Conducting an Effective Point of Care Risk Assessment During COVID-19

As nurses work through the global pandemic and the unknowns surrounding this novel coronavirus, conducting a point of care risk assessment (PCRA) is arguably one of the most important steps members can take to protect themselves, their patients and their colleagues.

BCNU has developed this PCRA breakdown helping to illustrate what an effective PCRA entails and how it is a critically important tool to help understand and control your risk at work. From the threat of violence to exposure to pathogens, a PCRA may indicate that care should be delayed or that appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) be worn.

Despite following this assessment practice using employer-provided PCRA templates, in the event PPE is deemed appropriate for use, 72 per cent of members report that their employers have restricted access to PPE. Over a third admitted they feel pressured to not use PPE due to supply issues.

These alarming statistics highlight the ongoing challenges that exist in BC's health care system when it comes to nurses' unfettered access to appropriate PPE. BCNU is urging members to remain vigilant that PPE is readily available to them, that it isn't 'stored away' or 'locked up,' and that they have immediate access to it when assessing patients suspected of having COVID-19.

BCNU firmly believes that employers must ensure risks are reduced to the lowest level practicable through all forms of safety controls. It is our position that health employers must give nurses sufficient access to PPE and adequate time to conduct and understand the PCRA process. Should you have issues with either of these points, we ask that you report this both to your manager/supervisor and directly to BCNU. We will continue to work to advocate for the safety of nurses across BC.