With the number of COVID-19 cases rapidly increasing both in the community and facilities, locals and members need to be constantly aware of the emerging possibility of an outbreak - and being prepared is a good proactive step to take. 
 
If you are currently working in a facility that is experiencing an outbreak, reach out to your Local Executive and involve your ERO/ NPO for assistance via Duty Roster or direct contact.
 
Proactive Steps To Take Before An Outbreak 

  1. Keep current on the latest outbreaks and exposures that are occurring in your community and vicinity that may impact you.
  2. Keep current on the information and communication from the SHA. Consider posting or making sure all staff is familiar with where to find the information they need proactively.
  3. Keep current on Public Health Orders and recommendations from the Ministry of Health.
  4. Follow the Public Health Orders, recommendations, and best practices for COVID-19 Prevention and Mitigation.
  5. Communicate and share only credible, scientific, and evidence-based information as a leader in your unit/facility and community.
  6. Respect nurse-patient confidentiality, HIPPA and employer policies when engaging in information sharing and/or social media.
  7. Ask yourself, if an outbreak was to occur in my facility tomorrow, are we prepared?  What would need to happen?
  8. What are your local plans should an escalation of cases or an outbreak occur?  Engage with our Manager and discuss preparedness.
  9. Verifying supply and access to necessary PPE in your unit/ facility?
  10. Role model good PPE / masking techniques and offer support for proper usage with other staff for safety.
  11. Review and make sure you are knowledgeable about how to access and use Article 9.03 for staffing needs (all staff not just SUN members).
  12. Create a SUN account for online submission of Work Situation Reports.
  13. Talk to your Management and verify who the most responsible RN is in your facility for clinical concerns/issues and staffing if you do not have an RN/RPN Manager.
  14. Contact your Local ERO/NPO for support and resources.
  15. Local Executive/Members should notify SUN Provincial on any COVID related issues, concerns, or actual/potential outbreaks in your facility.

Resources

SHA COVID-19 Webpage

Ministry of Health COVID Webpage

Online WSR - Submit or Create an account

QUESTIONS?
Contact SUN Provincial Duty Roster @
REGINA: 1 (800) 667-7060 or (306) 525-1666
SASKATOON: 1(800) 667-3294