Hurricane Harvey, how to help?

[Fletch.]

I need advice for preparing for Disaster Relief. I am an ICU nurse from Utah who just put in his application with the Red Cross, to help with the imminent need in Texas.

I need to know how best to:

-find an organization that will accept my help

-what should I bring (seems power and resources are going to be

scarce)

-what concerns should I have about safety (e.g. other people)

I would love to hear from somebody: who has helped in previous disasters, especially Hurricane Katrina; survivalists; military; etc.

-Fletcher, RN, BSN, CCRN-CMC

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

(Lived through several disasters and at one point was a disaster training coordinator. I have family in TX)

If you want to use clinical nursing skills rather than what the Red Cross needs there is a Harvey standby team

National Nurses United | RNRN Standby Form

other organizations:

National VOAD

Unless you have already been trained, background checked and credentialed don't expect to be sent out for a few weeks

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Texas nicu transport team activated pre-Harvey evacuates neonates before storm hits: Special cargo: Lubbock NICU nurses help out during hurricane rescue efforts | Lubbock Online | Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

(All part of OEM disaster planning. A lot was learned from Katrina, Sandy and other storms in the north and south east)

[jusjfow]

I'm calling a company today... appears they are an agency asking for a 1 week commitment with a 5 shift assignment (do not have to work consecutively).

Hope to meet you if you make there! -Jjf

[Med Surg RN, BSN, RN]

Hi jusjfow, were you able to get in touch with the company? Am also interested in assisting with Hurricane Harvey efforts but not sure which travel agency to go with...

[JustBeachyNurse, LPN]

Hi jusjfow, were you able to get in touch with the company? Am also interested in assisting with Hurricane Harvey efforts but not sure which travel agency to go with...

Most recent reports minimal staffing nursing is needed due to lack of access. Some have a registry of nurses. Note there are less scrupulous staffing agencies that try and profit off disaster claiming to have staff ready to go for devastated facilities charging premium rates like the strike staffing agencies. Do your due dilligence . If you are truly interested in travel nursing check out the travel nursing forum

[Med Surg RN, BSN, RN]

JustBeachyNurse, thank you for your suggestion. That is an excellent point!

[sallyrnrrt, ADN, RN]

Red Cross: Health & Mental Health Volunteers Needed | American Red Cross

The Cajun Navy from Louisiana. We're awesome, and appreciated lifesavers.......