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Reducing bloodborne pathogen exposures remains a primary concern for employee health nurses, according to a survey of members by the Association of Occupational Health Professionals in Healthcare (AOHP).
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With persistent outbreaks but milder-than-expected disease severity, novel H1N1 posed a unique dilemma for hospitals. They first needed to assuage fear, then to prevent against complacency. They needed to monitor employee illnesses and provide adequate precautions, yet encountered varying guidance.
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Amid uncertainties about the novel H1N1 virus (swine flu), there's one clear edict: Vaccinate early and often for seasonal influenza.
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Think of the outbreak of a novel H1N1 virus this spring as a colossal pandemic preparedness drill - either for a future virus or for a stronger resurgence of the strain later this year. So, how did hospitals do in their mission to protect health care workers, including providing appropriate protective equipment, training, and communication?
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If you want your employees to report to work during a pandemic, make sure you have plenty of antiviral medications. Let them know how you'll help them manage the unique work-life balance issues of an emergency, such as child care when schools are closed. And underscore how important they are to the organization - even if their duties are clerical or custodial.
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As the Food and Drug Administration approves new drugs for new uses, the list of potential occupational hazards grows.
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A new political climate and a growing roster of state laws have given new life to efforts to mandate safe patient handling in the nation's health care system.
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The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health identified the following parameters for the effective use of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation to protect against tuberculosis:
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HIPAA alert: If you think the massive privacy law doesn't apply to employee health, take another look. The exceptions to HIPAA are very specific ones, says Karl Auerbach, MD, MS, MBA, FACOEM, associate professor of occupational and environmental medicine at the University of Rochester (NY).
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Why should your hospital invest in employee health and wellness? Answer that question in a detailed business plan and you may win support for your programs from hospital leadership.
