Message from the Chief Nursing Officer on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Posted 29 days ago
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed the first case of COVID-19 transmitted within the United States. This brings to 15 the total number of cases identified in the U.S. Additionally, 42 U.S. citizens were flown back to the U.S. after departing a cruise ship docked in Japan have been diagnosed as having the virus and are in quarantine. Officials are working aggressively to track and contain the virus to minimize the impact within surrounding communities and nationally. As we take action to limit the community spread of COVID-19, preparedness is key. Nurses, first responders, healthcare providers, and members of the medical team are on the frontlines every day within the community and health care systems caring for those affected. Therefore, it is essential to have updated preparedness plans and protocols outlined and ready for implementation, clearly outlined infection control guidelines, and the availability of essential personal protective equipment and guidelines for use for protection from exposure to COVID-19.
The American Nurses Association supports ongoing efforts in the investigation, monitoring, and research of COVID-19 and emphasizes the importance of healthcare systems supporting and providing prevention and preparedness measures for all members of their staff. For more information and updated guidelines on preparedness measures, the use of personal protective equipment, and the prevention of community spread visit https://www.nursingworld.org/coronavirus
We want to hear from you.
If you work in a clinical practice setting, has your employer provided a COVID-19 preparedness plan that includes how to recognize and respond to possible cases?
https://www.nursingworld.org/covid19survey
For more information and updated guidelines on preparedness measures, personal protective equipment, and the prevention of community spread, as well as information to share with your family, friends and other members of the general public who have questions about this new virus and how to best prepare should we see more cases in the United States visit these useful resources:
Healthcare Provider Preparedness Checklist
FAQs on Healthcare Infection Prevention and Control
Prevention of Community Spread
COVID-19 What You Need to Know
Regards,
Debbie Dawson Hatmaker, PhD, RN, FAAN
Chief Nursing Officer | EVP