Prepared to Tackle World Health Issues

By Debra Wilden, RN, CCRN, BSN

Trinity Hospital Twin City has procedures in place at all times to handle disease outbreaks, treatment of victims of natural disasters, and etc. Furthermore, hospital staff participates in “disaster drills” regularly to test these disaster preparedness procedures. Part of disaster preparedness involves keeping informed about healthcare issues around the world and making sure the hospital is equipped to handle challenges.

To address the recent world news of the Ebola-HF virus, Trinity Hospital Twin City Emergency Preparedness Director, Debra Wilden, has developed a written plan for the education of staff regarding disease symptoms, isolation, and treatment. The hospital is well prepared for any disaster or emergency at any time. The plan for this disease simply builds on our “ready” status.

Hospital staff that work in critical areas has learned the proper personal protective equipment to use in a potential exposure. The hospital has a very adequate supply of this equipment to protect staff, patients, and visitors.

Staff education on Ebola-HF includes obtaining a detailed history from the patient regarding current symptoms, any out-of-the-country travelling, or possible exposure to someone with the virus. The symptoms are many and varied, and are very similar to many other virus-caused illnesses. That is what makes the patient history so important. Isolation methods are reviewed by staff for use in determining what method is required. Treatment options are discussed in the plan, and required supplies are well-stocked.

As always, Trinity Hospital Twin City keeps well informed about healthcare issues here at home and around the world.

For more information on the Ebola-HF virus, you can go to the CDC website at www.cdc.gov.

Debra Wilden, RN, CCRN, BSN, Trinity Hospital Twin City Director of Emergency Services & Emergency Preparedness.