Mohammad Albataineh
Jordan University of Science & Technology,Jordan
Title: Adoption of Technology, Experience and Creativity in Prevention & Control of MERS-CoV Outbreak in Al Hofuf, Saudi Arabia
Biography
Biography: Mohammad Albataineh
Abstract
The emerging MERS-CoV was first identified in 2012; the high mortality rate 40.5% provoked the cooperation between Saudi Ministry of Health (MOH), WHO & CDC to set a guideline to be implemented through Saudi Arabia healthcare system in 2014. The compliance with the newly set guideline to manage MERS-CoV cases was associated with many challenges.
A proactive approach was taken by Al Ahsa Hospital to respond to the current situation in the country. The main strategy was to ensure strict adherence to MOH guideline by converting essential components of the guideline using HIS for a better understanding and smooth implementation of the guideline.
The focused part was on the early detection of suspected cases & awareness of healthcare professionals. Utilizing an electronic tool to identify suspected MERS-CoV cases and application of mandatory electronic competency exam facilitate a better follow up for both patient & healthcare workers after awareness audio tools.
Technology has been adopted by converting the visual triage manual checklist to electronic checklist with audible and visual alert targeting healthcare workers.
A professional awareness video has been initiated in how to trace the suspected cases of MERS-CoV which distributed through the website to be accessible to all regional hospitals and followed by electronic MERS-CoV competency exam has been initiated in order to maintain and improve the staff awareness along with internal & external MERS-CoV drill.
The interventions showed marked improvement in detection of suspected cases and improvement in healthcare workers knowledge and practice.