Recommended by the CDC, hospital isolation guidelines for patients with H1N1 influenza

Our hospitals now have an even greater challenge in infection control; isolating flu patients. There is much to be said in the area of infection control. Especially when it comes to the hospital environment. The critical awareness and the implementation of infection control practices is not new to a hospital environment. However, there is now a heightened awareness related to the H1N1 influenza and; it has brought into play additional guidance from the {CDC} Center for Disease Control.

Using a hierarchy of control to prevent influenza , there are now recommendations in place. The "Pandemic Plans for 2009-2010 fall/winter influenza season." With a view of the larger picture, the health care environment will follow the new and improved guidelines for infection control.

1} Ranking the highest in the hierarchy of control . Is the elimination of potential exposures.

*The goal is to minimize outpatient visits to those with mild influenza.

*Most hospitals have begun to screen visitors to patients who are ill, as well as preventing the ill visitor into the hospital with elective visits.

* Precautions Include requiring all ill health care personnel and workers to stay home.

* The addition of multi lingual signage at entry points of hospitals, instructing visitors about the hospital policies.

*Limit the points of entry into the hospital.

*All patients with symptoms of the influenza. Should be isolated from the general hospital population through triage, and provided private rooms or areas.

* The use diagnostic testing only where indicated.

*Incorporate into care the use of face masks, with on going patient education regarding precautions.

*Reduce transporting of patients with influenza; unless medically necessary.

*Limit the number of health care personnel entering an isolation room.

"Recommended isolation precautions for health care personnel who are in contact with confirmed 2009 H1N1 influenza. Close contact is defined as working space within 6 feet of patient or entering into a small enclosed airspace shared with the patient."

2] Ranking second in the hierarchy of controls: Engineering controls.

*The installation of partitions in triage areas or the use of private rooms. Thereby reducing exposure to other personnel and patients.

*increased provision of hand sanitizing equipment and hand free soap dispensers.

*The acquisition of appropriate masks, including more face piece respirators.

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