Hospital Employee Health
RSSArticles
A Veteran Nurse Becomes a Patient, Faces Down COVID-19
A long-time nurse knew to remain calm and turn her healing power inward as she fought COVID-19 in isolation for six long days in a hospital.
CDC Tips to Recognize and Cope with Stress
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has posted information for healthcare personnel on coping with stress and building resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The ‘Parallel Pandemic’: Clinicians May Face Post-Traumatic Stress
Medical experts are expecting a second wave of mental health issues to hit healthcare workers after the novel coronavirus abates. Some are warning that a “parallel pandemic” of post-traumatic stress will beset healthcare workers who witnessed COVID-19 deaths and suffering in patients and colleagues.
Worker Bill of Rights in Pandemic
A union representing 15,000 healthcare workers in California has issued a “bill of rights” demanding the levels of testing and personal protective equipment needed to provide a safe workplace in the coronavirus pandemic.
Group Issues Guidance on PPE Pressure Injuries
The bruised faces of healthcare workers have become a badge of courage, the price they are willing to pay for wearing respirators, masks, and other personal protective equipment over long work shifts caring for COVID-19 patients.
FDA: Do Not Use Antibody Tests to Diagnose COVID-19
While antibody tests are broadly seen as a way to determine immunity and exposure to the pandemic coronavirus, the Food and Drug Administration recently warned that tests should not be used as the “sole basis to diagnose COVID-19.”
The Risk of COVID-19 to Pregnant Healthcare Personnel
Are there recommended work restrictions for pregnant healthcare personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is somewhat equivocal on the issue, essentially saying no heightened risk has been clearly established, but the known risk from similar viruses and influenza warrants caution.
Three National Surveys Document PPE Shortages
Three different national surveys revealed widespread shortages of personal protective equipment and other critical hospital supplies, a situation the president of the American Nurses Association compared to going into battle without armor.
CDC Recommends Universal Masking
In another new normal of the COVID-19 pandemic, all healthcare personnel should wear surgical masks throughout their entire shift, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends. Moreover, patients should be actively screened for fever before entering the facility and wear their own mask or be provided one to receive care.
CDC Issues Return to Work Guidelines for Healthcare Personnel
Employee health professionals should consider their local situation with the coronavirus in using one of the two recommended options: a test-based method or a non-test-based method.