Swine Flu Update

TO: All Staff
FROM: Chief Vance
RE: Swine Flu Precautions
DATE: April 28, 2009

With cases of the swine flu now suspected in Indiana, we all need to be on the same page when it comes to dealing with suspected cases.

Please observe the flowing as policy:

Request additional information from Dispatch when sent to respiratory, sick person and fever related calls if limited initial dispatch information is provided.

Perform initial interview of all patients from at least 6 feet (2 meters) away to determine if personal protective equipment precautions are necessary.

Place a mask on all patients with suspected influenza symptoms before approach. Use a surgical mask or, when oxygen is required, a non-rebreather mask.

Avoid droplet producing procedures whenever possible including nebulizers, bag-valve-mask, suctioning or intubation. If bag-valve-masks are needed, use BVMs with HEPA filters whenever possible.

Recommended PPE for taking care of ill/potentially infected patients includes: gloves and N95 or better respirators. PPE should be donned and doffed according to published guidelines to prevent cross contamination, including faceshield/eye and gown protection when splash or airborne contamination is possible.

Alert receiving hospital personnel of the possibility of an infectious patient as soon as possible and hold suspected infectious patients in the ambulance until their destination in the hospital is known, rather than immediately moving them into the emergency department.

Perform a thorough cleaning of the stretcher, ambo and all equipment that has come in contact with or been within 6 feet (2 meters) with an approved disinfectant, upon completion of the call following CDC interim guidelines for cleaning EMS transport vehicles (www.pandemicflu.gov/plan/healthcare/cleaning_ems.html).

Wash your hands and use anti-bacterial lotions as soon as gloves and other PPE have been doffed.

Report any suspected cases of the swine flu to the on duty Battalion Chief and Fire Chief immediately.