*TS: –  5 Sure Fire Methods: Managing Staff Vaccination: Programs (IC.02.04.01)[®] [REF: IC, MDx, PI, RNx, StEd] The Source, January 2014, Vol 12, #1, Pg 2  #JCs1401_B3

According to the CDC, at least 25 states are reporting widespread flu this year with H1N1 being the primary strain.  As we approach the expected peak for the season this month or next, it is important for staff (including LIPs) to know that if they are not immunized, they pose a serious risk to patient safety.  They should also know that “Unvaccinated individuals who become infected are contagious before they are symptomatic”.  Given this and the fact that immunization is the most effective form of prevention for influenza, it makes good sense that (cost-effective) efforts should be made to achieve the highest possible vaccination rates.  Although TJC does not mandate vaccination, IC.02.04.01 does require offering it.  This article provides suggestions for improving vaccination rates to include:

• Consider de-centralized approaches that might involve offering the vaccination on units and/or during already established staff gatherings/meetings
• Continue education (e.g., injections do not use live vaccine anymore) and myth busting
• Consider also offering the immunizations in nasal spray form
• Obtain leadership support (and role modeling)

Tip: Analyze your causes of refusal from past years and use a performance/robust process improvement approach to improve your rates by at least 10% each year. Be motivated by the fact that there are organizations achieving 99% rates.
See also: Our review of TJC Gives Shot in the Arm to Health Care Personnel Influenza Vaccination Rates and R3 Report on Influenza Vaccination (released 5/30/12)