Doubling Intensive Care Unit Capacity by Surging Onto Medical-Surgical Units During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: The ability of an organization to accommodate a large influx of patients during a prolonged period is dependent on surge capacity. The aim of this article is to describe the surge experience with space, supplies, and staff training in response to COVID-19 and provide guidance to other organizations.

Background: A hospital's response to a large-scale event is greatly impacted by the ability to surge and, depending on the type of threat, to maintain a sustained response. To identify surge capacity, an organization must first consider the type of event to appropriately plan resources.

Preparation process: An epidemic surge drill, conducted in 2012, served as a guide in planning for the COVID-19 pandemic. The principles of crisis standards of care and a hospital incident command structure were used to clearly define roles, open lines of communication, and inform our surge plan. Preparation began by collaborating with multidisciplinary groups to acquire the most appropriate space, as well as adequate supplies, and identify and train staff.

Implementation: Teams were formed to identify the necessary resources to expand the intensive care unit (ICU) environment quickly and efficiently. Educational training was developed for redeployed staff.

Outcomes: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center experienced the largest surge of ICU patients within a hospital system in the state of Massachusetts. The ICU capacity was expanded by 93% from 77 to 149 beds, and the surge was maintained for approximately 9 weeks. Shadowing experiences before the actual surge were extremely valuable.

Conclusions: Planning for the surge of critically ill patients required a thoughtful, collaborative approach. Ongoing staff support and communication from nursing leadership were necessary to ensure safe, effective care for critically ill patients in a new and dynamic environment.