Robyn Gershon

Clinical Professor of Epidemiology

Professional overview

Dr. Gershon is an interdisciplinary occupational and environmental health and safety researcher with extensive experience in the areas of disaster preparedness, healthcare safety, and risk assessment and management in high-risk work occupations. She earned her doctorate in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, School of Public Health, where she was on faculty for several years.  

Subsequently, Dr. Gershon was a Professor at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University, with a joint appointment in the School of Nursing.

At the Mailman School, she also served as the Associate Dean for Research and was the Director of the Mentoring Program. Her most recent faculty appointment prior to joining NYU GPH was Professor of Epidemiology and Biostatistics and the Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). She was also an Adjunct Professor in the UCSF School of Nursing, as well as at UC Berkeley where she taught public health disaster courses.

Dr. Gershon and her team conducted numerous ground breaking studies to develop and test new metrics of preparedness. Importantly, Dr. Gershon’s work has influenced the adoption of safe work practices and regulatory control measures, such as national needlestick prevention guidelines and high-rise building fire safety laws. Her numerous research studies encompass a wide range of topics, including, (to name a few): bloodborne pathogen exposure; hospital safety climate; psychosocial work stress in law enforcement; “ability and willingness” of essential workforce employees to report to duty during natural and man-made disasters; preparedness of responders for terrorist incidents; emergency high–rise building evacuation- (including the World Trade Center Evacuation Study); emergency preparedness of the elderly and disabled; mass fatality management infrastructure in the US; adherence to emergency public health measures among the general public;  hearing loss risk in subway ridership; and noise exposure in urban populations.

Dr. Gershon recently completed a four-year, longitudinal intervention NIH-funded study on motivation and persistence in pursuing STEM research careers among underrepresented doctoral students. (the BRIDGE Project). 

As a committed advocate for junior faculty and graduate students, Dr. Gershon will play an active role in research mentorship and advisement. 

Education

BS, Medical Technology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT

MHS, Medical Microbiology, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT

DrPH, Environmental and Occupational Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD

Honors and awards

Recipient, American Society of Safety Engineers, Membership Award, Oakland, CA (2016)

Recipient, John L. Ziegler Capstone Mentor Award, Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco (2015)

Recipient, City of New York Fire Commissioner's Special Commendation Certificate of Appreciation (2006)

Recipient, Survivors' Salute, World Trade Center Survivors' Network (2006)

Recipient, Annual International Sharps Injury Prevention Award (2005)

Delta Omega (Public Health) Honorary Society (1997)

Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society (Microbiology) (1976)

Lambda Tau Mu Honor Society (Laboratory Science) (1976)

Areas of research and study

Disaster Health

Disaster Impact and Recovery

Disaster Preparedness

Environmental Public Health Services

Epidemiology

Healthcare Safety

Occupational Health

Risk Assessment and Management

Publications

Publications

Health and safety hazards associated with subways : A review

Gershon, R., Gershon, R. R., Qureshi, K. A., Barrera, M. A., Erwin, M. J., & Goldsmith, F. (n.d.).

Publication year

2005

Journal title

Journal of Urban Health

Volume

82

Issue

1

Page(s)

10-20

10.1093/jurban/jti004

Abstract

Abstract

Subway systems are key components in mass transportation networks worldwide, providing rapid and affordable transportation to urban communities in 58 different countries. The benefits afforded by subway transit are numerous and mainly derived from the reduction in automobile use, thereby limiting environmental and health hazards associated with exhaust-air emissions. Additionally, by limiting congestion and providing vital transportation links within a city, subways also improve the overall quality of life of urban communities. However, to best maximize the positive impact on the urban environment, subway systems need to provide a safe and healthy environment for both passengers and subway transit workers. Periodically, safety concerns are raised, most recently in relation to the vulnerability of subways, to terrorist attacks. To examine this issue more carefully, we conducted a structured review of the literature to identify and characterize potential health and safety hazards associated with subways. A secondary goal was to identify various risk management strategies designed to minimize the risk of these hazards. This information may be helpful to urban communities, urban planners, public health specialists, and others interested in subway safety.

Health care emergency preparedness: changes on the horizon

Gershon, R., & Zhi, Q. (n.d.).

Publication year

2017

Journal title

Journal of the Association of Occupational Health Professionals in Healthcare

Page(s)

20

Abstract

Abstract

~

Health care workers' ability and willingness to report to duty during catastrophic disasters

Gershon, R., Qureshi, K., Gershon, R. R., Sherman, M. F., Straub, T., Gebbie, E., McCollum, M., Erwin, M. J., & Morse, S. S. (n.d.).

