The MNA is committed to keeping members educated about what is happening both locally and nationally with the COVID-19 pandemic — from workplace safety measures and best practices for keeping frontline caregivers safe, to current communications from the CDC and state DPH. This page will be updated continuously, with the newest and/or most important information listed at the top.
Questions about what you are seeing, hearing, and/or experiencing in the workplace? Email mnainfo@mnarn.org.
Resource: Support & Self Care for Nurses & Healthcare Professionals
News, Updates, and Resources
From MDPH: July 20, 2022
From MDPH: July 19, 2022
From MDPH: January, 2022
From the Executive Office of Health and Human Services: January 19, 2022
MNA Letter to Gov. Baker about COVID-19 recommendations: January 20, 2022
From MDPH – Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality: January 5, 2022
From MDPH – Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality: January 5, 2022
From MDPH: December 21, 2021
From MDPH – Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality: December 21, 2021
From MDPH: December 21, 2021
From MDPH: December 9, 2021
From MDPH: December 2, 2021
From MDPH: November 10, 2021
From MDPH: October 15, 2021
From the Boston Globe: October 12, 2021
From MDPH: October 8, 2021
From the DESE: September 27, 2021
From the DESE: September 27, 2021
From the CDC: September 24, 2021
From MDPH: September 24, 2021
From MDPH: September 17, 2021
From MDPH: September 15, 2021
From MNA: September 10, 2021
- Massachusetts Nurses Association Position Statement on COVID-19 Vaccine Requirements and other Strategies to Combat the COVID Pandemic
From MDPH: August 26, 2021
From MedPage Today: August 23, 2021
From MDPH: August 19, 2021
From MDPH: August 16, 2021
From the DESE and DPH: August 13, 2021
From the CDC: August 13, 2021
From the MDPH: Aug. 5, 2021
From the DPH: July 30, 2021
From Medscape: July 29, 2021
From Medpage Today: July 27, 2021
From the US Department of Health and Human Services: July 26, 2021
From the Washington Post: July 26, 2021
- Doctors, nurses and health groups call for mandatory coronavirus vaccinations for health workers. The statement — signed by 57 medical and health groups, representing millions of workers — represents an increasingly tough stance amid the sluggish pace of national vaccinations. View the letter and list of signatories here.
From MedPage Today: July 23, 2021
From the DPH: July 23, 2021
From the DPH: July 2, 2021
From the DPH: June 24, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is providing weekly “Need to Know” update for COVID-19 vaccine providers. PDF doc attached here
From the DPH: June 10, 2021
From the DPH: June 10, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: June 10, 2021
From the OSHA: June 10, 2021
From the DPH: June 3, 2021
From the DPH: June 3, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: June 3, 2021
From the DPH: May 27, 2021
From the DPH: May 27, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: May 27, 2021
From the DPH: May 20, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: May 20, 2021
From the DPH: May 18, 2021
From the DPH: May 14, 2021
From the Boston Globe: May 13, 2021
From the CDC: May 13, 2021
From the DPH: May 13, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: May 13, 2021
From the CDC: May 7, 2021
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has updated: How COVID-19 Spreads
From the DPH: May 6, 2021
From the DPH: May 6, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: May 6, 2021
From the Medscape: April 30, 2021
From the Medscape: April 29, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: April 29, 2021
From the DPH: April 29, 2021
From the DPH: April 29, 2021
From the DPH: April 22, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: April 22, 2021
From the DPH: April 22, 2021
From the Executive Office of Health and Human Services: April 20, 2021
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has updated quarantine guidance for close contacts.
- Word doc attached here
From the DPH: April 17, 2021
From the DPH: April 15, 2021
From decaturish.com: April 13, 2021
From the CDC: April 9, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: April 8, 2021
From the DPH: April 2, 2021
From the DPH: April 2, 2021
From the Governor and Lieutenant Governor: April 2, 2021
From the DPH: April 1, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: April 1, 2021
From the DPH: March 29, 2021
From the DPH, Bureau of Health Professions Licensure: December 21, 2020
- Remember your RN License Renewal and Contact Hour Requirement! In accordance with COVID-19 Order No. 41, signed by Governor Baker on June 26, 2020, if your license was due to expire on or after March 10, 2020, and you have not yet renewed your license, your license will now expire on June 30, 2021.
From the DPH: March 25, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: March 25, 2021
From the DPH: March 18, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: March 18, 2021
From the Governor and Lieutenant Governor: March 17, 2021
From the CDC: Updated August 18, 2020
From the DPH: March 12, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is providing weekly “Need to Know” update for COVID-19 vaccine providers. Available here.
From the DPH: March 11, 2021
From the CDC: March 11, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: March 8, 2021
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: March 8, 2021
From the CDC: March 8, 2021
From the CDC: March 7, 2021
- The Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) has updated numerous guidance documents for COVID-19 vaccinations, including “training and education.” Available here.
From the DPH: March 7, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is providing weekly “Need to Know” updates for COVID-19 vaccine providers. Available here.
From the DPH: March 5, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report”, provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: March 5, 2021
From the CDC: March 3, 2021
From the CDC: March 3, 2021
From the Governor and Lieutenant Governor: March 3, 2021
From the DPH: March 1, 2021
- The MA ICU nurse staffing law is now back in effect: The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Executive Office or Health and Human Services has rescinded the order of the Commissioner of Public Health Exempting Hospitals from the Requirements of M.G.L. c. 111, §231, effective March 1, 2021. More here.
From the DPH: February 25, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report”, provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: February 25, 2021
From the DPH: February 21, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is providing weekly, “Need to Know”, updates for COVID-19 vaccine providers.
From the DPH: February 18, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report”, provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: February 18, 2021
From the DPH: February 11, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is providing weekly, “Need to Know”, updates for COVID-19 vaccine providers. More here.
From MedPage Today: February, 14, 2021
- Research on the COVID-19 U.K. variant is demonstrating that the variant may cause more severe disease resulting in more hospitalizations. More here.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: February 11, 2020
From the DPH: February 11, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report” provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic. Available here.
From the CDC: February 10, 2021
- The Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) has published a report on how to improve performance of mask use to reduce COVID-19 transmission and exposure. More here.
