March 11, 2021
In today’s update, you will find important information, including:
- Vaccine Audio Broadcast Recording and Summary
- In the News: Patient Released from WMC after 97 Days
- New Approved Isolation Mask
- TB Screening and COVID-19 Vaccines
- Updated Allergy Information on COVID-19 Vaccines
- KPNW Superhero Award Winner
Vaccine Audio Broadcast Recording and Summary
If you missed the March 9 audio broadcast, you can:
- Listen to the audio recording (password: kpnw2021). Important updates were provided on the following topics. Use the timestamps to listen to or review key information with your team.
- Welcome and Community Update | Wendy Watson (00:00 – 06:51)
- Internal Planning for Vaccine Surge | Michelle Teeples (06:52 – 13:00)
- Clinical Vaccine Updates | Dr. Katie Sharff (13:01 – 30:53)
- SW Washington Update | Jason Curl (30:54 – 36:34)
- Close | Dr. Mary Giswold (36:35 – 38:51)
- Review a summary of the March 9 discussion.
Join our next live audio broadcast on Tuesday, March 23, at 12:10 p.m.
In the News: Patient Released from WMC after 97 Days
Last night, KOIN 6 News shared another KPNW success story. Kim Stoutt was able to return home after nearly 100 days at WMC recovering from COVID-19. The message from her family, “don’t lose hope.” https://www.koin.com/news/health/coronavirus/covid-patient-returns-home-after-nearly-100-days-in-hillsboro-hospital/
New Approved Isolation Mask
We will soon offer a new isolation mask, the Dukal 1541, as we have worked through our available stock of BYD isolation masks. This product is being rolled out to all KP regions. Dukal 1541 masks meet the recommended CDC standard of ASTM level 1 for isolation masks. KP has validated the level of protection provided through testing via a third party and has confirmed they meet the CDC standard of ASTM level 1. In addition, our Interregional Infection Prevention & Control department has affirmed that Dukal 1541 masks meet the appropriate standards and fall in line with our Universal Mask Guidance.
Please note: Dukal 1541 masks may feel thinner than BYDs, which are ASTM level 2, but provide adequate protection in settings where we have been using BYDs. Also, although the packaging states “surgical mask”, Dukal 1541 masks should not be used in the ORs because they have ear loops. We will continue to provide approved ASTM level 2 surgical masks in those settings.
TB Screening and COVID-19 Vaccines
Have questions on timing of TB screening in a COVID-19 vaccine setting? New guidelines have been posted on InfoHub at COVID-19 vaccine and tuberculosis screening.
Updated Allergy Information on COVID-19 Vaccines
Please see the updates on contraindications and precautions now that we have a third vaccine, Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) under Emergency Use Authorization. A 15-minute observation period is required for all vaccines, and individuals with a history of allergies should be observed for 30 minutes. People with a contraindication to one of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccines should not receive doses of either mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna). However, people with a contraindication to mRNA COVID-19 vaccines may be able to receive the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine, and vice versa, provided precaution measures are taken.
Help Patients Get Prescriptions Quickly
There’s another option for members who want convenient, fast prescription delivery. Last week, the pharmacy began offering same-day and next-day prescription deliveries through the KP app and on kp.org. Delivery charges apply. This service is available for new prescriptions and refills EXCEPT compounded medications and OTCs. A valid credit card is required for payment. For more information, refer to the attachment.
KPNW Superhero Award Winner
Ron Shoals, Program Manager, Employee Community Engagement, Community Health
When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Ron immediately paused volunteer opportunities to ensure the safety of our staff in the community. Shortly thereafter, the marches in protest of racism began. Ron has long served as an ambassador for elevating KP’s commitment to social and health equity, and the protests further fueled his passion and commitment. Read more.
The KPNW Superhero Award celebrates this excellence by recognizing the creative and collaborative ways your teammates support our company, our members, and community. Help spread the word! Post the KPNW Superhero Award flier in break rooms, and wherever teams gather for meetings / huddles and nominate your hero today!
Vaccination Quick Facts
Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of March 10. For more information on vaccination rates by age and race/ethnic group and prime and booster doses by geographic service areas, visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard.
NWP 365 Podcast Episodes
Episode 141 | Dr. Dantas speaks with Dr. Spindel about the latest CDC guidelines and patients who give blood.