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CDC releases EMS checklist for detecting, managing Ebola

Monday, October 13, 2014 9:29 AM | PAAW Administrator (Administrator)
The guidelines highlight key areas to enhance overall preparation and response to potential or diagnosed Ebola patients


The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently released a checklist aimed at preparing EMS agencies to recognize and treat patients with Ebola.


Highlights include:

  • Train all EMS personnel on how to identify signs and symptoms of Ebola infections and to avoid risk of exposure
  • Consider travelers with fever, fatigue, vomiting and/or diarrhea and returning from affected West African countries as potential cases, and obtain additional history.
  • Post screening criteria in conspicuous locations in EMS units, at EMS stations, and in other locations frequented by EMS personnel (see suggested screening criteria).
  • Designate points of contact within their EMS organization/system responsible for communicating with state and local public health officials. Remember: Ebola must be reported to local, state, and federal public health authorities.
  • Conduct a detailed inventory of available supplies of PPE suitable for standard, contact, and droplet precautions. Ensure an adequate supply, for EMS personnel, of:
    • Fluid resistant or impermeable gowns
    • Gloves
    • Shoe covers, boots, and booties
  • Maintain an appropriate combination of the following:
    • Eye protection (face shield or goggles)
    • Facemasks (goggles or face shield must be worn with facemasks)
    • N95 respirators (for use during aerosol-generating procedures)
    • Other infection control supplies (e.g. hand hygiene supplies).
  • Ensure procedures are in place to require that all EMS personnel accompanying a patient in a transport unit are wearing (at minimum): gloves, gown (fluid resistant or impermeable), eye protection (goggles or face shield), and a facemask
  • Review, develop, and implement plans for: adequate respiratory support, safe administration of medication, and sharps procedures; and reinforce proper biohazard containment and disposal precautions
  • Plan for regular situational briefs for decision-makers, including:
    • PUI for Ebola who have been identified and reported to public health authorities
    • Isolation, quarantine and exposure reports
    • Supplies and logistical challenges
    • Personnel status
    • Policy decisions on contingency plans and staffing​​

​​Read the full checklist


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