COVID-19: Six steps can help sustain the health care workforce

Two physicians writing in the Journal of the American Medical Association outline six measures health systems can take to protect and support staff during the COVID-19 pandemic. Infection prevention tops the list, with use of protective gear, hand hygiene and surface decontamination named as the best ways to safeguard clinical staff treating coronavirus patients. The authors also recommend establishing protocols to quickly isolate people who present at emergency departments with COVID-19 symptoms; making sure staff have opportunities for adequate rest; and taking steps such as reducing health worker travel to reduce the risk of infection. Leadership that includes supportive conversations with staff and clear guidance is also essential to building trust and a sense of control, the authors believe. (HealthLeaders Media story, 3/16/20)