AARC’s Checklist for RTs Assists Them in Lower Risk of H1N1

September 9, 2009

The AARC is following the progress of preparation and treatment for patients with H1N1. The CDC has developed extensive information specific to caregivers such as respiratory therapists. The AARC has also developed a special site dedicated to the gathering and dissemination of information about H1N1. Just go to www.aarc.org/resources/H1N1 to obtain frequently updated information about the disease. This special web page also provides all the important links to government agencies including the CDC as well as an opportunity for you to share your clinical experiences related to the treatment of H1N1 patients. We’ve also put together a check list of activities you can undertake to minimize risk of exposure and to optimize treatment strategies.

H1N1—What you can do to help:

1. Frequent use of hand hygiene (use it and teach it);
2. Sneeze etiquette (use it and teach it);
3. Get all vaccinations (1 seasonal now, and 2 H1N1 when available);
4. Avoid or minimize use of aerosol generating procedures (i.e., nebulizing meds, elective intubation, suctioning, bronchoscopes);
5. Use protocols to discontinue treatment ASAP;
6. Use protocols to switch from nebulizers to MDI/DPIs ASAP;
7. Follow personal protection procedures as identified by CDC;
8. Use negative pressure rooms as recommended by CDC;
9. Advise all patients with asthma, COPD, or other diseases that compromise their immune systems to get all vaccinations, and avoid contact with the sick, if possible;
10. Prepare to treat severe ARDS, profound hypoxemia;
11. Visit AARC’s special H1N1 page for updates.