Pandemics And Bioterrorism

Recently, the threat of a pandemic of the H1N1 virus led to large-scale immunization and mobilization of governmental and private health care organizations. It was clear from the beginning phases that we were not prepared to handle such a large-scale and potentially fatal disease outbreak. It is likely that in the event of a pandemic, hospitals and emergency clinics would be overtaxed and many members of the general public would seek treatment from the medical practice office. The following 10 suggestions are provided as a guide to caring for patients and the public in the event of an epidemic, outbreak, or suspected act of bioterrorism:

1. Maintain an index of suspicion and know the signs and symptoms associated with the condition or causative agent.
2. Protect yourself and take whatever preventive measures are available and recommended for health care providers.
3. Assess the patients and those who come in for treatment.
4. Decontaminate as appropriate if a causative agent is suspected.
5. Establish a diagnosis and treatment plan.
6. Render prompt treatment according to guidelines from local or national health officials.
7. Practice good infection control and waste disposal.
8. Alert the proper authorities and health department.
9. Assist in the epidemiologic investigation as needed.
10. Maintain proficiency in emergency care and initiation of the office emergency plan.