Physicians describe treating patients in crippled New Orleans hospitals
Patient Safety Monitor Alert
September 28, 2005
Physicians relied on experience and creativity to treat patients after Hurricane Katrina devastated hospitals. Without electricity, running water, or communications, physicians and nurses resorted to manually maintaining IV drips and other make-do tactics, according to an essay in the New York Times.The crisis in New Orleans highlighted the increasing reliance on technology in the healthcare industry. In the powerless hospitals, more than radiological exams and MRIs were lost. Simple procedures like starting an IV drip became labor-intensive events, requiring nurses to literally use eye droppers to administer the medications.
Without the ability to order technical tests and back-ups, physicians had to rely on their expertise and experience when assessing patient needs. The task was made more difficult by the deteriorating condition of the hospitals and the rising frustration and anger of patients and families trapped in the facility.
To read the complete essay, click here.
