Preparing a Hospital for Ebola Virus Disease: a Review of Lessons Learned

The 2014 Ebola epidemic provided unique insight into how modern hospitals must prepare to handle a disease associated with high transmissibility and mortality. Given the cost and resources required for hospital preparedness, a tiered approach was taken with US hospitals to facilitate a coordinated response. Effective patient screening at points of entry should be prioritized by all hospitals during an Ebola epidemic. Emphasis should be placed on healthcare worker training in safety protocols (particularly doffing personal protective equipment) and preparing to manage significant volumes of highly infectious waste. Designating an appropriate treatment area, developing a laboratory testing approach, and coordinating a proactive communication strategy are critical elements. Preparing a hospital to care for an ebola virus disease (EVD) patient is a complex effort with multiple logistical challenges and an iterative process that requires flexibility and ingenuity to respond to a dynamic environment. Despite the many challenges, hospital preparedness for Ebola will better prepare us for the next highly communicable disease threat.