Emergency Preparedness

Kern Medical Emergency Communication Strategies

Many agencies and individuals have a stake in the outcome of the emergency. A well- ordered communications plan can help everyone participate to the best of their abilities. 1. How staff will be notified that emergency response procedures have been initiated: Upon activation of the EOP, the Incident Commander, or designee, may communicate with HCWs in the following ways: • Overhead page (PBX) • Telephone and cellular phone • House wide email • Mass notification system (CaHAN) • Verbally through the chain of command • Runners The specific communication method used will depend upon the scope and duration of the incident, the impact on communication methods, and incident management communication requirements. Redundant communication systems/methods may be required. A code system is in effect that describes types of disasters, such as Code Red for Fire, Code Gray for Security assistance, and Code Triage for disaster. New hire and ongoing orientation programs teach or reorient healthcare workers to the types of codes and the response required for each code. When emergency response procedures have been initiated, healthcare workers will be notified by PBX that emergency response procedures have been activated as follows: Code Triage (Internal or External) All staff please return to your department The Incident Commander or his/her designee has the authority to terminate emergency response procedures. Upon termination of the event, the Hospital Incident Commander

will instruct PBX or other venue to notify HCWs: Code Triage (Internal or External) is now clear