Hey boo hey, we’re heading into flu season! It's that time of year again—the one we dread, not just because our loved ones are back in school bringing home all the germs, but also because our other home away from home, our workplaces, are about to get hit hard.
As nurse leaders, it’s crucial to start prepping now, especially if your admissions process doesn't cover this, now is the time to get those ducks in a row. Trust me, if the flu isn’t managed properly, it can spread faster than a trending TikTok.
Color-Code Your Flu Defense
One tool I’ve found incredibly effective is using a map of the facility and color-coding it. You can designate areas that are high-risk, areas where the flu has been reported, and areas that need extra vigilance. This visual approach helps everyone on the team stay alert and focused on the areas that need the most attention. Remember your line listing!
Competencies and Education: Don’t Skip This Step!
Flu season is the perfect time to revisit hand hygiene competencies with your staff. It”s not 10 seconds boo, LOL —after all, those hands are the frontline defense! It’s also a great opportunity to educate your residents on the importance of hand hygiene and covering their mouths when they cough.
A few years ago, my children and I wrote a book called "Saleem and Bahiyyah Learn About Handwashing." It’s a cute, fun way to teach kids about the importance of hand hygiene, but honestly, I think there are plenty of adults who could benefit from it too. LOL!
Even the littlest hands need to learn the right way to wash!
Consent Forms and Specimens: Get Ready
Along with those consent forms, make sure you have swabs ready to collect specimens when needed. It's also wise to stock up on disinfectant wipes Remember, being over-prepared is better than getting caught off guard!
Flu consent forms—get them signed and sealed before the flu sneaks in!
Signage: Make it Visible
Don’t forget to put up signs around your facility encouraging residents and staff to get the flu vaccine. Visibility is key—sometimes a little nudge is all people need to make the right choice.
Make sure everyone knows the flu vaccine is available and encouraged!
Planning and Preparation Produces Positive Outcomes!
The key to surviving flu season is simple: Planning and Preparation Produces Positive Outcomes! So, let's get ahead of this thing and keep our homes (both of them) safe and healthy this flu season. You've got this!
Stay strong, stay prepared, and remember—flu season doesn’t stand a chance against a well-prepared nurse leader!
Comments