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Intensive Care Medicine

Published in:

01-04-2010

Chapter 6. Protection of patients and staff during a pandemic

Authors: Bruce L. Taylor, Hugh E. Montgomery, Andrew Rhodes, Charles L. Sprung

Published in: Intensive Care Medicine | Special Issue 1/2010

Abstract

Purpose

To provide recommendations and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital preparations for an influenza pandemic or mass disaster with a specific focus on protection of patients and staff.

Methods

Based on a literature review and expert opinion, a Delphi process was used to define the essential topics including protection of patients and staff.

Results

Key recommendations include: (1) prepare infection control and occupational health policies for clinical risks relating to potential disease transmission; (2) decrease clinical risks and provide adequate facilities through advanced planning to maximise capacity by increasing essential equipment, drugs, supplies and encouraging staff availability; (3) create robust systems to maintain staff confidence and safety by minimising non-clinical risks and maintaining or escalating essential services; (4) prepare formal reassurance plans for legal protection; (5) provide assistance to staff working outside their normal domains.

Conclusions

Judicious planning and adoption of protocols for protection of patients and staff are necessary to optimise outcomes during a pandemic.

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Title: Chapter 6. Protection of patients and staff during a pandemic
Authors: Bruce L. Taylor
Hugh E. Montgomery
Andrew Rhodes
Charles L. Sprung
Publication date: 01-04-2010
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Intensive Care Medicine / Issue Special Issue 1/2010
Print ISSN: 0342-4642
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1238
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00134-010-1764-1

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Chapter 6. Protection of patients and staff during a pandemic

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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