AHS is standardizing the IPC management of patients with respiratory virus infections. Standardization of infection control measures, including personal protective equipment (PPE) recommendations, will simplify patient management. COVID-19 will now be managed using the same approach (Contact and Droplet Precautions) as other endemic respiratory virus infections. Contact and Droplet Precautions/Isolation will apply for any patient with a suspected or confirmed respiratory virus infection.
The Joint Statement between AHS, Covenant Health and the unions remains in effect. Healthcare workers will continue to have discretion to choose, and have access to, any PPE they feel is necessary based on their infection prevention and control risk assessment (IPC-RA) including a fit tested N95 respirator.
There are no changes in PPE guidance related to aerosol-generating medical procedures (AGMPs). Healthcare workers will continue to use a fit tested N95 respirator in addition to eye protection, gown and gloves.
As new infections and disease emerge in our health care settings, changes to standard Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practices may be required. These current and past issues highlight the IPC resources created to manage these special cases.
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IPC measures are based on currently available scientific evidence and guidelines and are subject to review and change as new information becomes available.
IPC measures are based on currently available scientific evidence and guidelines and are subject to review and change as new information becomes available.
SARI related IPC measures are based on currently available scientific evidence and guidelines and are subject to review and change as new information becomes available.
For general information visit our VHF / Ebola webpage. Ebola related IPC measures are based on currently available scientific evidence and guidelines and are subject to review and change as new information becomes available.
VHF PPE training modules are available on MyLearningLink for AHS employees. These modules are also available for non-AHS employees on the IPC Personal Protective Equipment page.
The online modules are designed for tailored use to accommodate clinical department training needs, this includes ES, Lab or other staff supporting patient care.
Suggestions for how to use the VHF modules and to maintain preparedness include:
*Contact Infection Prevention and Control team members at your site regarding support for in-person training.
