COVID-19 FAQs

In these unprecedented times of change and uncertainty, we may find ourselves stepping outside of our daily routines. Consider using a simple decision-making process — is what is requested ethical? Do I have the competency to do this work? Our regulatory standards are designed to provide a framework for decision-making in various situations. By using professional judgment, working in collaboration with other healthcare workers serving the best interests of patients (Standard 3.1: Collaboration/Professional Relationships, indicator a) and practicing within the limits of your competence (Standard 2.2: Professional Competence, indicator c) you may continue to provide care to Albertans.

Working within the quickly evolving demands of our healthcare system can be challenging and it is important for regulated members to be mindful of and practice in accordance with any direction from the Chief Medical Officer of Health and emerging policies and procedures, including those pertaining to COVID-19 management, set by their employer.

All regulated healthcare professionals may be asked to work in an area that they are less familiar with from time to time. Temporary re-deployment is a legitimate employer practice to ensure they can meet the needs of the public they serve every day. You and your employer have an accountability to ensure patients are receiving safe and competent care.

MRTs and ENPs are responsible and accountable for the care they provide and must practice to their level of competence. Although there are elements of professional knowledge and entry-level competencies that cross a broad spectrum of patient groups and areas of practice, they may only be able to do part of a procedure in the setting to which they may be re-deployed.

College registrants need to assess and communicate the procedures that they can do competently. The discussion with their manager could include asking for an orientation to the new practice setting, asking questions to understand the expectations of them in this situation, and asking for an identified experienced staff member to be a buddy to answer questions when needed.

Healthcare professionals, including MRTs and ENPs, play a significant role in containing the spread of COVID-19. It is vital that MRTs and ENPs adhere to Infection Prevention and Control guidelines.

Alberta Health Services has effective infection prevention and control measures in place for COVID-19. MRTs and ENPs are required to use appropriate infection prevention and control procedures in the course of providing diagnostic or therapeutic services (Standard 4.2: Safe Practice, indicator e, f).

MRTs and ENPs must:

• Use good hygiene practices, such as frequent hand-washing
• Utilize personal protective equipment (PPE) appropriately
• Adhere with AHS routine practices, including isolation procedures
• Clean and disinfect equipment and high touch areas as per routine practices

In this type of emergency, MRTs and ENPs are expected to act in the best interests of Albertans at all times within the boundaries of their knowledge and competence (Code of Ethics, Principle 2: Responsibility to the profession, indicator c). You are essential members of the healthcare team, and we thank you for your dedication to provide Albertans safe and competent care during these challenging times.

• Alberta Health Services | Infection Prevention & Control
• Alberta Health Services | Interim IPC Recommendations: COVID-19