Austin, Texas, area nurses and physicians who serve in the National Guard are being called to help with Hurricane Harvey relief efforts, according to an article in the Austin-American Statesman.
Judith Chedville, an advance practice nurse with Austin Regional Clinic, was scheduled to arrive in Dallas Monday night to meet unit 949 BSB Charlie Company, which has members throughout the state who are trained to handle mass casualties, according to the article.
Chedville is one of 12,000 members of the Texas Army and Air National Guard who were mobilized Aug. 28. Active duty units also are on standby to deal with the flooding and continuing rain in the affected area, according to Military.com.
“It is imperative that we do everything possible to protect the lives and safety of people across the state of Texas as we continue to face the aftermath of this storm,” Gov. Greg Abbott, R-Texas said in the Military.com article.
About 900 Texas Guard members were mobilized before Harvey hit the Gulf Coast Friday and Abbott increased the number to 3,000 on Sunday.
Although, she is not a member of the military, critical care nurse Allie Pillow of Nashville also is making her way to Texas to lend a hand, along with a few other local nurses.
“It’s all hands on deck, all the time,” Pillow said, according to a WKRN.com article. “People don’t ask questions. You just do whatever you need to do.”
In the article, Pillow expressed concern for her fellow nurses in Texas. “These ER nurses that are stuck down there, they have lost everything,” said Pillow. “But they don’t know the actual devastation because they’re not able to leave the hospital.”
These ER nurses that are stuck down there, they have lost everything. But they don’t know the actual devastation because they’re not able to leave the hospital.”
Pillow will fly to Dallas where she will board a bus to Houston, followed by a boat ride to a Houston hospital. “It’s the nature of what I feel like of our profession is, we want to help others,” Pillow said in the article.
Pillow is aware she may not be required to provide “normal emergency care” when she arrives. “… it’s things like cholera, it’s things like tetanus,” said Pillow. “There’s so many things that are gonna be coming up.”
While many hospitals and health systems made significant investments in disaster preparations and fortifying their facilities in the post-Tropical Storm Allison and post-Katrina era, a hurricane and its aftermath still can wreak havoc, no matter how prepared a hospital is. “We’ve made significant investments,” Umair Shah, MD, MPH, executive director of Harris County’s public health department,” said according to an Aug. 28 New York Times article. “The challenge is until it unfolds there’s so many moving pieces and it’s never the same as the situations you’ve previously encountered.”
According to the article, water rose in the basement of Ben Taub Hospital, which had spent billions of dollars on flood protections. Officials announced an evacuation on Aug. 27, but could not begin evacuations because the hospital was surrounded by water and rescuers could not reach its 350 patients. On Monday afternoon, a call went out on local radio for a vendor to provide food for the hospital, according to the article.
As of Monday afternoon, 10 to 15 other hospitals and various nursing homes, some in rural communities, also have evacuated or begun evacuating since the storm made landfall.
We can be dry and open, but if you can’t deliver patients to the medical center, that’s our biggest concern.”
Other hospitals, while still able to operate, were cut off by floodwater from patients trying to reach them. Hospital staff members had trouble getting to work as well, according to the New York Times article.
In parts of the state, Harvey knocked out utilities, forcing hospitals to rely on backup systems.
Texas Medical Center in Houston’s post-Allison preparations at most of its hospitals appeared to have proven beneficial during Hurricane Harvey, as submarine doors protected foundations and kept the power on.
With ambulance routes flooded, however, potential patients had difficulty reaching the complex. “I’ve never heard so few sirens as I have in the last few days, which is upsetting,” William McKeon, Texas Medical Center’s president and chief executive, said in the New York Times article. “We can be dry and open, but if you can’t deliver patients to the medical center, that’s our biggest concern.”
Courses Related to ‘Disaster Preparedness’
CE681: When Disasters Strike
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This module features an overview of disaster management in EDs, including the definition of the four stages of disaster management and the appropriate triage of patients. It also describes the unique considerations of disasters that involve a chemical, radiological, or biological agent. Preparation of ED personnel, such as EMTs and RNs, will enable them to respond to disasters and the patient populations affected by them more effectively.
