Oral

Since the events of September 11, 2001, multiple potential hazards have become critical public health concerns. Intentional food contamination by terrorists or disgruntled local individuals is one such hazard. Global restaurant preparedness must be enforced to preempt malicious or terrorist contamination of food. During hurricanes, floodwaters are foes to human existence and access to safe water consumption thereby requiring diligent assessment and monitoring of water safety to maintain a healthy environment. The appropriate use of competent public health personnel in the face of disasters and with recovery and disease prevention efforts is critical to effective community health care management. This session will present effective strategies to address these issues.

Session Objectives: 1. Identify a targeted food defense education strategy for maximum impact, by tailoring educational content to need, with a focus on practices rather than concepts. 2. Describe the clinical scope of practice of a paramedic or critical care paramedic, and the potential in hospital role these providers may hold during a disaster, pandemic or public health emergency. 3. Discuss effective water safety preparedness to include community, political, and media support.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)