How is Mercy Preparing for H1N1?

In an effort to ensure that all Mercy associates are adequately educated about the virus - who is at risk, the relative severity and commonsense precautions we can all take - a series of lectures were conducted on the facts and fiction of the H1N1 virus.

Vaccinating hospital personnel and others as completely as possible to insure adequate staffing and service levels.
To date, Mercy has achieved excellent compliance as staff lined-up for vaccinations for season flu. We expect the same or greater level of compliance for novel H1N1 vaccinations. Mercy managers have created department specific contingency plans that detail levels of service under progressive absentee situations. Certainly it is hoped that adequate levels of H1N1 vaccinations among Mercy staff will obviate the need for the execution of such a plan.

Stocking up on housekeeping items like cleaning supplies, masks, gloves etc.
Mercy’s Housekeeping staff and purchasing departments have stockpiled needed supplies and are ready to purchase more if there is a need. Supplies include masks, gloves, sanitizing gels and larger quantities of disposables items where needed.

Maintaining generous stocks of anti-viral medications. Mercy is making every effort to maintain an adequate supply of antiviral medications used to treat both seasonal and H1N1 influenza. There is no indication, at this time, that the medicines will be in short supply.

Mercy has activated new protocols in our Emergency Department, Outpatient Testing areas and other services to ensure safe and effective treatment of those with H1N1 symptoms and those who do not have these symptoms. Every precaution has been put into place to protect both those with and those without influenza type illnesses.

Developing plans to serve as a general vaccination site if called upon by the Department of Health.
Mercy is prepared to provide mass vaccinations in the event the Department of Health requests us to do so. Information will be made available on this website if vaccinations will be made distributed to the general public.

Signage
Signage at all entrances and restrooms is in place reminding everyone to sanitize their hands prior to entering the hospital, use care when coughing or sneezing and consider delaying their visit if they are experiencing symptoms.

Mercy will also continually update this web site to include the latest information from CDC, the World Health Organization and the Pennsylvania Department of Health.