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CASE REVIEW Protecting Personnel Infectious diseases are a continuous challenge to EMS providers. There are a variety of agents of concern, which include viruses, bacteria, fungi and other agents. There are natural and bioterror agents that have afected EMS operations and require active prevention programs. Within every EMS agency there must be a program and leaders dedicated to the identification, prevention and control of contagious diseases. Every EMS organization must establish links to the responsible public health entity in their service area. This agency will access the state public health organization (and CDC) for information about important agents. EMS leaders have developed policies for mitigating the impact of seasonal viruses. Many EMS personnel receive vaccines. Great operating practices help staf avoid contagious diseases: Don't get within six feet of ill patients unless it is needed; place masks on ill and coughing patients; wash hands and keep them away from the face; get appropriate rest and exercise. These good habits allow EMS providers to remain confident as a contagious disease becomes concerning, and able to reassure their families they will not bring any bugs home. entire United States was at its highest level of fu outbreak. There have been a number of fatalities. The population affected this year largely has been older, including some nursing-home outbreaks. EMS systems have been busy across the country, as have hospi- tals and their emergency departments. With an older population affected by the viruses, symptoms prompting EMS activation have included shortness of breath, chest pain and high fever. In many cases acuity has required hospitalization, which puts pressure on avail- able beds, and some urban areas have had problems with hospital diversion. Seasonal disease outbreaks also challenge the capabilities of regional healthcare systems. The operational problem becomes emergency departments' capacities to receive patients, whether they are suffering from the contagious illness or any other emergency condition. The diversion issue has a broad base. It is a function of: • Reserve capacity of the hospital in terms of beds, patient care staff and equipment; • Buffer capacity, mainly in the ED, when larger-than-normal infuxes of patients occur; • Planning and scheduling, so the hospital reduces the volume of elective services when acute care beds and staff are not available; • Illness among hospital staff. Smart choice for power™ FREEDOM HF EMS INVERTER/CHARGER QUICK INSTALL PO 1 WE 2V DC RM OD U AL N NIM AI MI RY DR TTE BA LE & 22 -18 NCE K-A PLIA KK OM C UL RE DIS MOTE PL A Y HIGH SURGE THE PERFECT BLEND OF POWER & VALUE Designed exclusively for the EMS market, the Freedom HF EMS is one of the smallest, lightest and most affordable inverter/chargers in the market. The Freedom HF comes pre-wired with AC and DC cables for quick installation and easy 'drop-in' replacement. Available in 2 models: 1000W/55A & 1800W/40A. For additional information, contact Stuart Evans, Sales Manager at 604-422-2613 or stuart.evans@xantrex.com © 2013 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved. All trademarks owned by Schneider Electric Industries SAS or its affiliated companies. For More Information Circle 21 on Reader Service Card 20 MARCH 2013 | EMSWORLD.com