From the Medscape: February 2, 2021
- Researchers from Stanford University in Stanford CA and the University of Pennsylvania report, COVID-19 Virus May Prompt Body to Attack Itself.
From the CDC: February 2, 2021
From the USP: January 2021
- The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) has published, COVID-19 Vaccine Handling Toolkit: Operational Considerations for Healthcare Practitioners.
From the DPH: January 28, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is providing weekly “Need to Know” updates for COVID-19 vaccine providers. Available here.
From DPH: January 28, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report” provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic. More here.
From USA Today: January 27, 2021
- Information about the COVID-19 variants. More here.
From the Baker-Polita Administration: January 25, 2020
From DPH: January 21, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report”, provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic. More here
From DPH: January 21, 2021.
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is providing weekly “Need to Know” updates for COVID-19 vaccine providers. Available here.
From the DPH: January 14, 2021
From the DPH: January 6, 2021
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) posts up-to-date information on when and where to get the vaccine with links providing additional vaccine information. Visit their “Covid-19 Vaccine in Massachusetts” page.
From the Executive Office of Health and Human Services: January 12, 2021
- As hospitalizations across Massachusetts continue to rise, mass.gov has created a new, centralized webpage with resources, information and a support line to assist hospital case managers with discharging and transitioning patients to the most appropriate care setting. Visit the “Discharge Resources and Guidelines for Hospitals” page on Mass.gov
From the Safer Behaviors: January 12, 2021
- Founding partner, Sean Kaufman, of Safer Behaviors (USA) will present, “Managing Pandemic Fatigue in the Workplace” on January 28th from 1-2pm. Sign up for the Goto Meeting.
From the CDC: January 9, 2021
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated information on what to expect following getting the COVID-19 vaccine. More here.
From the CDC: January 9, 2021
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated information about the characteristics of the rapidly emerging COVID variants. Scientist at this time say, there is no evidence that these variants cause more severe illness or increased risk of death. More here.
From MedScape: January 8, 2021
- FDA Warns of False Negative COVID Tests from Virus Mutations. More here.
From MedPage Today: January 7, 2021
- MedPage Today reports Center for Disease Control and Prevention information regarding the anaphylaxis rate with COVIC Vax 10 Times Greater That for Flu, but officials say events are still rare and nonfatal, and benefits outweigh the risks. More here.
From DPH: January 7, 2021
From Governor Baker: January 7, 2021
- Governor Baker announces Extension of Capacity and Gathering Limits, New Guidance for Hospital ICU Staffing and Elective Surgeries. Available here.
From the DPH: December 31, 2020
From the DPH: December 31, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has published Comprehensive Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Guidance. Available here.
From the DPH: December 31, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report” provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic. Available here.
From the CDC: December 30, 2020
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated vaccination of immunocompromised persons, the contraindications and precautions to vaccination, as well as other considerations in the, Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of mRNA COVID-19 Vaccines Currently Authorized in the United States document. More here.
From the DPH: December 24, 2020
From the DPH: December 24, 2020
- As Massachusetts hospitals are nearing capacity limits, the Department of Public Health has published an urgent request to fill open RN and CNA staff positions at the two recently established field hospitals. More here.
From the MNA: December 24, 2020
From the DPH: December 22, 2020
From Governor Baker: December 22, 2020
From the DPH Immunization Division: December 22, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) Immunization Division has updated the immunization requirements for childcare, secondary schools and post-secondary schools.
From the DPH: December 18, 2020
From the DESE: December 18, 2020
From the DPH: December, 2020: December 19, 2020
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: December 17, 2020
From the DPH: December 17, 2020
From CNBC: December 16, 2020
- The FDA advises to monitor for possible cases of Bell’s palsy in people who have been vaccinated with either the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccines. Any vaccine reaction needs to be reported to VAERS, the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System at https://vaers.hhs.gov/reportevent.html.
From MEMA: December 16, 2020
- The Commonwealth’s COVID-19 Command Center and Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) have stood up regional isolation and recovery sites located in hotels across the state. Attached is an overview of the program, the services included, who is eligible, and how to make a referral. PDF with full details here.
From the Politico: December 16, 2020
- Politico reports that the Food and Drug Administration states the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine vial has an extra dose, expands supply. More here.
From the Medscape: December 15, 2020
- Medscape reports on a research article that outlines the serious neurologic sequalae in patients with COVID-19, stating the complications are not limited to the severely ill. More here.
From the Medscape: December 14, 2020
From the FDA: December 14, 2020
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to permit the emergency use of the unapproved product, Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine, for active immunization to prevent COVID-19 in individuals 16 years of age and older. A summary of instructions for COVID-19 vaccination providers can be found here.
From the DPH: December 10, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report”, provides detailed town-by-town COVID-19 information and data in Massachusetts.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: December 10, 2020
From Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito: December 9, 2020
- Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito have announced the Initial Steps for COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution. https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-initial-steps-for-covid-19-vaccine-distribution
From the DPH: December 9, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has updated the guidance for nonessential, elective invasive procedures during the COVID-19 outbreak. PDF attached here.
From Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito: December 8, 2020
- Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito have announced a statewide rollback to Phase Three, Step One on December 13th. https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-statewide-rollback-to-phase-three-step-one-additional
From the CDC: December 8, 2020
From the DPH: December 7, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has updated the guidance for nonessential, elective invasive procedures during the COVID-19 outbreak. PDF attached here
From Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito: December 7, 2020
- Governor Baker and Lt. Governor Polito have launched new testing infrastructure to increase testing capacity and efficiency statewide. https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-launches-new-testing-infrastructure-to-increase-testing-capacity
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: December 7, 2020
- The Massachusetts COVID-19 Command Center has published guidance following COVID-19 exposure and returning to work. PDF attached here
From the DPH: December 7, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s (DPH) Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences has issued guidance for persons in quarantine due to COVID-19. PDF attached here
From the CDC: December 5, 2020
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revised the guidance for COVID-19 antigen testing. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/lab/resources/antigen-tests-guidelines.html
From NBC TODAY: Dec. 5, 2020
- NBC examines the negative health impacts associated with the re-use and decontamination of N95 masks during the COVID-19 pandemic and hears concerns from nurses and healthcare professionals.Print story: https://www.today.com/health/ppe-shortages-does-decontaminating-n95-masks-actually-work-t197417
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: Dec. 4, 2020
From the CDC: Dec. 2, 2020
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reduced the timeframe to quarantine following a COVID-19 exposure. Available here.
