Posted Mar 3, 2020
According to the WA State Department of Health (as of March 2, 12:30pm), we currently have 18 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Washington state with 6 deaths (14 in King County including 5 deaths, as well as 4 cases and 1 death in Snohomish County). As of today, our members at Sacred Heart Medical Center, Evergreen Hospital, Overlake Medical Center, and Virginia Mason are caring for patients who have tested positive for COVID-19. The situation is very fluid, and we expect that many of our hospitals will be impacted in the days and weeks to come. A team from CDC is here in Seattle working with Public Health. King County Executive Dow Constantine has signed a declaration of emergency, as has Governor Jay Inslee.
Do you feel prepared to provide care for a patient with known or suspected COVID-19?
Please take 5 minutes and respond to this COVID-19 readiness survey. We need to hear from you in order to address your questions and concerns and continue our advocacy.
Notify WSNA if you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19 in your workplace
WSNA response
Washington State Nurses Association (WSNA) is working closely with local and state public health officials. Our primary concern is the safety and protection of our nurses and the patients we serve. Registered nurses and other providers are on the frontline of our health care system and will be the first responders as COVID-19 moves through our community. It is imperative that we make sure protocols, protections, and rapid communication with caregivers who are exposed are in place. WSNA has assembled a staff leadership team to coordinate the union’s response to this issue, to inform our members, and demand action from hospital management to protect our nurse members.
WSNA demands immediate transparency and accountability from hospital administration
WSNA intends to hold the hospital administration accountable to the safety and welfare of our members. We are currently communicating with administration at all of the WSNA represented facilities regarding our members who are exposed and may be exposed to ensure the appropriate personal protective equipment and appropriate precautions are available to all nurses. We will continue to communicate with you on developments.
Have you been exposed to patients who has tested positive to COVID-19?
Please take 5 minutes and respond to this COVID-19 readiness survey. We need to hear from you in order to address your questions and concerns and continue our advocacy
Joint statement with WA State Medical Association & Academy of Pediatricians
“Nurses and physicians are on the frontline of our health care system and will be the first responders as COVID-19 moves through our community. It is imperative that we ensure protocols, protections, and rapid communication with caregivers who are exposed are in place,” said Vehrs. “And we join public health in urging our communities to frequently wash hands, to cover coughs and sneezes, and to stay home when sick.”
Read the full statement
24x7 Department of Health Hotline
If you have questions about how the virus is spread or what to do if you have symptoms: 1−800−525−0127 and press #.
What are the symptoms and what should I do if I believe I have been exposed COVID-19?
Where can I find more information about COVID-19?
Personal and family preparedness
While we should expect to see the number of local cases of Coronavirus increase over the coming week(s), Public Health’s advice on how to protect ourselves remains the same:
Finally, remember that stigma does not prevent illness and the risk of novel coronavirus is not connected with race, ethnicity or nationality. We should all do our part to keep informed and not make assumptions, discriminate or spread incorrect information.
Please contact your WSNA Nurse Representative with any questions or concerns