My boyfriend says if someone begins to see a pattern of me getting off the train at the same time at night( I'll work nights, so thats when I'll get there) they might know my routine and plan an attack. I know I sound a little too freaked out, but I just hadn't considered the area as unsafe and now people are telling me they are scared for me...Does anyone know if they are being realistic, or just worrying too much?

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in acute care.

I hope someone else will be able to answer your question properly. My advice to be to go to the hospital at night and see if the area surrounding the hospital is well light, etc. I live in an area (Queens) that people would consider safe. I have always felt safe walking through my area late at night. That is until a few days ago when I woman was attacked only 5 blocks away from me. I no longer feel "safe", especially since the attacker has yet to be caught. I now know that you don't have to live in an "unsafe" area to be attacked.

It sounds like you really want to work there. What vibe did you get when you went to interview? Did the area seem dangerous to you? Is it too far a walk from the train station or bus? Answer these questions when you decide whether or not to work there. In addition, you can always speak to other nurses and B-L workers and get their opinions about the area.

Hi everyone, I have a big decision to make. I was hired at Bronx-Lebanon hospital, and I want to work there, but some people are telling me that it is located in a dangerous area (on the grand concourse at 175th st.) and I shouldn't go there. I dont know what to do b/c I really want this job, but amybe they are right. My boyfriend says if someone begins to see a pattern of me getting off the train at the same time at night( I'll work nights, so thats when I'll get there) they might know my routine and plan an attack. I know I sound a little too freaked out, but I just hadn't considered the area as unsafe and now people are telling me they are scared for me...Does anyone know if they are being realistic, or just worrying too much?
Up Vote Up Vote ×

JennyMac,

Hi, I used to work 10 blocks away on 165 and did not have any problems. And my father works at the nursing home on 167 and grandcourse for 20 years and everything has been great. You will find crime anywhere, whether it's the suburbs or an urban area.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I honestly feel you will be okay. You really can't avoid crime anywhere you go. The Grand Concourse is a big block and police officers are usually right there.

Up Vote Up Vote ×
Specializes in ALS, LTC, Home Health.

Might i suggest that you do not let yourself fall into a routine as to arrival and departure times. I know you start and finish times are set but do not arrive at the hosp. at the same time each day. Show up early and hang out till your start time. But vary the arrival times. Also when leaving vary the time you leave the hospital. I know the trains have set schedules so work within the times the train runs. Also vary your appearance. Different coats, hats, items you carry. And make the changes random.

One of the biggest things they taught me to do, due to a job I had in the military was not to have a set routine. As you stated people will watch and notice the routine but if you vary your routine randomly it is less likely to be noticed.

Good luck with the job.

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Thanks for your advice and opinions, everyone!!!

Up Vote Up Vote ×

Hi JennyMac,

I used to live near the area on 167 and my sis was hospitalized there. As far as the area it isn't the best area in the world but it isnt the worst. If you take the D train to 174(the stop for the hospital) its an easy walk and the streets are pretty busy with people. But if you take the 4 train its a little further and more of walk in a crappier area. There are a lot of stores that close around 7 and after that it becomes pretty deserted except for illegal activity that occuring. If you stay on the concourse and on the D line you shouldn't have any problems.

However I do agree with everyone else don't create a routine, this can be applied anywhere you work.

Hope this helps if you need more info PM me.

Future RN

Up Vote Up Vote ×

I live near Fordham Road and even though I'm about 15-20 blocks away I'm familiar with the area. Like a previous poster said before it isn't the worst area nor the best. The D train is close by and it seems the area is well lit and the grand concourse for the most part always has people around. I wouldn't worry too much.

Good Luck

Up Vote Up Vote ×
+ Join the Discussion