CE409-60: RNs Shelter Victims of Disaster
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Never in the history of the U.S. has disaster preparation and response been as vital as it is today. Disasters are frequently classified as manmade or from natural causes. In addition to the threat of manmade disasters — such as terrorist attacks — and natural disasters — such as fires, floods and earthquakes — the focus of disaster preparation has grown to include emerging infectious diseases, such as severe acute respiratory syndrome and avian influenza. This module will help nurses better understand the role of Red Cross nurses during major disasters and help nurses decide whether DHS nursing may be where they can best contribute their time and talents to help their fellow citizens.
WEB259: Nursing Leadership and Emergency Preparedness
(1 contact hr)
Ever run a code? Been called by a neighbor in an emergency? Asked to help in a public emergency because you are a nurse? There is a reason for that! Nurses are well recognized for their emergency response and ability to lead teams in disaster preparedness. Learn about the state of disaster preparedness in healthcare and the trend to mobilize nurse leaders in this specialty area.
I’m an RN in Dallas laid off on Wednesday. How can I help and who do I need to contact ?
I’m RN with Telemetry Med-Surg I can help during my off days
For nurses interested in being part of the Hurricane Harvey Expedited Response, HealthTrust WorkForce Solutions Staffing in Dallas is busing nurses to Houston by the bus-load. They own the hospital staffing accounts in Houston. If interested please contact Shannon Sharp, Director of Recruitment, at 817-492-1610 or 972-443-5504.
I am an LPN I. State of PA and a United States Veteren I am willing to help I have a strong clinical skill set my specialty is Pediatric Trach/Vent and I also have geriatric experience. I am looking for a group to join so that I can help! Please anyone let me know if I can help jennifertgsmith@me.com
Shannon. I am an Lpn from florida that is ready and willing to help.
570 220 4480. Deber1956@ gmail. Com
ER, RN from CO. I can help
leighann.stonefield@yahoo.com
I’m a LPN FROM MO that is free and can help
Are u looking for cnas also
I can help. Please contact me MandyLew29@gmail.com
I am an RN and currently working in ICU from CA. Call me or text me and email me if you still need some help. I have been contacted by supplement Health care that they need some help. Thanks
I am interested in FNP
Where do I apply to go help
I am an cna and live like 30 mins from houston if i can help please be free to contact me at 281-202-2018 or email me at Servandochapa69@gmail.com
How can I get involved with helping? I am a labor and delivery RN with 15+ years experience. I have a coworker friend who suggested we come help out. Who do I contact?
Interested in helping over the next few weeks. Contact me immediately if I can help. Am a LVN in Texas
not much information about the need in TX for nurses, I am interested in going but there isnt enough info for me to go on
How do i help. I’m an RN with Er/PACU exp. I’m ready!
Is there a need for additional nurses in Texas. I am an OR nurse and I would be willing to help.
Was checking to see if there was a need for LPN in Houston
How can nurses from other states volunteer to help?
Retired psychiatric RN, 62YO, female.
Please add quick links to SoMe (fb, t & LI) so this info can be more easily disseminated! Looked at nurse.com t feed & no posted tweet of this story? 🙁
I am an RN in Arkansas who would like to help in Houston where I have family. med -surg, clinic also. Good skills
Hello I am an LPN certified in state of Wa would like to volunteer a few weeks how do we sign up fight where to stay? Can’t find any other numbers. Thank you Joyce Marks
Are nurses needed to help take care of ppl?
Please contact me…I am an RN…have passed my NCLEX. I am available to assist.
I am from Cardston, Alberta , Canada ??
I have experience in acute care & 23 years in public health.
I am a LPN, can I help?
I want to help. I’m an ER nurse currently not working. I have my acls,pals certification. Also a license in tenn, florida and illinois.
Thanks for everyone’s comments and willingness to help! Here’s how you can make a difference for your fellow nurses.
The Texas Nurses Foundation (Texas Nurses Association) is accepting contributions to help the nurses affected by Hurricane Harvey. All money collected will be distributed directly to nurses living in any one of the Texas counties declared disaster areas. The amount of money distributed to each nurse requesting assistance will be determined by the amount of money collected ending November 30, 2017. Any funds remaining in the fund by March 31, 2018 will be donated to the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund established by the city of Houston.
