It’s that time of year for influenza vaccines! We've had a busy September - with over 33,000 flu shots ordered during the month. We are gearing up for our busiest month of the year - October. Please check out some important information regarding flu shot events this season. 

Needles Used for Flu Vaccines

Please note the needles we are using are different from past years. You will need to make sure the connection is tight at BOTH the needle luer lock site as well as the syringe luer lock connection site. See below for details.

Nursing Judgement

You may have noticed some of the wording in our paperwork, stating the participant should wait 15 minutes after receiving their vaccine. I wanted to address some of the questions around this policy. 

Waiting 15 Minutes

If it is the participant’s very first Influenza vaccine, they should wait 15 minutes after receiving their shot. There are other circumstances where it may be appropriate for a participant to wait 15 minutes, depending on their medical history. As a nurse, you have the authority to ask a participant to stay 15 minutes if you have concerns.

Abiding by Consent Form

If you feel obligated to request participants to wait, try directing them to a common area to wait prior to going back to their work station. Tell them to notify you or the staff helping at the event if they experience any side effects.

Visit our Training Website here. This site is an excellent resource with access to the following:

• • TotalWellness Contractor Manual 
  • Flu Shot paperwork, certification program and educational resources 
  • Screening Events, certification program, iPad training & procedures
  •  Important Documents: contractor agreement, general event paperwork & ordering lab jacket.