Lessons learned from previous epidemics include the importance of protecting health care workers from exposure and factors associated with shortfalls in the prevention of hospital-associated infections. In response to these shortfalls, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have outlined risk assessment and management post-exposure which includes categorization of risk level for infection.

That being said, there is limited guidance for health care institutions regarding how to communicate and support health care workers after a potential exposure. Given the risk from interactions with affected patients and the stress associated with providing care, standardized, effective communication to health care workers is important.

A practical checklist for communication with health care workers regarding potential healthcare-associated exposure was developed and can be found on the link here. Some of the information is acute care based, however, the checklist can assist you in ensuring your staff are aware and are provided with appropriate support in the event of exposure. Stay well, stay safe, and stay tuned!