Disaster preparedness: is your unit ready?

This article brings attention to the need for disaster preparedness by individual dialysis facilities. It is recommended that each facility develop a specific plan for each type of disaster that might occur in the particular geographic location. It is also recommended that the community's disaster plan(s) be reviewed and incorporated in the planning process. This article addresses all aspects related to a natural disaster, including planning, drills, basic services, personnel, and the aftermath. Adequate preparation may lessen the destruction and negative consequences of a natural disaster.