For more information, visit https://texasnurses.site-ym.com/donations/fund.asp?id=16108
I am an RN from Jacksonville Florida Can I help? 904 517 0447
https://mrc.hhs.gov/volunteerFldr/AboutVolunteering
Also contact the Red Cross
Amazing to see Nurse come together & Unite!!
I am new LPN graduate living in Connecticut, I would like to help.
I’m a 15 yr nurse mental health my speciaty…i filled put the application..corey check came back and sent to the RED CROSS…i understand…10 days 10 hr days…i need to let my work know when I’m leaving…please ..email me colleenlelievre@comcast.net….phone 9786217716 thanku and would love to help❤
Lina Wilches (954) 706 7226
10 years NICU experience
Willing to work if needed
LPN from Florida would love to come in help please contact information 3215913479
http://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/lp/hurricane-harvey-health-professionals
I am a 30 year LVN and lived in the Rockport area 6 years ago. Please what can I do to help.
I am free to travel where ever needed.
Delois
I am a Registered Nurse in Tennnessee. How can I get signed up to help in Texas?
I’m an lpn in washington, with 10 years experience.
My husband and I are both mental health nurses, him with 20 years experience and me with 10 years. We are willing and able to come to Houston to help. We are registered nurses in California and can help with shots, bandages, wounds, etc. Please contact us 817-718-5249.
They need social workers & nurses at the convention center…Mayor says…show up you don’t have to register.
http://www.grbhouston.com/george-r-brown-emergency-center/
I am a PACU/PREOP nurse. Do you need help with care of patients? I also do MOTHER/BABY.
Ssheppard8877@gmail.com
Nurse for 45 years worked all fields except ICU licensed in Kentucky and Florida! ER OR RNFA L&D antepartum Medsurg Management! 502 299 4302 Yvonne M Rusch RN
I have 38 years of experience as an RN in all areas of nursing from newborns to elderly. I would be willing to come and help if there is a shortage and I’m sure there is. Who can I contact
Would LOVE to help in any capacity. I am a Registered Nurse with 16 years of experience. Currently working in Hospice Care. Please call me Linda (551) 265-9394
I am an RN in florida and happy to help my home town. Please call 407 496 9804. I have experience in ER, rehab, med surg and long term care.
Critical care RN in DFW. Assisted with relief efforts with Haiti and Katrina. I want to help this time as well. Where could I be of assistance?
convention center http://www.grbhouston.com/george-r-brown-emergency-center/ & a group from Dallas is heading down.
For nurses interested in being part of the Hurricane Harvey Expedited Response, HealthTrust WorkForce Solutions Staffing in Dallas is busing nurses to Houston by the bus-load. They own the hospital staffing accounts in Houston. If interested please contact Shannon Sharp, Director of Recruitment, at 817-492-1610 or 972-443-5504.
I would love to help! 5 years experience med/surg, pcu, Wound care- ACLS.
I’m from Ontario Canada and have been a RN for 27 years. I work in a large tertiary care hospital currently and am willing to use my vacation time to come assist in a nursing capacity. I have critical care, med/surg and 15 years leadership experience.
Is there anyway I can help? I am a Critical Care Nurse in WI.
I am an rn and will fly there. Please contact me. 3079207000
Rebecca Richter RN 903-654-9282
25 years ICU experience, cardiovascular and medical
ACLS and CPR certified.
Wanting to work asap and live in Texas, very close
to Houston, Dallas,Fort Worth and San Antonia.Have my own
transportation and can leave immediately if needed.
to Dallas, Houston
For nurses interested in being part of the Hurricane Harvey Expedited Response, HealthTrust WorkForce Solutions Staffing in Dallas is busing nurses to Houston by the bus-load. They own the hospital staffing accounts in Houston. If interested please contact Shannon Sharp, Director of Recruitment, at 817-492-1610 or 972-443-5504.
Rebecca Richter RN 903-654-9282
25 years ICU experience, cardiovascular and medical
ACLS and CPR certified.
Wanting to work asap and live in Texas, very close
to Houston, Dallas,Fort Worth and San Antonia.Have my own
transportation and can leave immediately if needed.
