Assess

Determine which immunizations residents and staff have received. Identify any vaccines needed. Automated systems such as reminder/recall or prompt systems are often used. Introduce value of IIS here.

Assessment is the first step in ensuring that residents and patients are up-to-date on the vaccines they need for protection against serious vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccination needs change over time based on many factors, including age, health conditions and updates in recommendations.

Features of a strong assessment program include:

  • Stay informed on the latest recommendations for adult immunizations

  • Ensure intake personnel can make recommendations for what is due, and is supportive of vaccines

  • Determine when vaccines will be offered – as residents are admitted, in clinics, or both

  • Use renewable consent for multiple vaccines on admission

  • Implement standing orders or protocols to routinely check for status

  • Use a reminder-recall system to alert for vaccine needs

Immunize.org

Using Standing Orders for Administering Vaccines: What You Should Know

Describes elements of a standing order including definitions, what elements to include, who can recommend them, and how often they should be renewed.

Immunize.org

Steps to Implementing Standing Orders for Immunization in Your Practice Setting

Step-by-step instructions for setting up and using standing orders in a practice.

Additional Resources

PALTmed – Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medical Association

This admission consent form for common vaccines in long-term care is a template that can and should be modified for individual facility needs.