Avian Flu---Time's A-Tickin'...Part 6

This is our sixth posting in a series to help share information about Avian flu. Information provided is taken from international and national experts from the World Health Organization, the Center for Disease Control and US Department of Health and Human Services. Some information may be concern provoking.

In a pandemic, healthcare organizations and hospitals may be overwhelmed by the sudden surge in demand for their resources and services.

The ability to deliver quality health care depends on adequate staffing and optimum health of that staff. Healthcare staff themselves may be concerned about coming to work if---or when---a pandemic flu or a different disaster occurs. Healthcare organizations and hospitals may organize mechanisms to protect staff at work in the event of a pandemic flu.

A pandemic flu plan may include:

• Refresher education on infection control practices, N95 masks (respiratory protective devices with a filter efficiency of 95%) and PAPR (Purified Air Personal Respirator) use. Computer presentations and DVDs are ideal media to develop for wide dissemination.

• Building an emergency stock of personal protective equipment (PPE). Thousands of N95 masks may be needed, extra PAPRs, and face shields. It will be good to review new technology for emergency use.

• Development of a plan for all employees to be screened for flu symptoms prior to coming into buildings or hospitals.

• A staff designated entrance to a hospital and a different single entrance point for patients will be good so staff is not exposed to ill patients when they enter the work place.

• Education for staff and employees on how to protect their family from secondary occupational exposure when they go home from work.

• How a designated department/clinic will provide mass vaccinations when the flu vaccine is available and is recommended by the state health department. Recommendations for use of antivirals should be monitored and mass dispensation clinics should be provided if indicated.

• If staff/employees stay for multiple shifts, how are they provided areas for rest? Food?

• Help for staff/employees to prepare at home. Purchasing, Safety and Employee Health are examples of departments that may work together to provide opportunity for staff/employees to purchase the majority of disaster supplies through their organization or hospital at organization/hospital cost. Supply Fairs are good vehicles for this.

Teams of people and millions of dollars are committed to continue to plan at the federal, state, regional, local and system levels.

Hundreds of issues are being addressed and the search continues for additional mechanisms to ensure healthcare workers’ health and safety.


Next Week:

Vaccine Status Update