Emergency Preparedness

Spring in the United States brings more than beautiful flowers and green grass.  In fact, this Spring has brought snow storms, wildfires, floods, and deadly tornadoes.  The Conditions of Participation for home health, hospice, and many state licensed home services require the establishment of an emergency plan for its organization, employees, and patients. In addition to the many required elements of maintaining an effective emergency preparedness program, leadership of each organization should encourage their staff members to make their own preparations.  Emergency experts suggest that all families have a collection of items for quick access.  Articles such as flashlights, dry clothing, bottled water, energy bars, first aid kit, batteries, whistles, and more can be maintained in a duffle bag or backpack in a place where each family member can access.  These emergency kits should be checked twice per year—just as individuals should inspect their smoke alarms biannually.  Prepared employees are more likely to help their patients during widespread emergencies.  Assist your staff to understand the risks of disaster events in their area.