HTM & COVID-19: Part 2

As we have had some time to absorb the initial stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, I thought it would be a good time to share a few things I have learned so far. 

• The nursing staff is amazing – The way the ICU nurses have handled the additional load and stress is better than what I could have hoped.
• Respiratory Therapists – I will never take them for granted…ever.
• There is likely no playbook for this – This situation is potentially a once in a century event.
• The C-suite is showing great leadership – They are creating the play book on the fly and are using subject matter experts to help.
• PPE shortages are causing confusion and anxiety – Please abide by your facilities PPE policy.  They must mitigate risk and supply.
• Equipment is hard to get – Getting ventilators are harder to get than toilet paper.
• OEMs and ISO – Thank you for all that you do!  Many of you are not taking advantage of the spike in demand.
• Right to repair – The present situation demonstrates the importance of BMETS, ISO, and OEMs in order to maintain and supply life saving devices.  Remove any one of the three and this all falls apart. 

I want to add my personal thank to the whole HTM community.  Your work is saving lives and everyone in our community should be celebrated. Every one of you deserve one heck of a gift during HTM week!  Hang in there and stay safe.