Assignment: For this assignment, you are given a real-world scenario as follows: The Medical Director has assigned the Director of Nursing (DON) for the local health department to develop a plan to

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Introduction:
The assignment requires the development of a policy/protocol by the Director of Nursing (DON) for the local health department, in collaboration with the health department emergency preparedness coordinator, the epidemiologist, and representatives from the local long-term care facility (LTCF) nursing department. The assignment template provides a structure to address various aspects related to the emergency plan for the LTCF. The objective of this policy/protocol is to ensure effective handling of emergencies and patient care in the LTCF, with the involvement of relevant stakeholders. This answer will cover each section of the template and provide a comprehensive plan.

1. Designated authority:
The designated authority for the development and implementation of the nursing protocol in the disaster plan coordinating agreement between the LTCF and the health department will be the Director of Nursing (DON) for the local health department. The DON will oversee the collaboration and coordination between the LTCF and the health department.

2. Describe the problem. List the proposed nursing diagnosis:
The problem is the need for a nursing protocol within the disaster plan coordinating agreement between the LTCF and the health department. The proposed nursing diagnosis is to ensure efficient and effective patient care during emergencies in the LTCF, considering the unique challenges and vulnerabilities of long-term care residents.

3. Background:
The development of this nursing protocol is necessary to address the potential impact of emergencies on the health and safety of long-term care residents. Data and information regarding the vulnerability of LTCF residents during emergencies, as well as past experiences in other healthcare settings, highlight the need for a comprehensive plan in place. The protocol will incorporate evidence-based practices and guidelines to ensure the highest level of patient care during emergencies.

4. Identify other persons needed to serve on this team from both the LTCF and the health department:
In addition to the Director of Nursing, the team from the LTCF should include the Director/Manager of the LTCF, the Head Nurse or Charge Nurse, and representatives from other relevant departments (e.g., nursing, administration, maintenance). From the health department, the team should include the health department emergency preparedness coordinator, the epidemiologist, and representatives from other relevant departments (e.g., medical director, environmental health).

5. Generate a list of what information about the nursing care facility is needed to develop this plan and delineate assignments to the appropriate persons:
– Emergency response plan and procedures of the LTCF.
– Staffing and personnel information, including roles and responsibilities during emergencies.
– Resident demographics and medical conditions.
– Availability of resources, equipment, and supplies.
– Communication systems within the LTCF.
– Existing collaborations and agreements with external entities (e.g., hospitals, emergency services).
Assignments:
– LTCF Director/Manager: Provide the emergency response plan and procedures of the LTCF.
– Head Nurse/Charge Nurse: Provide staffing and personnel information.
– LTCF Nursing Department: Provide resident demographics and medical conditions.
– Maintenance Department: Provide information on resources, equipment, and supplies.
– Communication Department: Provide information on communication systems.
– LTCF Administrative Department: Provide information on external collaborations and agreements.

6. Objectives:
– Objective 1: Develop and implement a nursing protocol within the disaster plan coordinating agreement between the LTCF and the health department within six months. This objective will be measured by the completion and approval of the nursing protocol.
– Objective 2: Train LTCF staff on the nursing protocol and emergency response procedures within three months. This objective will be measured by the completion of staff training records.
– Objective 3: Conduct a drill or simulation to test the effectiveness of the nursing protocol and identify areas for improvement within one year. This objective will be measured by the evaluation report and identified improvements.

7. Proposed Interventions:
LTCF:
– Develop/update the emergency response plan and procedures based on best practices and regulatory guidelines.
– Establish clear roles and responsibilities for nursing staff during emergencies.
– Ensure adequate staffing levels during emergencies.
– Conduct regular training and drills for nursing staff.
– Maintain appropriate resources, equipment, and supplies for emergency response.

Health Department:
– Provide support and guidance in the development of the nursing protocol.
– Collaborate with the LTCF in conducting staff training and drills.
– Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with the nursing protocol.
– Provide ongoing education and resources for LTCF staff.

8. Expected Benefits:
– Enhanced patient care and safety during emergencies.
– Improved coordination and communication between the LTCF and the health department.
– Minimization of adverse outcomes and mortality rates.
– Compliance with regulatory requirements and guidelines.

9. Audit and evaluation:
Outcomes will be evaluated through the following methods:
– Regular audits and inspections to assess compliance with the nursing protocol.
– Feedback from LTCF staff, residents, and families regarding the effectiveness of emergency response measures.
– Analysis of incident reports and adverse events.
– Analysis of drill and simulation results.
– Ongoing monitoring and review of protocols, with updates and improvements made as needed.

In conclusion, the nursing protocol for the disaster plan coordinating agreement between the LTCF and the health department aims to enhance patient care and safety during emergencies. The involvement of key stakeholders and the utilization of evidence-based practices will ensure the development of a comprehensive and effective plan. Monitoring, evaluation, and continuous improvement will be implemented to maintain the efficacy of the protocol.