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Update: March 27, 2020

Updated 10:47 a.m., 3/27/20

  • It’s FRIDAY.
  • Michele stressed the need to try to get some rest this weekend (share coverage), exercise and eat well. We’re going into our third week without a break, and this is a marathon, not a sprint.
  • Healthcare got a big shout-out from Parish President Robbie Miller on the Johnny In the Morning Show. He said we aren’t getting the recognition we deserve, and shared his gratitude for the great work we are doing.
  • The state reports 2,305 COVID-19 cases in 53 of 64 parishes. There have been 83 deaths. Tangipahoa has 7 cases.
  • Employee wellness reports that 315 employees are being monitored, 22 are self-isolating and 9 employees were returned to work yesterday.
  • Drive through COVID-19 testing station will be open today. We have 10 appointments as of this morning.
  • Call volume to the COVID-19 hotline, and visits to the walk-in clinics and ED were down slightly yesterday – hopefully this is a sign that social distancing is flattening the curve.
  • Supplies: With education yesterday on appropriate use of masks, we saw a drop in utilization. We anticipate running low on PDI wipes and are working on Plan B.
  • Leaders – check the COVID-19 Toolkit on the I: drive frequently. We are posting updated information daily. Please avoid printing and posting information – things are still fluid and changes occur frequently.
  • Infection Prevention will be distributing face shields and instructions on sanitizing and reusing today. There is a limited supply, and most employees with NOT need them. Also look for information added to the COVID-19 toolkit on aerosol-generating procedures.
  • The expanded Infection Prevention team is working on adjusting their hours to provide in-person support for units 24/7. Please be patient as they work this out.
  • HR is still actively recruiting to fill vacancies. You may delegate interviews to your managers or HR if you like. We need to be ready for a spike in volume when things get back to normal.
  • The state is working on surge plans to increase capacity. In New Orleans they are preparing to open 1,000 beds in the Morial Convention Center on April 3, and can increase to 2,000 if needed. An outside staffing firm is assisting with manpower, but PPE is a concern. We are actively working with Region 9 to create a surge plan for our region.
  • Community support of North Oaks continues. Seventeen businesses have donated PPE or disinfectant wipes, and food donations for staff are scheduled throughout next week. Don’t forget to pick up donuts for your staff today. Distribution for the evening shift will be in the Tower Lobby at 2:30.
  • Please remember that our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available for confidential counseling by simply dialing 1-800-749-3277. Professional counselors stand ready to assist with stress, anxiety and a variety of other important topics during unprecedented time in our nation’s history.
    • If your staff have concerns, please reach out to Leadership. We have subject matter experts who can come and answer questions and allay their fears.
    • Another resource is the Louisiana “Keep Calm Through COVID” hotline, 866-310-7977. The Hotline provides trained, compassionate counselors to support Louisianans through this difficult time. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week with information and service coordination, linking callers to mental health and substance abuse counseling services. This service is available to the public at no charge. All calls are confidential.
    • Please report any concerns you have to your leadership team so we can address them. Encourage employees to comply with our social media policy and avoid venting frustrations on social sites.
  • Many thanks to Drs. Cook and Fowlkes for providing additional masking and ventilator training.
  • We are assisting the Hammond Police Department with return to work physicals for EMS and first responders.
  • Departments – please plan ahead if you need to restock forms so the print shop can be sure to have the appropriate supplies in-house to meet your needs.
  • The production of Weekly Vitals is being suspended until further notice. Information that needs to go out will be included in the daily COVID-19 update. Please send items to Tracy Randazzo.
  • Last but not least, it’s Doctor’s Day on Monday. This year we are especially grateful to each of you for sharing your talent and passion for caring with us. You inspire trust and confidence, and accomplish amazing things each and every day. Happy Doctor’s Day to you all.