From the Mass. DPH: Nov. 27, 2020
From the Mass. DPH: November 25, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) has provided guidance for indoor COVID-19 testing.Available here.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: November 19, 2020
From the Mass. DPH: November 18, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued updated quarantine guidance. Available here.
From Medscape: November 18, 2020
- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued an emergency use authorization for the first rapid COVID-19 at-home test. Available here.
From Medscape: November 16, 2020
- The National Nurses Union reports survey results about PPE shortages, lack of screening for COVID, staffing shortages, the toll of the pandemic on emotional health, the increase of workplace violence and more. Available here.
From Medscape: November 13, 2020
- An associate professor of emergency medicine and an emergency department physician from Brown University has researched the question: Why are some patients with COVID sicker than others? Available here.
From CNN: November 13, 2020
- CNN has published a list of vendors that are offering discounts to healthcare workers during the pandemic. Available here.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: November 12, 2020
From the Mass. DPH: November 12, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report”, provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic. Available here.
From the CDC: November 10, 2020
- The Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) published a scientific brief regarding the protection when wearing face masks consistently and correctly. Available here.
From the Mass. DPH: November 5, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report”, provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic. Available here.
From the CDC: November 4, 2020
- The Center for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) updated the Infection Control Guidance, providing different options for screening individuals prior to entering a healthcare facility, resources for evaluating ventilation systems in healthcare facilities and more. Available here.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: November 5, 2020
From the DPH: October 29, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report”, provides more detailed information and data regarding the pandemic. More here.
From MassLive: October 26, 2020
- The State has submitted an interim draft of the “Massachusetts COVID-19 Vaccination Plan” to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. More here.
From the CDC: October 21, 2020
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has revised the definition of “Close Contact”. More here.
From the DPH: October 20, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has revised the “Crisis Standards of Care: Planning Guidance for the COVID-19 Pandemic.“
From the DPH: October 14, 2020
From JAMA: Oct. 5, 2020
- The Journal of the American Medical Association outlines the potential long-term health effects of COVID-19. More here.
From the CDC: Oct. 5, 2020
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recognized that COVID-19 can be spread through the air. More here.
From DESE: Oct. 4, 2020
From the Mass. COVID-19 Response Command Center: Oct. 1, 2020
- Last week the Department of Public Health launched a COVID-19 Community Impact Survey – residents of MA, 14 years or older are encouraged to take the survey: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-community-impact-survey. Lower risk communities will transition to Phase III, Step II of the Commonwealth’s reopening plan on Monday, October 5. More here.
From the DPH: Sept. 30, 2020
From the NPIAP: Sept. 25, 2020
- The National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel has published Pressure Injury Prevention Tips for Prone Positioning. More here.
From the DPH: Sept. 25, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s (DPH) Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality updated the guidance for specimen collection for COVID-19 testing. The guidance clarified that unlicensed personnel may perform specimen collection if they are trained, demonstrate competency and have supervision. More here.
From the DPH: Sept. 25, 2020
- The Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report.” Read it here.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: Sept. 25, 2020
- Situation Update, 9/24/20: Governor Baker announces the 18 free testing sites in Massachusetts for the “Stop the Spread” initiative will remain open until October 31. Starting today Massachusetts has new guidance for visitation at long-term care facilities.
From the DPH: Sept. 16, 2020
- The Department of Public Health’s “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report.” More here.
From the DESE: Sept. 15, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has published reporting requirements for positive COVID-19 cases in schools and districts and mobile response unit overview. More here.
From the DPH: Sept. 15, 2020
From the DPH: September 10, 2020
- The Department of Public Health publishes a “Weekly COVID-19 Public Health Report” that details data regarding COVID cases, testing, deaths, etc. More here.
From Lab Manager: September 4, 2020
- The National Children’s Hospital in Washington reports that children with COVID-19, even those who are asymptomatic, may shed the virus for weeks. More here.
From the CDC: August 27, 2020
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a new web page, “How to Select, Wear, and Clean Your Mask.” More here. More here.
From the MDPH Immunization Division: August 27, 2020
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention Releases ACIP Recommendations on Use of Influenza Vaccines for 2020–21 Influenza Season. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Immunization Division has created an informational document with links to important information. Read more about the CDC’s recommendations regarding the influenza immunization during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which is available here.
From the DPH: Aug. 27, 2020
- On August 24, 2020, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention revised the standards for COVID-19 testing. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health guidelines do recommend testing of those who have had close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19. More here.
From the Mass.gov: Aug. 27, 2020
- The Mass.gov website has a comprehensive list of resources related to the reopening of Massachusetts. Here you will find many COVID-19, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education related Orders, Guidance’s, forms, etc. More here.
From the BMJ: August 25, 2020
- A British Journal of Medicine (BMJ) article reports, “Rigid safe distancing rules are an oversimplification based on outdated science and experiences of past viruses …”. More here.
From Medscape: August 25, 2020: Aug. 25, 2020
- Senior Trump administration officials said in July, hailing the distribution of point-of-care COVID antigen tests – which are cheaper and faster than tests that must be run by a lab, as a tool that could root out asymptomatic carriers who might still infect others. But there’s a hitch, two manufacturers that have received Food and Drug Administration authorization and whose instruments are being delivered say their antigen tests are intended for patients with symptoms, calling into question how valuable the tests would be for broad screening purposes. More here.
From the Coalion to Safely Reopen Schools: Aug. 25, 2020
- The Coalition to Safely Reopen Schools (The Coalition) is a statewide collaboraon of school nurses, teachers, parents, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, librarians, school support staff, janitorial staff, labor, and community advocates. The Coalition has an overarching goal to reopen schools safely. Access The Coaltion’s position statement here.
