25 Jun 9 Tips for Surge Planning Early: A Comprehensive Guide for Hospitals, Healthcare Systems, and Private Practices
As summer begins, it is crucial for healthcare facilities—including hospitals, emergency departments, and private practices—to begin proactive surge planning. June is an ideal time to focus on strategies that not only address immediate challenges, such as heatwave-related surges, but also gather the necessary resources to prepare for the upcoming Fall 2025 Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), influenza, and COVID-19 seasons. Here are some essential tips to ensure your facility is ready to meet these demands effectively with the necessary people and supplies.
Emergency Department Surge Planning for Heatwaves
Heatwaves combined with increased outdoor activities can significantly raise the number of patients entering emergency departments (EDs) due to heat-related illnesses. Here are key strategies to consider:
1. Assess Past Data: Analyze previous years’ data to understand trends in heat-related ED visits. This analysis can help predict potential surges and guide resource allocation, including temporary staffing needs.
2. Staff Training: Equip staff with knowledge and skills specific to heat-related illnesses. Conduct refreshers on recognizing symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
3. Public Awareness Campaigns: Initiate outreach programs to educate the community about the risks associated with extreme heat and the importance of staying hydrated. Use social media and other media channels to disseminate this information.
4. Resource Allocation: Ensure adequate supplies of fluids and cooling tools (fans, ice packs) are available in the ED. Consider setting up designated cooling areas within the facility.
Early Preparation for Fall RSV, Influenza, and COVID-19 Seasons
While summer is a time for unwinding and vacationing, it is also vital to take proactive steps to prepare for the surges and increased demands that typically occur in the fall. As the weather cools and healthcare needs shift, being well-prepared can make all the difference. Here’s how to get started on this important process:
1. Vaccine Inventory: Tally and order vaccines for RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 as early as possible. Ensuring a sufficient stock will protect the community you serve when the seasons turn.
2. Public Health Communication: Collaborate with local health departments to launch an early vaccination campaign targeting high-risk groups. Clear communication will support vaccination efforts and help establish community trust.
3. Patient Triage Protocols: Refine patient triage protocols to differentiate between cases of RSV, influenza, and COVID-19 effectively. This can expedite treatment and minimize the risk of transmission within your facility.
4. Staff Preparedness: Engage your staff in discussions about potential surges and the protocols for each illness. Conduct mock drills to ensure that everyone knows their role during peak times.
5. Monitor Trends: Begin to monitor early outbreak reports of RSV and influenza during the summer months. This information will assist in predicting potential surges and adjusting resource allocation accordingly.
The Payoff of Surge Planning
By strategically preparing in June for both heat-related challenges and the upcoming respiratory season, hospitals, healthcare systems, and private practices can strengthen their resilience to a range of public health challenges. This forward-thinking approach not only supports optimal patient care but also promotes a safer environment for patients and staff alike. We encourage healthcare leaders to take these steps seriously, as they will yield significant benefits in the long run.
Annashae Staffing can help healthcare facilities plan for staffing needs during summer and fall surges by:
* providing locum tenens staff to fill staffing gaps during peak seasons, ensuring continuity of care,
* building a pool of qualified candidates for future hiring needs, and
* providing guidance on how to best approach seasonal hiring, including identifying potential candidates and managing staffing needs during peak periods.