I’m an LPN. I’m ready to help.
Rebecca Richter RN 903-654-9282
25 years ICU experience, cardiovascular and medical
ACLS and CPR certified.
Wanting to work asap.
I am a former flight nurse from the university of chicago. I would like to come and help
Next week from Tuesday until Friday. All I ask is my airfare covered and a place to stay. Thank you
Melissa Chesnut LPN
I’m available to Help in any way possible.
Melissachesnut15@gmail.com
I am a travel nurse completing an assignment on Sept 30th in Augusta GA MS unit I know that there will be a massive need for nurses especially after the real storm has ceased. For relief and to pick up shifts. My contact information is Robinpm00@gmail.com #803-546-0945 feel free to contact me if I can be of help
I am an LPN. Spec. in Medicine. I’ll be glad to go if you need me.
Not working right now, Rn CCRN, been er nurse for many years, I have been deployed after 2 hurricanes in fla. willing to help..
Will work
I am a CWON/ RN. I am in Southport NC. How can I help!!! Please contact me.
Adult ccu nurse able to help for 1to 2 weeksalso exp. In med surg and tele (PCU)
I’m a RN, BSN with experience in labor and delivery and pediatrics. I would like help. Please contact me at kskehoe29@yahoo.com
Hospice RN in Arkansas
Nevada RN willing to come help Houston!!! Reach out to me!
Tiffani Laird 7753043824
Jadacian Jones, LPN from AR with compact license. 2 years experience of travel nursing. Wanting to come help for next few weeks. (501) 9402889
Help available ASAP!!!
Can leave in less than 24 hours. Temporary license won’t be an issue. Please contact as I want to help. kemusselman@hotmail.com. Please contact. Louisiana also. Disaster zone licenses are quick to come by. Just want to help. Contact 24/7
I am a RN that is licensed in the state of Illinois with 2.5 years experience on telemetry/medical surgical, and a recent 3 month experience in ICU. Please inform me as to how I be of service.
RN FROM CT READY TO FLY OUT TO HELP PLEASE CONTACT ME 8607171562
My fellow nursing friends and I want to come help who do we register with we are both licensed LPN state of Missouri compact state.
5305690252
ICU Nurse. Willing to help
Interested in helping. I work sat sun Monday. I have 4 days to give per week
I work sat sun mon I have 4 free days per week to give please let me know
I am a trauma nurse from cleveland ohio can i help 2162805790
I am a LPN from upstate NY who would like to help in the Hurricane Harvey disaster.
Lvn in ltc since 1999 also hospice nurse. Please call 817 -542 – 7531 I live in Arlington Texas, where to go to sign up.
I feel the need to offer my help in any way I can during this overwhelming disaster, harm and disbelief these families are facing..along with displacement, separation,and sickness. Please feel free to contact me for assistance in any way,physical ,mental along with my skills in the medical field. God bless all of you. Sara G.sar Lucas Harrison
Licensed at the Alabama board of nursing
I’m an RN and would like to help. I live in Florida but am willing to go anywhere in Texas or Lousianna for 3-4 weeks to volunteer.
I’m an LPN in ohio and am available to help where & how I can. How do I apply?
I want to help. Can I get info
To everyone who has requested more information on how to help Hurricane Harvey victims, we heard you loud and clear! Thank you for your concern and willingness to help. Please read this article, which includes information on several organizations that might be of interest to you.
https://nurseblog.staging.wpengine.com/2017/08/31/heres-how-to-help-hurricane-harvey-victims/
Joanne Crosley RN from the Dallas Fort Worth area. I want to help. I need to help. I have been a nurse for 47 years and have done just about everything, from ICU, management, hospice, infusions, or drawing blood. I am not greatly physically able but I can do whatever I physically can do.
Ex Military Combat Medic and Texas LPN. I’m ready to go. Can be there within the day. 239-297-6653.
Hi
I am a RN for 25 years experienced in ER,Med. Surg. and Mental Health. Please send me information so I can join the team.
Thank you,
Paulette McGee
rnmcgee48@gmail.com
I’m a Hospice nurse 12 years experience Nursing home experience two years how can I help. Finish RN school but have not taken my boards yet. Lpn license active.