From the MNA: Aug. 24, 2020
- MNA Executive Director and RN Julie Pinkham talks about the most recent impacts of COVID-19, including the need to postpone the annual MNA business meeting, requirements for holding meetings at MNA offices, and our continued efforts to secure PPE for the potential second wave.YouTube link: https://youtu.be/bYlqQLZHCZU
From From Medscape: August 25, 2020: Aug. 24, 2020
- Researchers in Hong Kong report the first known human re-infection of COVID-19. A 33-year old male, was diagnosed with COVID-19 again four-and-a-half months after he had been discharged from the hospital. More here.
From the CDC: August 24, 2020
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: Aug. 20, 2020
From the American Association for the Advancement of Science: August 20, 2020
From the CDC: August 20, 2020
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has updated its travel requirements, no longer requiring a 14 day quarantine for those returning from a trip outside of their state or the country. Now the CDC is advising travelers to, “follow state, territorial, tribal and local recommendations or requirements after travel.” https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html?_ga=2.134455154.229104570.1598481764-819685918.1598481764
From the Department of Public Health: August 19, 2020
From the CDC: August 16, 2020
From the CDC: August 16, 2020
From the Boston Globe: Aug. 13, 2020
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: Aug. 14, 2020
From DESE: Aug. 11, 2020
- Guidance for Districts and Schools on Interpreting DPH COVID-19 Metrics: There has been much discussion about COVID-19 health and safety metrics that can be helpful guidelines for when schools re-open this school year. Such metrics should serve as a guide as to whether schools should open using full-time in-person, hybrid, or remote models, and will also support future decision-making if the impact of COVID-19 requires us to switch between educational models throughout the school year. More here.
From Tulane University: Aug. 11, 2020
- Disease Outbreak Response: Exploring the Critical Roles of Epidemiologists, Disease Detectives, and Other Public Health Experts. Accessible here.
From mass.gov: Aug. 7, 2020
- Last Friday, Governor Baker rolled back limitations on both indoor and outdoor gatherings. These revised DPH guidelines are available here.
From WebMD: Aug. 7, 2020
- One research endeavor has demonstrated inequities in minority children with testing positive for COVID-19. More here.
From the DPH: July 31, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has updated guidelines for aerosol generating procedures and PPE, clarifying the recommended personal protection needed and defining the various procedures that may cause aerosolization of the COVID-19 virus. More here.
From Mass.gov July 27, 2020
From mass.gov: July 26, 2020
From the CDC: July 26, 2020
- The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has issued new guidance for isolation following symptoms or testing positive for COVID-19. Available here.
From the DPH: July 20, 2020
- How to report COVID violations, eg: mask wearing, social distancing, to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reopening-covid-19-compliance
From the DESE: July 17, 2020
- The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has released protocols for responding to COVID-19 scenarios in school, on the bus, or in community settings. This guidance, a supplement to DESE’s Initial Fall School Reopening Guidance (available here) provides more information and protocols.
From the DPH: July 6, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has published Phase 3 reopening guidance for Acute Care Hospitals. Guidelines available here.
From the New York Times, July 4, 2020
- 239 Experts claim COVID-19 is airborne questioning evidence that is not being addressed by the World Health Organization. More here.
From the DPH, July 3, 2020
From the DESE: July 2, 2020
- Comprehensive Summer School Guidance posted on theMassachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary EducationCOVID-19 website. http://www.doe.mass.edu/covid19/on-desktop.html
From the DPH: June 30, 3030
- The Department of Public Health has issued guidelines for schools on “Handwashing Recommendations and Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer Use in Schools” AND: “Administration of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer”
From Texas Department of Health and Human Services: June 25, 2020
- The Texas Department of Health Services clarifies COVID-19 testing, explaining PCR, Antigen and Antibody testing. Available here.
From the FDA, June 19, 2020
From the Office of Gov. Baker: June 15, 2020
- COVID-19 ‘Pop Up” Testing Initiative — Large Gatherings — June 17-18: At his press conference this afternoon, Governor Charlie Baker announced a two-day ‘pop up’ testing initiative this Wednesday-Thursday—for anyone who has attended a recent large gathering.The new website, available here, is now liven. It contains details including locations for testing. This is the first time “anyone” can easily get tested. You don’t need to have symptoms or have had a recent exposure where you need to name names and get people contact traced.
From BU’s CARD: June 15, 2020
- Boston University’s Center for Anxiety and Related Disorders (CARD) is recruiting nurse participants for a very important research study entitled, “Through the eyes of nurses: COVID-19 and mental health functioning.” The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of the COVID-19 virus on behavioral and mental health outcomes among nurses, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), alcohol use disorders (AUD), generalized anxiety, suicidal ideation, depression, and poor health behaviors, as a result of exposure to COVID-related traumatic events. More here.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: June 13, 2020
From The Boston Globe: June 8, 2020
From the MNA: June 8, 2020
From the DPH: June 6, 2020
From the DPH: June 6, 2020
From the Cable News Network: June 5, 2020
From The New York Times: June 1, 2020
- Medical Workers Should Use Respirator Masks, Not Surgical Masks: A new analysis of 172 studies, funded by the World Health Organization, confirms what scientists have said for months: N95 and other respirator masks are far superior to surgical or cloth masks in protecting essential medical workers against the coronavirus. The results, published on Monday in The Lancet, make it clear that the W.H.O. and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention should recommend that essential workers like nurses and emergency responders wear N95 masks, not just surgical masks, experts said. “It’s been disappointing that both the W.H.O. and the C.D.C. have suggested that surgical masks are adequate, and they’re clearly not,” said David Michaels, a professor at George Washington University who headed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration under President Obama. “Reliance on surgical masks has no doubt led to many workers being infected,” he said. More here.
From the Massachusetts DPH: May 29, 2020
- Camp Settings: In preparation for the reopening of recreational camps, recreational programs, and childcare, Department of Public Health and the Department of Early Education and Care developed Minimum Requirements for Health and Safety that set standards and protocols to minimize the risk of COVID-19 to children, youth, and staff in child care and camp settings. More here.
From the Massachusetts Dept. of Early Education and Care: May 2, 82020
From Science: May 27, 2020
From the MNA: May 27, 2020
- Ellen MacInnis, an RN at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center, speaks at a Boston City Council Committee hearing on the occupational presumption of COVID-19 exposure to essential frontline workers Available here.
