Crisis! No one wants to think about a crisis. Unfortunately, it's usually, when faced with an emergency, that we stop and think about doing something about it. It's too late.  

According to the Boy Scouts, "Be Prepared" means "you are always in a state of readiness in mind and body to do your duty." Similarly, we in the medical profession should follow that advice and "be prepared" for unexpected crises because often, it's not IF it happens; it's when.  

If you think, "Oh, that can't happen here," think again. How often have you seen PM news report cars plowing through podiatry office buildings and demolishing a practice? Granted, this crisis example may be extreme, and frankly, I'm at a loss regarding how one prepares for that catastrophe. However, there ARE emergencies that we may face that are much more common. It is in these moments of potential crisis that preparedness is our friend.  

How prepared are you in these more likely situations: Patients in medical distress, fires, computer crashes, destructive weather, data loss from power outages, injuries and accidents, chemical spills, belligerent patients, theft, bomb scares, terrorist attacks, active shootings…pandemic outbreaks?? More specifically, have you created a Disaster Action Plan for each one? If not, when would be an excellent time to get started?  

I could outline some comprehensive steps to take in each of the above situations, but space would not allow it. Instead, here is an overview of measures for the more common scenarios that you should consider creating a disaster action plan for your office. By the way, making this plan to avert a crisis is an excellent and worthwhile topic for you and your staff to discuss at your next staff meeting. Please put it on the agenda. 

Medical distress: Have a recognizable verbal signal, "STAT," that alerts everyone in practice to be present and aware. Upon doctor's direction, follow emergency protocol (dial 911, retrieve O2, Ambu bag, emergency kit, etc., assist doctor, calm patients.) Everyone should have a distinctive role to avoid confusion, running around helplessly and wondering what to do. 

Fire: Remember grammar school and participating in fire drills? Why should that not apply here? Know where your fire extinguishers are, alert the fire department (911), help all patients evacuate the building and do not re-enter without an OK from the fire department. Have annual inspections, and create and post an escape plan. 

Injuries and accidents: What if a staffer on a stepstool falls and is injured? Or does a patient slip on a wet floor or trip to the treatment room? Make sure the person is offered outside medical attention if needed. Then take measures to prevent similar injuries. All accidents should be reported immediately to the doctor, office manager, and OSHA coordinator, and an injury claim should be filed. 

Chemical spills: One of your staffers are setting up for a matrixectomy when the phenol bottle tips over and spills over the counter, onto the floor, and their skin. Every office should have a spill kit with PPE and materials to avoid spread. Follow MSDS instructions for that chemical, and alert people nearby. If needed, utilize the eyewash station, properly dispose of hazardous waste, and report spills to a manager and OSHA coordinator.  

Belligerent patients: We tend to tolerate the destructive behaviors of some patients. However, it should not be ignored if patients demonstrate abusive – physical or verbal – personalities with the doctor, staff members, or another patient. Rather than the victim taking matters into their own hands, make it clear WHO should deal with the accused individual and then WHAT further action needs to be taken. If setting boundaries does not work and you cannot ease the situation, notify authorities and discharge this individual from the practice.  

In each case, it helps to "Be Prepared." Train now and be safe, not sorry. The goal is to keep you, your staff, and your patients safe. 

Note: I have a 9-page (double-sided) "Emergency Action Plan Template" to help you customize your specific plan. Just email me for a complimentary copy – lynn@soshms.com.