I am a RN in Amarillo TX and willing to come help the Hurricane Harvey victims. How can I get started
ICU, PICU & NICU RN, ACLS & PALS certified, available ASAP (314) 630-1136
Hi, I am a pediatric Nurse, I have a Bachelor’s and a Master’s, how can I help?? Also, I have a brother who lives in Houston. I would love to help!
I am a Nurse in Kansas and would like to help, where or who do I need to contact for information?
I’m an ER nurse… would like to help. Who do I call or contact?
I am a c.n.a and a medical assistant willing to help
I am currently working in ICU as an RN in CA. I have been contacted by Supplemental Health Care. Please email me if you still need some help. Thanks
I’m a certified CNA and MHT willing to leave and work with the relief efforts of hurricane Harvey from Louisiana.
3376788511 contact me 24 hrs text or phone Ebony M
I’m an LPN from Nashville Tn would love to be able to help my hometown area if their is a need for nurses please let me know I’m willing to help in anyway
I’m an LPN vlinical directorfrom Nashville Tn would love to be able to help my hometown area if their is a need for nurses please let me know I’m willing to help in anyway
Do you LPN help please let me know how to apply
…my friend and I can commit for 10 days… both RNs licensed in Ohio … will contact Red Cross!! God bless the USA God bless Texas??❤️???
Trauma/Teale/medsurg RN 7+ yrs experience. I live in AZ but am willing to come and help!
I’m mrs ward and I can be reached at 2543940766
MARGIE A TRAVEL OR NURSE WITH OVER 15 YEARS EXPERIENCE LIVING IN CA AND HAVE A WEEK OFF I CAN BE THERE ON THE NEXT FLIGHT 917-957-2669
I am an RN that can help on days off, medsurge experience.
Im cna i would love to come help just need more information i live in Wisconsin 9202026252
I’m a LPN from Mississippi. I’m staying in sulphur louisana right now. Is there anything I can do to help Harvey victims?
Long term care RN … I am willing to come if someone can tell me how and who to contact.
I am a correctional nurse in Jacksonville Fl I can help pls call at 9045028995
I am a CNA /PCT /Med Tech in Jacksonville Florida
I would like to help the Alzheimer’s and Dementia…
Possibly Hospice/ Assisted Living
As a male CNA
I know how much it helps to have a young strong man around.
All of my requirements are updated,
Please give me a call:
904-699-4847
I am a CNA /PCT /Med Tech in Jacksonville Florida
I would like to help the Alzheimer’s and Dementia patients…
(Baker Act patients)
Possibly Hospice/ Assisted Living
As a male CNA
I know how much it helps to have a young strong man around.
All of my requirements are updated,
Please give me a call:
904-699-4847
16 year CNA in PA willing to help!
I am a registered nurse of 13 yrs. I live and work in Honolulu Hawaii. I am available to donate a week of work in exchange for round trip airfare plus room and board. I will work for free in order to help the flood victims of hurricane Harvey.
Please let me know how to assist. I live in Long Beach. Ms.
RN with 11 years Tele/ICU experience. 3 years CM experience. Able and willing to go to Texas. Please contact 321-243-1706
20 years of labor and delivery and willing to come and help!
I am hospice Rn of 20 years. Is there a need for my profession as a temporary relief during the flooding?
I am a psych RN of 20 years and can come to help if you tell me who to contact.
New nurse wanting to help! Edwinaariel@yahoo.com
I am RN 22 years. Hemo and peritoneal dialysis experience. Currently in home health. I have med surg, perisurgical and stroke/spinal cord/head trauma rehab experience. If i can help im willing to ask for a leave of absence to come to texas. I have also worked 4 years peripartum. I have 6 years experience as a travel nurse and adapt well. I am currently doing 3p to 11p hh care in Memphis, i do not have a problem providing care to those in areas considered high risk.
I have been a hospice/palliative care nurse for the past last 11 years& am willing to come help with recovery effort in whatever way. How would contact the right person??
Seasoned (37 yrs acute care) ER and Periop nurse willing to volunteer in Tx, actually off work this week Sept 3-10. I am ready to go to Texas to help with Harvey disaster. Send information.
