As U.S. Ebola scare fades, infection control focus wanes

Hospital officials are trying to ensure that lessons learned don't disappear with Ebola


As the U.S. Ebola scare fades, the focus on infection control efforts is fading too, according to an article on the Columbian website.

Facilities stepped up training and planning for Ebola cases after a man died in Dallas, but as the situation abates, so does the urgency to act, the article said. 

With limited resources, hospitals seek a balance between preparation and overreaction when planning for the possibility of an outbreak, according to hospital and healthcare officials.

Only about 6 percent of hospitals said they were "well-prepared" for an Ebola patient, according to a recent survey.

"The level of activity that's required to be a fully prepared hospital is pretty extraordinary," Dr. Eric Toner, who studies medical preparedness during outbreaks at the University of Pittsburgh Center for Health Security, said in the article. "If there's not a comparable epidemic in another decade or so, a lot of the progress we've made will be lost."

Read the article.

 

 



December 3, 2014


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

What Managers Miss in Small and Mid-Sized Cooling Units

The assumption is that small cooling units are fine. That assumption is costing facilities more than most owners and managers realize.


Preparing Healthcare Facilities for Cockroach Risks

Here’s what healthcare facilities managers should inspect and address after severe weather to prevent pest problems.


The Medical College of Wisconsin Breaks Ground on Student Housing Complex

The four-story apartment complex will include 266 units of various sizes.


A Shift in Healthcare Facilities Management

Healthcare facilities leaders who embrace a mindset change will be better prepared for the future.


Trauma-Informed Design Transforms Boston Homeless Shelter

Case study: A comprehensive renovation of St. Francis House makes use of trauma-informed design, infrastructure upgrades and operational improvements.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.