The following is a message to ENA members from ENA President Ron Kraus

Earlier this week, media outlets reported on an FBI bulletin that warned of armed protests at the capitals in all 50 states, as well as the presidential inauguration on Jan. 20 in Washington, D.C.

Although ENA sincerely hopes the potential violence and threats to public safety referenced by the FBI do not materialize, we cannot overlook the reality of how such incidents could impact emergency nurses and emergency departments across the country.

Our EDs continue to face challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, so a significant influx of patients from any type of natural disaster or mass casualty-type event would undoubtedly put additional strain on emergency care.

Today, I want to encourage our members and all emergency nurses to be prepared should unrest occur within their community, and I offer the following suggestions:

• Assess your facility’s location relative to places the FBI has identified for potential armed protests.
• Review and understand your facility’s disaster preparedness or similar plans.
• Visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ASPR TRACIE resource page designed to help prepare for, and respond to, traumatic events.

Time and time again, emergency nurses rise to the occasion during difficult times, standing at the ready on the front line – as we do every day – committed to the care of those who need us most.

Stay safe, everyone.

Ron Kraus

2021 ENA President