I’m a hospice RN in Hawaii and I really want to help. Please let me know how I can.
I am an ICU nurse from Nashville, TN. I am very interested in helping! Where can I apply?
I’m a NICN RN and I would like to come help to relieve other RNs
I’m a nationally certified medical assistant.
I want to help.
I have my CNA lisence and am trained with special needs, seizures, memory care, and high behavioral patients. I’ll also know basic construction tasks. And I can help in any way I am needed. Health related or not. Please contact me at AshleyMarie.thiel@gmail.com to tell me how I can help!
RN from Jacksonville FL. Willing to take a week off work to assist. 904-583-0683
Im a medical assistant been medical field for over 15yrs would love to help a few week
I am an lpn and willing to help who do I contact?
LPN I am a critical skilled pediatric nurse for disabled children and I also work through to agencies with geriatrics. I currently have my Illinois license, Iowa license and Ohio license.
I am a RN from Michigan & am available to assist during hurricane Harvey relief. Who do I contact?
I am an RN for 30 years & willing to come assist where needed.
I too am very much interested in assisting. I am an RN with 23yrs of experience. PLEASE contact me!!
i am a Psychiatric Nurse in Cleveland, and i want to volunteer. whom should i contact.
Im a social worker BSW. MY # is 4045521776. Call or text.
I am an LPN FOR 10 yrs. Dr office 4yrs, ekg, immunizations, biopsies,ect. Also pediatric trach/ vent/ g tube nurse for 6 yrs. Also, wound care nurse.
I am a nurse here in Houston. I am working Pediatric Home Care at this time. I have been fortunate in that I am still able to work. My home was damaged during the storm…roof damage and leaks. Our deductible is extremely high (if the insurance helps at all…I won’t find out for at least 2 weeks). Is there a way to receive some financial assistance? FEMA is not providing help to us as we did not have floodwaters in our home. This is my first home and I’m lost. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
PCT currently in 3rd year of nursing school, want to do anything I can to help. Please email with info wagner0207@gmail.com
LPN from Calgary, Alberta, Canada! ??Willing and eager to help any and all in need. Please contact if I can be of any help! ❤️
Proud to represent our country and do my part. RN and ready to help, please contact me.
I am LPN in Arkansas. I am willing to help. 5018139222
If you need CNA’s were willing to come in from Kentucky please email Ddnky1@gmail.com
Want to sign up for Florida relief for 2 weeks , should I do this through FEMA…Shawna RN MI
Im a Rn with 20years experience. Will travel to texas. 401 942 7012
I am a LPN licensed by the state of Nebraska. No temporary license needed, (compact state licensed) would love to come help. Would like more info. Thank you Monieharp1@yahoo.com
AM an Retired RPN from Ontario, Canada with over 20 plus years in the healthcare industry, travelnursing, community nursing and home care, specializing in Mental health, including seniors and forensics and palliative care,am interested in helping.
I am a Canadian Registered Nurse who has 28 years of Mental Health and Emergency Room experience. Who would I contact to find out more about going to Texas to work a week or two?
I am LPN EMT with trauma orthopedic cardiology geriatrics’s and all age group experience. Iam BLS ACLS certified EKG certified venapuncture experienced. I am a member of medical reserve corp in New Jersey nursing license in NJ PA Fl. I have Acute care Hospital experience surgical floor Assisted living Nurse Supervisor. I can adapt to any environment I have experience in disaster as well Katrina and Sandy 911 ground zero search and rescue. I am waiting for Red Cross for deployment not fast enough
I am a CNA licensed in the state of Kentucky and have 16 years of experience and would like to help in the hurricane relief…423-489-4876..either in Texas or Florida.
Is there still a need for RN help in the Houston area. I am a ICU RN with MS experience. please contact if there is a need.
I am a cna in the fort worth area. Who do i contact to volunteer in the Houston area?
I’m nurse with 30+ year as home care nurse. The home care is value fr the stake point which accurate displace personnel feel secure which how are. I really enjoy people rebuild their life. I am available at the need of the people.
Cna/ med tech willing to help, contact me if i could help
I am a CNA with 20 years experience. I am also CPR and AED certified. I am ready, willing and able to help.