N95 Fit for H1N1
According to the free encyclopedia Wikipedia risk management is defined as "the identification, assessment, and prioritization of risks
followed by coordinated and economical application of resources to minimize, monitor, and control the probability and/or impact of
unfortunate events." In the context of health and safety, influenza pandemics pose a significant danger.
With recent attention on H1N1, 16 nursing leaders from five United Methodist Homes' communities and the corporate office participated
in an N95 respirator fit testing training. N95 is specifically designed to help prevent the spread of illness, protect those without
symptoms and other groups deemed vulnerable or at higher risk.
This training represents an array of measures outlined in the Homes H1N1 Pandemic Contingency Plan. John Kiefner, vice president risk
control at Johnson, Kendall and Johnson led the training. After demonstrating the proper technique on Joann Orosz, special assistant
for quality, staff fitted one another to thoroughly learn the process.
Major components of the UMH H1N1 Plan include:
- Pandemic training for residents, family members and staff
- Assisting staff in developing personal pandemic plans for their homes and families
- Stockpiling personal protective equipment and key supplies for use during outbreaks
- Developing and strengthening relationships with state, county and local health departments and offices of emergency management
- Developing memorandums of understanding with key vendors and suppliers
- Developing staffing plans during H1N1 outbreaks
Ellie Kinsey, vice president operations, stated, "United Methodist Homes is working diligently with numerous emergency response partners
to ensure that our residents, staff and staff families remain as healthy as possible during the coming seasonal and H1N1 influenzas."