Discuss a problem or issue in your clinical setting that you have encountered since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic that would be appropriate for  an evidence based project(EBP) project and formulate a researchable question using the PICOT format. I work in the Emergency ROOm Initial post no less than 250 words. 1 page only

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on healthcare systems worldwide, including emergency rooms (ERs). As a healthcare professional working in the ER, I have encountered several issues since the outbreak that are worthy of investigation through an evidence-based project (EBP). One such problem is the increased demand for personal protective equipment (PPE) and its potential impact on staff safety and patient care. This issue is crucial to address because it can greatly affect the well-being of both healthcare providers and patients.

Background

The COVID-19 virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, making healthcare workers in the ER particularly vulnerable due to the close contact they have with patients. Consequently, the use of PPE, including gloves, masks, gowns, and face shields, has become essential in protecting healthcare professionals from contracting and spreading the virus. However, the increased demand for PPE during the pandemic has strained the supply chain, leading to shortages in many healthcare facilities.

This scarcity of PPE presents several challenges. First, inadequate availability of PPE increases the risk of healthcare workers contracting COVID-19, potentially leading to workforce shortages and hindered patient care. Second, the use of suboptimal or insufficient PPE may compromise its protective effect, further endangering both healthcare providers and patients. Third, the psychological impact of working without adequate protection can contribute to stress and burnout among healthcare workers, negatively impacting their well-being and job performance.

Research Question

To address this issue, an evidence-based research project can be formulated using the PICOT format:

Population: Healthcare professionals working in the ER during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Intervention: Implementation of strategies to optimize the use and supply of PPE.
Comparison: Current standard practices for PPE use in the ER.
Outcome: Improved staff safety, reduced transmission of COVID-19, and enhanced patient care.
Timeframe: Within the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Research Question: In healthcare professionals working in the ER during the COVID-19 pandemic, how does the implementation of strategies to optimize the use and supply of PPE compared to current standard practices impact staff safety, transmission of COVID-19, and patient care?

Rationale

This research question is important because it aims to identify strategies that can help alleviate the challenges associated with the increased demand and limited supply of PPE in the ER. By optimizing the use and supply of PPE, the safety of healthcare workers can be enhanced, reducing the risk of contracting COVID-19. It will also contribute to reducing transmission rates within the ER and potentially in the wider community. Additionally, this research can help identify best practices that promote effective use of PPE without compromising patient care and staff well-being.

Methodology

To address the research question, a mixed-methods approach can be utilized. Initially, a systematic review of existing literature can be conducted to identify current strategies and best practices for optimizing the use and supply of PPE in healthcare settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. This review will provide a comprehensive understanding of the current evidence in this area.

Following the systematic review, qualitative interviews can be conducted with healthcare professionals working in the ER to explore their experiences, challenges, and suggestions for improving PPE usage and supply. These interviews will provide valuable insights into the practical implementation of strategies and the impact on staff safety and patient care.

Quantitative data can also be collected by analyzing hospital records to compare infection rates among healthcare workers and patients between periods with standard PPE practices and periods with implemented optimized strategies. This data will enable the assessment of the impact on staff safety, transmission rates, and patient outcomes.

Conclusion

The issue of the increased demand for PPE and its potential impact on staff safety and patient care is a pressing problem in the ER since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. By formulating a researchable question using the PICOT format, an evidence-based research project can be conducted to explore strategies that can optimize PPE use and supply. The findings from this research can help improve staff safety, reduce transmission of COVID-19 in the ER, and enhance patient care during the ongoing pandemic.