May/June 2009
Swine Flu (H1N1 ) - Information for Nurses
The outbreak of novel Influenza A/H1N1 (formerly referred to as swine flu) continues to evolve, and the American Nurses Association (ANA) monitors the release of information, especially guidance that most pertains to nurses. This page provides links and articles that nurses will find helpful in ensuring that they, their families, their patients, and their communities are most ready to respond to this outbreak of flu.
Despite decreased presence of H1N1 stories in the news media, the virus is still spreading. Nurses should maintain vigilance for individuals with symptoms, but should also keep educating patients and communities about handwashing and social distancing when ill, which protects from many infectious diseases. There is potential for this virus to reemerge in the typical flu season, and the ANA will remain active in the planning for this, including vaccine development and healthcare worker protection.
Comprehensive site on Pandemic Flu: Visit www.Pandemicflu.gov – the U.S. government’s site for all information on preparing for and responding to a pandemic, including preparedness plans, latest outbreak news, and lots of information on how the US will respond to a pandemic.
Investigation of the outbreak: The spread of the novel H1N1 influenza virus continues. The CDC expects more reports of cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. While the case numbers continue to climb, severity has remained low - about as virulent as seasonal flu viruses. Percentage wise, mortality from the H1N1 flu virus has been consistent with seasonal flu, though few deaths have been attributed to H1N1 flu.
Signs and Symptoms of H1N1 Flu – the same as seasonal flu!
Fever and body aches are the most telling signs of H1N1 flu. Other signs are cough and occasionally vomiting and diarrhea. Other symptoms include lethargy and occasionally sore throat and nausea. A person is believed to be contagious one day before symptom onset, and up to seven days after becoming sick. In children, the signs and symptoms may be difficult from other respiratory viruses, so a good history is essential.
What to do if you suspect a patient has H1N1 Flu
Obtain a nasal swab, refrigerate, and send via local or state health department to a state health department lab for testing. Most states have the capability to do the testing for H1N1 flu in their state laboratories.
Use of masks and other PPE
The CDC has recommended that only health care workers providing care to or collecting specimens from suspected or confirmed cases of H1N1 flu wear personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves, gowns, goggles, and a fit-tested N-95 mask. As with seasonal flu, nurses and other health care workers caring for persons with confirmed or suspected cases should use standard, droplet, and contact precautions. **Remember that staff must be fully tested for a proper fit per the OSHA guidelines linked below before using an N-95 mask in order for it to be effective.