In September of 2021, Stephens Memorial Hospital in Norway, Maine was forced to completely evacuate all patients and staff due to a Code Red emergency. This presentation will describe the incident and the actions taken by staff. It will also cover the after action reporting and lessons learned by both hospital staff and local first responders and fire departments. The presentation will review leadership's use of the HICS model, communication and site security issues experienced, as well as logistical problems faced with getting 21 patients transferred to other hospitals, and setting up a temporary triage/ED site with radiology availability. Summary discusses the areas identified for improvement, collaboration established with local EMS providers, Fire departments, and County EMA. Also covered are applicable Life Safety, Regulatory, and risk management components.
Learning Objectives:
Activate and implement HICS system in Code Red emergencies
Provide staff with evacuation devices and plans for patients and team members
Develop collaborative relationships with local Fire and EMS resources
Ensure Life Safety Code measures are in place during in-house construction through the ILSM and ICRA processes
Understand potential risk management issues related to evidence preservation and insurance liability