Publication year

2005

Journal title

Journal of Urban Health

Volume

82

Issue

3

Page(s)

378-388

10.1093/jurban/jti086

Abstract

Abstract

Catastrophic disasters create surge capacity needs for health care systems. This is especially true in the urban setting because the high population density and reliance on complex urban infrastructures (e.g., mass transit systems and high rise buildings) could adversely affect the ability to meet surge capacity needs. To better understand responsiveness in this setting, we conducted a survey of health care workers (HCWs) (N=6,428) from 47 health care facilities in New York City and the surrounding metropolitan region to determine their ability and willingness to report to work during various catastrophic events. A range of facility types and sizes were represented in the sample. Results indicate that HCWs were most able to report to work for a mass casualty incident (MCI) (83%), environmental disaster (81%), and chemical event (71%) and least able to report during a smallpox epidemic (69%), radiological event (64%), sudden acute respiratory distress syndrome (SARS) outbreak (64%), or severe snow storm (49%). In terms of willingness, HCWs were most willing to report during a snow storm (80%), MCI (86%), and environmental disaster (84%) and least willing during a SARS outbreak (48%), radiological event (57%), smallpox epidemic (61%), and chemical event (68%). Barriers to ability included transportation problems, child care, eldercare, and pet care obligations. Barriers to willingness included fear and concern for family and self and personal health problems. The findings were consistent for all types of facilities. Importantly, many of the barriers identified are amenable to interventions.

Health care workers' experience with postexposure management of bloodborne pathogen exposures : A pilot study

Gershon, R., Flanagan, P. A., Karkashian, C., Grimes, M., Wilburn, S., Frerotte, J., Guidera, J., & Pugliese, G. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

American Journal of Infection Control

Volume

28

Issue

6

Page(s)

421-428

10.1067/mic.2000.109907

Abstract

Abstract

Purpose: This descriptive study of health care workers enrolled in a postexposure bloodborne pathogen management program had 3 goals: (1) to characterize their exposure incidents, (2) to assess health care workers' experience with the program, and (3) to identify strategies to improve the management of exposure incidents. Methods: A confidential, self-administered, 5-page survey was mailed to 150 hospital employees who were recently evaluated in the employee health clinic for a blood/body fluid exposure. Results: Sixty-five usable surveys were returned to the study office, representing a 43% response rate. Although the majority of the employees enrolled in the postexposure management program were generally satisfied with the overall quality of care they received, many respondents perceived a lack of social support during the lengthy follow-up period. Long-term distress related to the exposure was not uncommon. The respondents' suggestions for improvement focused on the need for department managers to become more personally involved when their staff members have an exposure incident. Conclusion: These qualitative data suggest that additional studies are needed to assess both the short-term and long-term impact of exposure incidents on the health and well being of affected health care workers. In addition, because of a paucity of information in this area, studies are needed to assess both the effectiveness of the United States Public Health Service recommendations for postexposure management and the degree to which they have been implemented by health care facilities.

Hepatitis B vaccination in correctional health care workers

Gershon, R., Mitchell, C., Sherman, M. F., Vlahov, D., Lears, M. K., Felknor, S., & Lubelczyk, R. A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2005

Journal title

American Journal of Infection Control

Volume

33

Issue

9

Page(s)

510-518

10.1016/j.ajic.2005.04.245

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Data on bloodborne pathogen risk among health care workers (HCWs) employed in the correctional setting are sparse, even though the prevalence of bloodborne infections, including hepatitis B virus (HBV), among inmates is high. To address this, we determined prevalence and correlates of hepatitis B virus vaccination status in correctional health care workers (CHCWs) employed in 3 state correctional health care facilities. Methods: A confidential, self-administered cross-sectional survey was performed. Results: Four hundred eleven (69.8%) of 588 eligible participants completed the survey. Of these, 264 (64.2%) reported receiving a primary hepatitis B (HB) vaccine series. Vaccination rates varied by state and by job category. Parenteral exposures were not uncommon; 8.6% (n = 24) of clinical CHCWs and 2.0% (n = 7) of nonclinical CHCWs reported one or more needlesticks in the 6-month period prior to the study. Among clinical staff, vaccination correlated with licensure (RN or MD) and race (white) and in nonclinical staff with history of close contact with HBV infected inmates and with needlestick injury. Conclusion: Although the HB vaccination rate among CHCWs was generally high, given their potential risk of exposure to HBV, universal vaccination should be encouraged and should include those nonclinicians with job duties that may involve potential exposure to blood/body fluids.

HIV infection risk to health-care workers

Gershon, R., & Vlahov, D. (n.d.).

Publication year

1990

Journal title

American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal

Volume

51

Issue

12

Page(s)

A-802-A-806

10.1080/15298669091370329

Abstract

Abstract

The risk of occupationally acquired human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in exposed health-care workers has been estimated to be 0.5% after accidental needlestick with an HIV-contaminated needle. Needlestick injuries resulting in parenteral exposure to HIV-infected material are the most common reported cause of occupational HIV infection in health-care workers. With 60% of these exposures unpreventable even with strict adherence to current infection control procedures, it is necessary to develop technical changes in work protection in order to further reduce the risk.

