Hospital Employee Health – December 1, 2022

Occupational Monkeypox in Healthcare Workers

Although the overall risk of transmission is low, at least two healthcare workers have been occupationally infected with monkeypox virus (MPXV) in the United States. In an unusual case, two caregivers were infected by environmental fomites in the home of a patient in Brazil. Although rare, healthcare workers have been infected in previous outbreaks, and there likely are a fair number of unreported cases, given the stigma associated with MPXV.

Reassuring Monkeypox Findings from Colorado

Although vigilance with infection control is critical, Colorado public health investigators concluded the risk of healthcare workers acquiring occupational monkeypox is “very low.” They meticulously identified and followed more than 300 medical staff that cared for patients who were later diagnosed with monkeypox.

Endemic Monkeypox, Fear of U.S. Animal Reservoir

The United States continues to report the most cases of monkeypox of any country in world, with 27,884 cases and six deaths as of Oct. 21. However, the outbreak is receding compared to earlier spikes in cases, as that case count represents only a small increase over the 26,049 reported Sept. 30. In a disturbing scenario, the CDC raised the possibility monkeypox could establish an animal reservoir in the United States.

Using ‘Psychological Safety’ to Improve Education

Creating psychological safety in medical education opens up learners to the experience, making it more likely they will ask questions and actively participate. A psychologically safe educational environment means learners know they will not be punished or humiliated for speaking up with ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes.

Vaccine Second Shot, Boosters Kick in Protective Effect

A study of healthcare and other frontline workers with COVID-19 showed a history of two or three mRNA vaccine doses significantly reduced the severity of illness. Workers who received two or three doses of vaccine reported less fever and chills, less need for medical care, and lower viral load than in the non-vaccinated cohort.

Ethical Approaches to Address Nursing Workloads, Staffing Shortages

Ethicists can perform an invaluable role by working closely with senior management and medical staff leaders to develop collaborative initiatives to acknowledge the problem’s magnitude and engage nursing representatives in developing creative solutions.