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Background
Intervention Package
Additional Online Resources
Network 5 seeks to improve the seasonal flu immunization rate for the period September 1, 2009-March 31, 2010, through an influenza immunization awareness campaign, together with primary data collection and the provision of educational materials. Targets for the intervention are hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients receiving care in all settings, with the exception of military treatment centers, Veterans Health Administration hospitals, acute care facilities, and prisons. Adult and pediatric patients, including dialysis patients in nursing home-based units are included.
Background
Patients undergoing dialysis have long been recognized as a vulnerable and underserved population that can benefit from immunizations which decrease the risk of hospitalization and death. Annual vaccination is the most effective method for preventing the seasonal influenza according to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). During the Network's 2008-2009 influenza initiative, the majority of eligible Network facilities (84.5%) participated to achieve an overall adult influenza vaccination rate of 82.6% and an 89.9% vaccination rate among pediatric patients, representing substantial progress toward the overall 2010 goal of 90%.
For the 2009-2010 flu season, a similar awareness and education campaign, paired with a pre-populated tracking tool, aims to encourage dialysis facility staff to offer seasonal influenza vaccination to all eligible patients. Recognizing the unique challenges posed by the emerging H1N1 virus, the CDC recommends beginning seasonal influenza immunizations as soon as the vaccine becomes available.
Protect yourself and those around you –
get the seasonal flu vaccine!
Intervention Package
A combination of interventions is recommended to optimize influenza vaccination rates in each dialysis facility:
- Provide education and awareness for the benefits of receiving flu vaccine to both patients and staff based on your facility's unique needs.
- Assess and track the influenza immunization status of every patient.
- Provide easy accessibility for receiving flu vaccine.
Each Network facility will receive an intervention package that includes the following tools and resources:
- Influenza Immunization Tracking Tool -
In accordance with the Conditions for Coverage requirement that all facilities track the immunization status of all patients [§494.80[a](3)], Network 5 is providing a hard copy of the Influenza Immunization Tracking Tool that has been pre-populated with the first name, last name, and Social Security number of each patient dialyzing in the facility as of September 1, 2009. Upon receipt, facilities should download the electronic version (Excel spreadsheet) via the above link and use it to track the immunization status of their patients. This tool will calculate the immunization rates for both adult and pediatric patients in the facility. The Facility Summary should be submitted to the Network by February 15, 2010, (interim measure) and April 15, 2010 (final measure).
- Influenza Immunization Tracking Tool Guide - Detailed instructions for completing and submitting the Influenza Immunization Tracking Tool.
- Influenza Resource List - "Protect yourself and those around you – get the seasonal flu vaccine" resources available online. Download free, reliable information to support and strengthen your individual facility's flu immunization programs. Take the opportunity now to vaccinate your patients and your facility staff.
- 2009-2010 Vaccine Information Statement - The Vaccine Information Statements (VIS), produced by the CDC, explain both the benefits and risks of vaccination to vaccine recipients and their parents or legal representatives. Available in multiple languages.
- 2009-2010 Vaccination Pocket Guides - A quick reference for health professionals based on the National Influenza Vaccine Summit. Included are immunization indications, contraindications and precautions, dosing, side effects, and talking points.
- "It's Federal Law" -
Federal regulations for the distribution of Vaccine Information Sheets (VIS) to all patients receiving the influenza vaccination.
- Instructions for the Use of Vaccine Information Sheets - Provides definitions and medical recordkeeping requirements. View the Provider Responsibilities 2009 Update.
- 5-Diamond Patient Safety Brochure - Presents an overview of the 5-Diamond Patient Safety Program and offers facilities the opportunity to receive recognition for influenza immunization activities.
- Fax Back Form - Confirmation that the electronic version of the data collection tool has been downloaded according to the Tracking Tool Guide, and that the project introduction memo was shared with facility leaders and staff. Return by October 15, 2009.
- Stay Healthy during Flu Season - Simple everyday tips for staying healthy and what to do if you become sick.
- Project Evaluation - Evaluate the materials provided during the project and return to the Network by March 31, 2010.
Additional Online Resources
Influenza Resource List - "Protect yourself and those around you – get the seasonal flu vaccine" resources available online. Download free, reliable information to support and strengthen your individual facility's flu immunization programs. Take the opportunity now to vaccinate your patients and your facility staff.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Questions and Answers: 2009 H1N1 and Seasonal Flu and African American Communities - The "2009 H1N1 and Seasonal Flu and African American Communities Questions and Answers Document" summarizes current knowledge about the impact of both the 2009 H1N1 and seasonal influenza virus' on African Americans. It outlines possible strategies for improving health and increasing vaccine coverage and includes descriptions of some of the barriers affecting African American communities.
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