II. Lessons Learned
Supplement C: Preparedness and Response In Healthcare Facilities
Public Health Guidance for Community-Level Preparedness and Response to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) Version 2/3
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The following lessons from the global experience with SARS-CoV in healthcare settings have been considered in developing this document:
- Strict adherence to contact and droplet precautions, along with eye protection, seems to prevent SARS-CoV transmission in most instances. Airborne precautions may provide additional protection in some instances.
- Undetected cases of SARS-CoV disease in staff, patients, and visitors contribute to rapid spread of the virus.
- Optimal control efforts require continuous analysis of the dynamics of SARS-CoV transmission in the facility and the community.
- A response to SARS can strain the resources and capacity of a healthcare facility.
- The social and psychological impact of SARS can be substantial, both during and after an outbreak.
- The most effective systems for controlling a nosocomial outbreak are those that are developed and tested before an outbreak occurs.
- Communication needs can overwhelm and paralyze response capacity; good information management strategies are essential to an efficient and effective response.
Related Pages
- Summary
- I. Rationale and Goals
- II. Lessons Learned
- III. Preparedness Planning for Healthcare Facilities
- IV. Recommended Preparedness and Response Activities in Healthcare Facilities
- V. Community Healthcare Delivery Issues
- References
- Appendix C1: Matrices for SARS Response in Healthcare Facilities
- Appendix C2: Checklist for SARS Preparedness in Healthcare Facilities
- Page last reviewed: May 3, 2005
- Page last updated: May 3, 2005
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