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.
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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.