By Bill Peckham
In Singapore dialysis units are implementing social distancing measures to limit the spread of H1N1 flu. In the photo accompanying the Channel News Asia story it appears that people - both patients and staff - are wearing surgical masks which is another non pharmaceutical intervention that could be used to limit the spread of the pandemic flu virus.
US dialysis providers should be discussing these and other NPIs to prepare for what looks to be a very challenging flu season just three short months away.
Bill, America at large has much to learn from what you have spent many years preparing for. I trust that you will continue to advise while there is still some time left to prepare, corporately and privately. For those on home dialysis, the time to prepare is now.
Posted by: Peter Laird, MD | July 01, 2009 at 01:05 PM
Bill, I applaude your efforts. I hope that all who read DSEN return to their units and ask what is being done to prevent the spread of infection. Are staff having patients and/or visitors wear masks who are sick? Many questions to ask. The hospital advisory council that I am involved with is already addressing the flu season, and prevention of spread but are dialysis units? At our unit, for the most part, I see patients and/or visitors often wearing masks. Prevention is imperative for staff and patients.
Roberta Mikles, RN (uncompensated) Patient Advocate
Health Care Patient Advocates
Posted by: roberta mikles | July 04, 2009 at 08:32 AM