A Coronavirus Checklist for Providers

Gregg Miller

Gregg Miller , MD

Chief Medical Officer

Published April 13, 2020

Healthcare providers using checklist to prepare for COVID-19

Health systems nationwide are already experiencing or preparing for a surge in patients stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather than adding to the information overload, I want to share the general guidance and safety checklist we’ve created for our more than 4,100 Vituity providers nationwide.

This checklist is geared toward emergency clinicians but appropriate for anyone with patient contact. As always, stay alert for specific direction from your medical director, health system, or local public health authorities.

COVID-19 Safety Checklist

(Updated April 16, 2020)

Clinical Knowledge

Intake

  • I know how our front end/triage/intake/RME process is changing to adapt to possible COVID-19 patients.
  • I understand my hospital’s policy on the use of telehealth for patient diagnoses and treatment.
  • I know how our EMS intake process is changing to adapt to possible COVID-19 patients.
  • I know where these patients will be placed during their visit for testing.

Critical Care Admission

  • I know my hospital’s criteria for admission.
  • I know my hospital’s criteria for transfer to the ICU.
  • I know my hospital’s criteria for intubation.

Testing

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Quarantine/Work Restrictions

Self-Care

  • I am following the recommended hand hygiene at all times, inside and outside the care setting. Wash hands with soap and warm water for at least twenty seconds, not just before and after every patient encounter, but frequently throughout each shift.
  • I have stocked up on supplies like food, medications, and hygiene products if I must self-quarantine or fall under community quarantine.

In Conclusion

COVID-19 is rapidly evolving, and many of these recommendations will likely change. To stay up to date, refer to CDC guidance for healthcare professionals. Be sure to wear gloves, wash your hands, don’t touch your face, and use masks for all patient encounters!

Reading this checklist may be sobering. Know that the hard work you are doing under tough circumstances to care for patients truly makes a difference. We all chose a medical career to relieve suffering and bring healing to our communities. For our profession, this unprecedented time can also represent our finest hour.

Partnering to improve patient lives

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