From the MNA: May 27, 2020
- In this week’s COVID-19 video: MNA Executive Director and RN Julie Pinkham talks on May 27, 2020 about the re-opening of normal operations criteria for Massachusetts hospitals and social distancing. Available here.
From the DPH: May 26, 2020
- Comprehensive PPE Guidance, Updated May 21, 2020. Available here.
From the MNA: May 26, 2020
- Massachusetts Nurses Association Synopsis of DPH Plan to Allow Reopening of Services in Acute Care Hospitals: On Monday, May 18, 2020 Governor Baker detailed a four-stage plan for the full reopening of the Massachusetts hospitals following the COVID-19 pandemic. The plan’s health and safety standards are centered on recommendations aimed at preventing the spread of the virus through social distancing, handwashing, and hygiene protocols, staffing and operations, and cleaning and disinfecting. The plan also includes guidance from DPH “for how acute care hospitals[1] can begin in-person provision of a limited number of additional, necessary services and procedures without jeopardizing health system capacity or the public health standards that are essential to protecting healthcare workers, patients, families, and the general public.” This synopsis highlights key aspects of the plan for MNA members as well as all nurses and healthcare professionals, who will be providing care during this crucial reopening period. The, MNA will be working closely with its members to monitor this process and to ensure that hospital organizations remain cognizant of the health and safety standards for healthcare practices that are mandated by DPH in order to protect residents and the workforce that is providing essential healthcare. Visit here for the MNA’s complete synopsis.
For quick access to the DPH Guidance document, visit here.
From the MNA: May 26, 2020
- Boston City Council Support for Occupational Presumption:
“Order for Public Hearing on Need for Occupational Presumption for Essential Workers” available here. And “Letter to Governor Baker Calling of Occupational Presumption Legislation” available here.
From DPH: May 21, 2020
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health Guidance Reopen Approach for Acute Care Hospitals. Available here.
From DPH: May 19, 2020
- Details from the Department of Public Health’s published plan for reopening Health and Human Services on nurse-to-patient ratios and elective invasive procedures. More here.
From DPH: May 19, 2020
- The Department of Public Health has published detailed plans for the reopening of Health and Human Services in MA. More information here.
From the NIOSH: May 18, 2020
- The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is aware that many different NIOSH-approved filtering facepiece respirator (FFR) models distributed during the COVID-19 response were stockpiled for prolonged periods of time.These FFRs are made using different materials (e.g., filtering media and strap material), which may age or degrade over time and become damaged. Learn more here.
From the DPH: May 18, 2020
- This link provides access to currently available information about “reopening Massachusetts.” In addition, this PDF provides a detailed plan for the reopening of Massachusetts from the Department of Public Health in particular. Please note that on an ongoing basis the MNA has be reviewing all materials and information from the state specifc to “reopening,” and it has offered, and it will continue to offer, its insight, suggestions, and concerns. For up-to-date news from the MNA on these matters, visit https://www.massnurses.org/news-and-events/p/openItem/11730
From the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel: May 14, 2020
- Tips on preserving skin integrity with the extensive use of face masks. Available here.
From the DPH Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences: May 14, 2020
- The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has issued guidelines for reporting cases of Pediatric Multi-system Inflammatory Syndrome.Available here.
From Medscape: May 14, 2020
From the Mass. DPH Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences: May 13, 2020
- Testing of Persons with Suspect COVID-19: The Massachusetts Department of Public Health issued a letter detailing eligibility for COVID testing and the status of serological testing (noting that most tests currently available have not received FDA Emergency Use Authorization [EUA]). More here.
From the MNA: May 12, 2020
- In this week’s COVID-19 video: Attorney Charlie C. Donoghue discusses Workers’ Compensation and COVID-19. View here.
From the MNA: May 12, 2020
- In recognition of National Nurses Week, the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale, the “International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife,” and the unprecedented challenges facing nurses and healthcare professionals, the Massachusetts Nurses Association has issued “A Nurse’s Pledge for the 21st Century.” View here.
From the MNA: May 12, 2020
- MNA’s May 11 letter to Governor Baker regarding requirements for successful return to normalized operations for healthcare facilities. Available here.
From the MNA: May 12, 2020
- This week’s attachment to the MNA’s May 11 letter to Governor Baker. Full letter available above and here.
From the Mass. DPH Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences: May 11, 2020
- Recommendation for Routine Molecular Testing of People Identified as Close Contacts to COVID-19 Cases: As the pandemic evolves, public health needs and priorities are evolving as well. The number of new cases seems to be slowly declining but as restrictions begin to loosen, it becomes increasingly critical that the healthcare and public health systems work together to identify every case. Rapid identification of cases and identification of their close contacts is a priority. More here.
From The Center for Investigative Reporting: May 11, 2020
- “31,000 and Counting.” A lobbying campaign driven by scarcity pushed the CDC to relax protective gear guidelines. Now tens of thousands of health workers are infected.A lobbying campaign driven by scarcity pushed the CDC to relax protective gear guidelines. Now tens of thousands of health workers are infected. Full article here.
From the MNA: May 11, 2020
- If you, or anyone you know (patients included), have experienced any adverse events or side effects from N95 masks that have been decontaminated using Hydrogen Peroxide Vapors, please file an incident report, and also report these reactions to your Occupational Health Department, the MNA, and to MedWatch – The FDA Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program. Prompt reporting of adverse events can help the FDA identify and better understand the risks associated with medical devices.
- Complete and submit the report online
- Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.
From the MNA: May 11, 2020
- MNA Retirees Call for Safe Personal Protective Equipment for Frontline Caregivers Battling COVID-19 in Video Released During National Nurses Week. More here.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: May 8, 2020
From the Office of Gov. Baker: May 7, 2020
- Many questions are arising regarding professional licenses and certifications. On March 18th, Governor Baker signed an emergency “Order Extending the Registration of Certain Licensed Professionals.” More here, or for additional questions visit BORN COVID-19 Licenses.
