Discussion: View Thread

Name of the session and presenter:

a.     Session Name: Identify, Isolate and Inform: Applying Joint Commission Standards for Special Pathogens

b.     Presenter: Christina Arguinchona, MSN, RN, CCRN-K and Cassie Prather, MPH, CIC

2)      3 Key Learnings from the Session

This presentation was full of great information! The presenters aimed to clarify the Joint Commission standard for high-consequence infectious diseases and facilities responsibilities related to the standard for preparedness and response. Three key learnings/reminders discussed that have encouraged our team to share or review in internal practice include:

a.        Identify-ensure or established process for:

·         signage at points of entry to encourage use of mask for symptomatic patients

·         screening for signs and symptoms and travel history and other risk factors

b.        Isolate-develop a step-by-step process for staff to isolate the patient and alert other healthcare worker of the precautions needed:

·         Place patient in a private room

·         Place isolation signage at the door

c.        Inform-determine who needs to know:  

·         Internal communications

·         External communications (public health, EMS)

3)      How you are going to apply those learnings

a.      Our team has actively been working to address gaps identified to meet the Joint Commission standard and to best protect our patients and staff. This presentation supported some of the things we are currently working on and provided clarification for points of confusion. This presentation was much appreciated!!