Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
1. Define the target audiences for the Health Care Worker (HCW) promotional tools
2. Identify essential components of each HCW promotional tool
3. Identify at least 3 specific applications or uses for the HCW promotional tool



Background:
Since 2000, New York State public health law mandates long term care facilities (LTCFs) offer influenza and pneumococcal vaccine to all residents and employees. These facilities must document the receipt or refusal of immunization. Surveys and informal visits indicate that while LTCF residents are routinely vaccinated, the immunization of healthcare workers is extremely poor. LTCF infection control nurses indicate a lack of knowledge of the law or understanding of the LTCF's obligations. In response to this need, the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) Immunization Program developed informational packets with materials to educate administrative and infection control staff of LTCFs as well as the hospitals and private providers serving this population.


Setting:
LTCFs, hospitals and private provider practices


Population:
Administrators and ICNs of long term care facilities and hospitals and office managers, certified nurse practitioners and physicians in private provider practices


Project Description:
The NYSDOH Immunization Program developed 3 separate packets promoting the vaccination of HCWs. Each packet contains a CD ROM with materials for reprinting from CDC, IAC, APIC and NYSDOH, including sample standing orders for influenza and pneumococcal vaccine and sample resident/patient and employee vaccine refusal forms. Free samples of the NYSDOH HCW poster and an easel for display of the NYSDOH “flu flyer” are also provided. The LTCF packet includes a copy of the NYS public health law with statutory advisory for implementation.


Results/Lessons Learned:
A mass mailing to all NYS nursing homes and hospitals generated a positive reaction from nursing home and hospital recipients. The HCW promotional tool has become an integral component of the nursing home site visit throughout the state.