Nurses Need Advocates During Pandemic

Nurses always have been there for their patients, and the coronavirus pandemic is no exception. But we can’t give patients what they need if we’re not knowledgeable about what’s going on.

Leaders need to have answers for nurses

While dealing with staff directives and providing needed staffing and supplies, leaders also must help staff understand their new roles and responsibilities. They must ensure nurses have a workplace with all the resources they need, which also comply with safety measures.

Leaders need to keep staff informed and calm fears about the coronavirus pandemic by addressing questions promptly and assuring staff they’ll have everything they need to do their jobs.

Staff should understand inventory flow and supply chain; regular vs. surge utilization rates; and be assured that management is in communication with state and local public health partners on the issue and the steps needed to optimize the supply of other PPE for staff at the same time.

Staff needs to feel someone in command has their backs, and nurse leaders are the ones they will look to for assurances that they’ll be safe as they care for patients.