From the MNA: May 7, 2020
- We need Occupational Presumption Legislation Now! This legislation would ensure that that any healthcare worker who contracts the coronavirus got it at work and makes sure that no healthcare worker has to use his or her own PTO or sick time to quarantine, treat, or recover from the coronavirus. No one we deem essential should be harmed if they get sick doing their jobs. Contact your legislators by clicking here; tell them to support the passage of the Occupational Presumption Legislation!
From the MNA: May 6, 2020
- During National Nurses Week 2020, MNA Nurses and Healthcare Professionals Launch Video Campaign to Thank Public and Urge Social Distancing. More here.
From the MNA: May 5, 2020
- Helpful resources reagrding temporary unemployment insurance, workers’ compensation, and the CARES Act, including:
- MNA Members’ Rights to COVID-19-Related Temporary Unemployment Insurance and Workers’ Compensation
- The CARES Act and Unemployment: Help when COVID-19 stops you from working
- Your rights to Workers Compensation for healthcare workers sick with COVID19
- Filing a New Unemployment Claim: A Step-by-Step PowerPoint
From the MNA: May 5, 2020
- In this week’s COVID-19 video, MNA executive director Julie Pinkham discusses guidelines on steps that must be taken to ensure safe patient care as hospitals reopen for elective surgeries and care for non-COVID patients during the next phase of the pandemic response. View here.
From the MNA: May 5, 2020
From the MNA: May 5, 2020
- Attachment to this week’s letter to Governor Baker: A list of ongoing issues and recommendations associated with the Commonwealth’s response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) raised in previous communications. Available here.
From the Mass. COVID-19 Command Center: May 5, 2020
From the MNA: May 4, 2020
From the MNA: May 4, 2020
- The CARES Act and Unemployment: Help when COVID-19 stops you from working. On March 27, 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. More here.
From the Mass. Division of Insurance: April 17 (posted here on May 4, 2020)
- Your rights to Workers Compensation for healthcare workers sick with COVID19: April 17 draft advisory letter sent to stakeholders statewide by the Mass. Division of Insurance. More here.
From the MNA: April 30, 2020
- Background on Use of KN95 Respirators When N95s Aren’t Available: Due to the shortage of N95s and the disrupted supply chain, the MNA requested all credenaling and cerficaons associated with the manufacturing and material used in the producon of KN95 masks prior to the actual purchase. We did this to ensure we were purchasing the best product available at the me. This informaon was reviewed by a Cerfied Industrial Hygienist who helped MNA conclude that in fact the material was FDA approved and the best product we could purchase. More here.
From the MNA: April 30, 2020
- MNA members have prepared this powerful video on the current state of PPE for nurses, how this PPE fails to meet appropriate standards, and how this situation supports the need for the legislature to pass legislation that grants nurses the presumption that any exposure to COVID-19 is due to occupational exposure, thus granting nurses to access to proper compensation and support. More here.
From the MNA: April 29, 2020
From the MNA: April 29, 2020
From the MNA: April 28, 2020
From the MNA: April 28, 2020
From the MNA: April 28, 2020
- Weekly COVID-19 update from the MNA’s executive director, Julie Pinkham. Topics include: continued distribution of PPE by the MNA, worker’s compensation, and coping with the surge. View here.
From the Mass. Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development: April 27, 2020
From HIPPO Education: April 27, 2020
From Buoy Health: April 25, 2020
- The COVID-19 “Symptom Checker” is now connected with the new Contact Tracing project, a collaboration between Partners’ in Health and DPH. The website enables MA residents to assess their symptoms and find the right care for COVID-19. It’s a first in the nation, complex, well thought-out project with hundreds of people already on board, trained and involved in tracing contacts. More here.
From the New York Times: April 23, 2020
- R0, the Messy Metric That May Soon Shape Our Lives, Explained. This article explains the “R0” and the serial interval, which are calculations of infectiousness and the speed of spread of an infection in an easily understood way. This article helps readers to understand the potential trajectory of COVID-19. More here.
From the State of Massachusetts: April 22, 2020
- COVID-19 State of Emergency: Updates, emergency orders, and guidance associated with the COVID-19 State of Emergency. These revised guidelines were released April 20, 2020, with additional clarifications to prevent unfair discrimination in response to concerns raised by members or representatives of vulnerable and marginalized communities about the application of the guidelines exacerbating existing inequalities in access to and delivery of health care. (Look under: Updates, Emergency Orders, and Guidance, then: Crisis Standards of Care, click on “Guidance”). More here.
From the MNA: April 21, 2020
From the MNA: April 21, 2020
- Weekly COVID-19 update from the MNA’s executive director, Julie Pinkham. Topics include: Achieving proper mask fit, COVID testing for healthcare workers, and the importance of colleague camaraderie during the pandemic. View here.
From the National Institute of Health: April 21, 2020
- NIH COVID 19 Treatment Guidelines. These Treatment Guidelines have been developed to inform clinicians how to care for patients with COVID-19. Because clinical information about the optimal management of COVID-19 is evolving quickly, these Guidelines will be updated frequently as published data and other authoritative information becomes available. More here.
From EM Daily: April 20, 2020
From the NEJMvideo: April 20, 2020
- The video below, the first of two that the MNA recommends for viewing, shows steps for prone positioning of patients with ARDS who are receiving mechanical ventilatory support in the intensive care unit.
From Rush University Medical Center: April 20, 2020
- Some COVID-19 patients are experiencing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and require mechanical ventilation. While a patient is on a ventilator, Rush staff use a technique called “prone positioning” to improve oxygenation. Rush has developed a four-phase checklist to facilitate the process of placing a patient into the prone position. The process consists of six staff members working together to correctly place a patient into position.This video (below) is the second on this issue that the MNA recommends for viewing. The related manual that is highlighted in the video is available here.
From Rush University Medical Center: April 20, 2020
From ScienceDaily: April 20, 2020 (originally published March 24, 2020)
- A Wuhan study shows lying face down improves breathing in severe COVID-19: In a new study of patients with severe COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) hospitalized on ventilators, researchers found that lying face down was better for the lungs. The research letter was published online in the American Thoracic Society’s American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. More here.
From MassCOSH.org: April 19, 2020
- COVID-19 Toolkit For Essential Workers: Health and Safety Protections and How to Make Them Happen. This guide was compiled by the MassCOSH Health Tech Committee, a committee of occupational health and safety experts, and is updated regularly to reflect the most recent information available in the field. More here.
