CLOSED-CIRCUIT TV cameras could soon be installed in the children's ward at the Royal Darwin Hospital, it was revealed last night.
The hospital has been under pressure to beef up security after allegations a five-month-old baby had allegedly been interfered with while in the ward in April.
National health assessors have also recommended better security around the youngest patients.
A mid-term review conducted by the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (AHCS) said child security was one of four areas that will need to improve.
General manager Robin Michael said the hospital had investigated the installation of closed circuit television cameras, before the recommendation came.
''There was a reference to improving the monitoring of the pediatric ward, which is something we already had in hand,'' he said.
''Last week we actually got some quotes to improve security in the children's ward -- that's CCTV.''
The ACHS also pointed out occupational health and safety concerns about the way chemicals were stored and attendance at mandatory training sessions, such as fire management.
It also recommended maintenance labelling on biomedical equipment be kept up to date.
Mr Michael said all recommendations were already being worked on or are ''relatively easy targets to achieve''.
''I'm confident we won't have any outstanding concerns,'' he said.
Mr Michael said the hospital's four-year accreditation is not in danger of being revoked, although chances for renewal in 2008 are not good if recommendations are not met.
The hospital will have 60 days to comply with the recommendations on receipt of written notification.
