Hospital Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness Checklist

17 items · Health · Hard difficulty · 2 hours

Practical steps for hospitals to prepare for epidemics and pandemics.

• Set up early warning surveillance system

  Define data sources, reporting channels, and rapid alert triggers.

• Define alert triggers and escalation levels

  Specify case counts or lab signals that trigger higher response levels.

• Train staff on surveillance reporting procedures

  Teach frontline staff how and when to report suspected cases quickly.

• Assign incident command and decision-making roles

  Name leaders for clinical, logistics, operations, and communications.

• Ensure isolation and cohorting capacity

  Identify rooms, convert wards, and check negative-pressure options.

• Stockpile PPE and essential medical supplies

  Keep adequate masks, gowns, gloves, meds, and airway supplies for surges.

• Maintain PPE inventory log and rotate stock

  Track quantities and expiry dates; rotate supplies to avoid waste.

• Conduct PPE fit-testing and donning/doffing training

  Schedule regular fit-testing and hands-on practice for all clinical staff.

• Secure supply chain agreements with vendors

  Set backup suppliers, delivery priorities, and emergency ordering terms.

• Implement triage and surge capacity protocols

  Define patient flow, admission criteria, and alternate care areas.

• Set up staff rostering and cross-train clinicians

  Create surge rosters and train staff to cover essential roles.

• Prepare mass casualty and mortuary management plans

  Plan overflow care, safe body handling, and family notification steps.

• Establish clear internal and external communication plans

  Pre-write key messages, assign spokespeople, and set family update routines.

• Run regular tabletop and full-scale drills

  Test procedures with realistic scenarios and revise plans after each drill.

• Coordinate with public health and community partners

  Share surveillance data, align response actions, and support community needs.

• Secure IT systems and data backup for incident management

  Protect patient data, ensure telehealth capacity, and backup key systems.

• Provide staff wellness and mental health support

  Offer counseling, rest areas, and policies to limit burnout during surges.

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