From FrontlineMA.org and the office of the Attorney General: April 18, 2020
Frontline workers are working around the clock and are exposed to patients every day. Alternative accommodations help limit the risk of transmission to families of frontline workers. Individual health care workers and first responders who are seeking accommodations should reach out to their department chief or hospital team. The Attorney General’s Office is working with stakeholders to develop additional housing options and will continue to update this page with new information. More here.
From Suzanne M. Slattery, Ph.D., and Claire Slattery: April 17, 2020
Traumatic stress involves both mind and body responses. It is our natural and healthy way of coping with extreme stress and overwhelming feelings. Right now, nurses and other healthcare professionals are experiencing acute and post-traumatic stress from working with patients who are critically ill, becoming permanently disabled and dying.
Acute traumatic stress responses follow the immediate aftermath of exposure to traumatic events and may involve anxiousness, tearfulness, irritability, and anger and/or at times feeling avoidant, flat, shut down or distant. Signs of posttraumatic stress (PTSD) include repeated, disturbing images or thoughts of the trauma; loss of interest in usual activities you enjoy; becoming easily startled or jumpy; feeling distant from others; avoidance or feeling numb; worrying about the safety of self or loved ones; and persistent arousal such as heart palpitations, sweating and/or sleep disturbances.
Getting help and support can help reduce traumatic stress responses. Focusing on both mind and body approaches can help increase healing from trauma. More here.
From the MNA: April 15, 2020
- With Help from Generous Donor, MNA Purchases and Begins to Distribute Tens of Thousands of Desperately Needed KN95 Respirator Masks to Its Nurses and Healthcare Professionals Across the State: In the wake of dangerous delays in the provision of desperately needed personal protective equipment (PPE) for nurses and healthcare professionals (HCPs) during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lack of an adequate state and federal effort to provide needed protections, the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), in conjunction with donors, contractors, and outside organizations, has successfully acquired and is now distributing a significant quantity of PPE and other supplies to its members statewide. More here.
From Dr. Kevin Kavanagh: April 15, 2020
- Dr. Kevin Kavanagh from Health Watch USA℠ discusses the United States’ defunding of the World Health Organization, along with food safety with COVID-19. In addition, insights into when to open the economy. View his related YouTube video here.
From Sen. Diana DiZoglio: April 14, 2020
From the Methuen/Haverhill Legislative Delegation: April 14, 2020
- Letter to Secretary Marylou Sudders from Methuen/Haverhill Delegation Regarding Steward ICU Closures
From the MNA: April 14, 2020
From the MNA: April 14, 2020
- Julie Pinkham, MNA executive director, in this week’s COVID-19 video.
From the MNA: April 13, 2020
- Letter to Attorney General Maura Healey Regarding Closure of ICUs by Steward Healthcare: “We write to ask for your intervention in these extremely urgent situations: In the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, Steward Health Care indefinitely closed the Intensive Care Units (ICU) at Nashoba Valley Medical Center (NVMC) in Ayer and Holy Family Hospital’s Merrimack campus (the former Merrimack Valley Hospital) and Cape Cod Health Care (CCHC) announced the permanent closure of maternity and pediatrics at Falmouth Hospital. All were shuttered without the required 90-day notice to state and local authorities, and without the owner’s submission of plans and public hearings that are explicitly required under 105 CMR 130.122. The attached letter to Health and Human Services Secretary Sudders provides more detail.” More here.
From Reuters Health Information: April 12, 2020
The World Health Organization (WHO) said on Saturday that it was looking into reports of some COVID-19 patients testing positive again after initially testing negative for the disease while being considered for discharge. South Korean officials on Friday reported 91 patients thought cleared of the new coronavirus had tested positive again. Jeong Eun-kyeong, director of the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, told a briefing that the virus may have been “reactivated” rather than the patients being re-infected. More here.
From the MNA: April 10, 2020
- COVID-19 Pulmonary, ARDS and Ventilator Resources.To date, the most serious reported symptoms from COVID-19 are pulmonary complications. “COVID-19 Pulmonary, ARDS and Ventilator Resources” quickly provides learners with the knowledge and resources to provide essential care to ICU patients with coronavirus. To support you and other nurses who need to cross train to care for patients with COVID-19, AACN is making this eLearning course available for all nurses, at no charge, to provide vital resources during this challenging time. More here.
From the MNA: April 10, 2020
- Position Statement on the Deployment of Students in COVID-19 Healthcare Environment. “The Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), which represents nurses and health professionals working on the front lines of the global COVID-19 pandemic, is asking governmental and academic leadership to reflect upon the following concerns prior to making a determination related to mobilizing student nurses and/or the granting of temporary licensure to senior students to staff our acute care healthcare settings.” More here.
From the U.S. Department of Labor: April 8, 2020
- U.S. Department of Labor Reminds Employers That They Cannot Retaliate Against Workers Reporting Unsafe Conditions During Coronavirus Pandemic. The U.S Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is reminding employers that it is illegal to retaliate against workers because they report unsafe and unhealthful working conditions during the coronavirus pandemic. Acts of retaliation can include terminations, demotions, denials of overtime or promotion, or reductions in pay or hours. Employees have the right to safe and healthy workplaces,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary Loren Sweatt. “Any worker who believes that their employer is retaliating against them for reporting unsafe working conditions should contact OSHA immediately.” Full media release here.
From the Mass. Department of Public Health: April 8, 2020
- Crisis Standards of Care: Planning Guidance for the COVID-19 Pandemic. “Crisis care must be the best care it can be in light of the circumstances and available resources. The purpose of this document is to provide guidance for the triage of critically ill patients in the event that the public health emergency caused by the COVID-19 pandemic creates demand for critical care resources that outstrips the supply.” Please note that it is the MNA’s formal position that nurses, the caregivers on the front lines, must always be given a voice and be included in the decision-making process around crisis standards of care.
From the MNA: April 8, 2020
- MNA Seeks Nurses Willing to Keep Video Journal: For a History of the Crisis and for Emotional Health. The MNA is looking for nurses who would be interested in keeping a video journal to document and share what they are experiencing during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are interested in sharing your video journal entries and potentially having them posted on our Facebook page or our COVID-19 page for others to see, feel free to email them to Erin Servaes at eservaes@mnarn.org. Be assured, nothing will be posted or shared without your final review and approval. You are all true heroes and have stories that can benefit each one of us.
From the MNA: April 7, 2020
From the MNA: April 7, 2020
- Letter to HHS secretary, Marylou Sudders on recent ICU closures in midst of COVID-19 crisis. “Dear Secretary Sudders: We write to express concern over the decision by Steward Health Care to close two intensive care units (ICUs) in two hospitals this past week without notice to the community or the Department of Public Health (DPH) as would be required by law.” More here.
From the MNA: April 7, 2020
- MNA executive director Julie Pinkham in this week’s COVID-19 video.
From the Mass. EOHHS: April 6, 2020
From the Mass. Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality: April 6, 2020
From the MNA: April 6, 2020
- The MNA has launched “Meditations for Nurses,” because we recognize the toll the COVID-19 crisis is taking on you, both personally and professionally. The seemingly insurmountable obstacles that you encounter at work affect you mental health, your physical health, and your emotional health. We also know, as do you, that it will likely be a very, very long time before we return to our “normal” lives. Nobody, but especially not our nurses, should be expected to pack all that away each day and ignore their own wellbeing. With that reality in mind, we are providing the following meditation resources to help you gain a sense of calm and momentary relaxation whenever you need it most, day or night.
From the Nurses’ Health Study II: April 3, 2020
- It has been challenging to track rates of COVID-19 infection. Nurses’ Health Study II, is trying to tackle this issue, and invites nurses to help address this challenge by taking 1-3 minutes per day to log their daily health status on a new COVID-19 symptom tracker that they have developed in collaboration with physicians and epidemiologists at King’s College and software engineers at Zoe, a health data science company. More at https://secure.campaigner.com/csb/Public/show/c3i2-1wdu0e–pd485-6wiwvux7
From MNA: April 3, 2020
From Mass. EOHHS: April 3, 2020
From the Joint Commission: March 31, 2020
From the MNA: March 31, 2020
From the MNA: March 31, 2020
From the MNA: March 31, 2020
- MNA executive director Julie Pinkham reviews all things PPE in this video, and explains what PPE practices and protocols will keep nurses, healthcare staff, patients, and the public the safest.
From the Science Daily: March 29, 2020
More evidence supporting why N95s must always be worn by ALL nurses and other hospital staff who are part of a patient’s care team. As we’ve said before, we must now assume that everyone in the hospital is contagious, and that includes people who have “recovered.” Visit massnurses.org/Covid-19 for continuously updated information that is essential to your practice and your wellbeing.
From The TODAY Show: March 29, 2020
- A powerful video from the TODAY Show that recognizes the sacrifice of the dedicated RNs, doctors, and first responders who are working day and night in the fight against COVID-19
From mass.gov: March 28, 2020
Please note that high-risk individuals, including people who are immunocompromised and/or have diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, or may be pregnant, are likely NOT good candidates for this opportunity. Appropriate PPE that meets scientific standards is NOT available, so it is important that those offering their services be in good health given the potential for exposure and illness.
From BNN, via YouTube: March 27, 2020
- Video Nurses Raise Alarm for More Protective Gear
Donna Kelly-Williams, MNA president, in her remote interview with BNN.
From the Mass. DPH: March 26, 2020
From the MNA: March 26, 2020
From the MNA: March 25, 2020
From Dr. Charlene Irvin Babcock, via YouTube : March 26, 2020
- Video on “How to Use One Ventilator to Save Multiple Lives During the COVID-19 Epidemic”
While we hope such choices do not come to pass, it is important, in these unprecedented times, that we prepare ourselves with the best options to give as many patients in need of vent-support the best possible chances for treatment, care, and survival. Thinking ahead and preparing for the likelihood that a surge in patients is going to result in a significant shortage of ventilators, learning how to use one ventilator on multiple patients at a time is both appropriate and compassionate.
From NSO: March 26, 2020
From Medscape: March 26, 2020
From FDA MedWatch: March 26, 2020
From Infection Control Today: March 26, 2020
There is mounting consensus that ACE inhibitors may be a primary driver of the severe symptoms. The concerns were originally raised in the Lancet. ACE inhibitors up regulate (increase) the ACE2 receptor. This is the receptor the COVID-19 virus uses to attack the lungs.
From the New England Journal of Medicine: March 25, 2020
From the University of Minnesota, CIDRAP: March 25, 2020
From the mass.gov: March 24, 2020
From CovidActNow.org: March 24, 2020
- CovidActNow.org was created by a team of data scientists, engineers, and designers in partnership with epidemiologists, public health officials, and political leaders to help understand how the COVID-19 pandemic will affect their region. Click the map to see projections for your state.
From the MNA: March 24, 2020
- Video on MNA’s Current COVID-19 Recommendations
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Assume everyone in the hospital is COVID-positive; PPE updates; safe housing and parking for hospital staff; the reality about those cloth masks; donation considerations; and more.
From the MNA: March 24, 2020
From the Office of Governor Baker: March 23, 2020
From the Mass. Director of the Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality: March 22, 2020
From the MNA: March 20, 2020
The MNA believes that due to this unique virus that has already spread throughout our communities, all RNs working in a hospital and all visiting nurses should be wearing surgical grade N95 masks with a face shield. If we are to stop the rapid spread of the virus this step needs to be taken now. It will do no one any good if in three weeks we have saved N95 masks, but 40% of the RNs are ill and cannot care for patients. Guidance on donning and doffing can also be accessed and printed from here: Donning PDF and Doffing PDF
From the MNA: March 19, 2020
From the MNA: March 19, 2020
- Video on MNA’s COVID-19 Recommendations
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From WIRED: March 19, 2020
From the MNA: March 18, 2020
From the MNA: March 18, 2020
From The New England Journal of Medicine: March 17, 2020
From The Boston Globe: March 17, 2020
From the Mass. Bureau of Health Care Safety and Quality: March 16, 2020
the MNA: March 14, 2020
From the CDC: March 13, 2020
From the WHO: March 12, 2020