HIV infection risk to nonhealth-care workers

Gershon, R., Gershon’, R. M., Vlahov, D., & Nelson’, K. E. (n.d.).

Publication year

1990

Journal title

American Industrial Hygiene Association Journal

Volume

51

Issue

12

Page(s)

A-807-A-809

10.1080/15298669091370338

Abstract

Abstract

~

Home health care challenges and avian influenza

Gershon, R., Qureshi, K. A., Stone, P. W., Pogorzelska, M., Silver, A., Damsky, M. R., Burdette, C., Gebbie, K. M., & Raveis, V. H. (n.d.).

Publication year

2007

Journal title

Home Health Care Management and Practice

Volume

20

Issue

1

Page(s)

58-69

10.1177/1084822307305908

Abstract

Abstract

Recent public health disasters, both nationally and internationally, have underscored the importance of preparedness in effectively responding to these events. Within the home health care sector, preparedness is especially critical, as home care patients may be at increased risk of disaster-related morbidity and mortality because of their age, disability, or other vulnerability. Importantly, the home health care population is growing, with an estimated 7 million patients currently receiving home health care services. Yet the degree of preparedness at all levels of the home care sector (agency, health care worker, and patient and/or family) is largely unknown. Without this knowledge, important first steps toward development and implementation designed to address barriers to preparedness cannot be taken. To help address some of these knowledge gaps, one aspect of preparedness, namely the willingness of home health care workers to respond during an avian influenza outbreak, was recently examined. Findings revealed very low levels of willingness. Preliminary recommendations designed to address this issue are presented following a general discussion of the issue.

Home health care registered nurses and the risk of percutaneous injuries : A pilot study

Gershon, R., Pogorzelska, M., Qureshi, K. A., & Sherman, M. (n.d.).

Publication year

2008

Journal title

American Journal of Infection Control

Volume

36

Issue

3

Page(s)

165-172

10.1016/j.ajic.2007.04.278

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Home health care is the fastest-growing sector in the health care industry, expected to grow 66% over the next 10 years. Yet data on occupational health hazards, including the potential risk of exposure to blood and body fluids, associated with the home care setting remain very limited. As part of a larger study of bloodborne pathogen risk in non-hospital-based registered nurses (RNs), data from 72 home health care nurses were separately analyzed to identify risk of blood/body fluid exposure. Methods: A 152-item self-administered mailed risk assessment questionnaire was completed by RNs employed in home health care agencies in New York State. Results: Nine (13%) of the home health care nurses experienced 10 needlesticks in the 12-month period before the study. Only 4 of the needlesticks were formally reported to the nurse's employer. The devices most frequently associated with needlesticks were hollow-bore and phlebotomy needles, and included 3 needles with safety features. Exposure was most commonly attributed to patient actions, followed by disposal-related activities. Conclusions: These data suggest that home health care nurses may be at potential occupational risk for bloodborne pathogen exposure. Risk management strategies tailored to the home health care setting may be most effective in reducing this risk.

Hospital safety climate and its relationship with safe work practices and workplace exposure incidents

Gershon, R., Karkashian, C. D., Grosch, J. W., Murphy, L. R., Escamilla-Cejudo, A., Flanagan, P. A., Bernacki, E., Kasting, C., & Martin, L. (n.d.).

Publication year

2000

Journal title

American Journal of Infection Control

Volume

28

Issue

3

Page(s)

211-221

10.1067/mic.2000.105288

Abstract

Abstract

Background: In the industrial setting, employee perceptions regarding their organization's commitment to safety (ie, safety climate) have been shown to be important correlates to both the adoption and maintenance of safe work practices and to workplace injury rates. However, safety climate measures specific to the hospital setting have rarely been evaluated. This study was designed to develop a short and effective tool to measure hospital safety climate with respect to institutional commitment to bloodborne pathogen risk management programs and to assess the relationship between hospital safety climate and (1) employee compliance with safe work practices and (2) incidents of workplace exposure to blood and other body fluids. Methods.' A questionnaire, which included 46 safety climate items, was developed and tested on a sample of 789 hospital-based health care workers at risk for bloodborne pathogen exposure incidents. Results: A 20-item hospital safety climate scale that measures hospitals' commitment to bloodborne pathogen risk management programs was extracted through factor analysis from the 46 safety climate items. This new hospital safety climate scale subfactored into 6 different organizational dimensions: (1) senior management support for safety programs, (2) absence of workplace barriers to safe work practices, (3) cleanliness and orderliness of the work site, (4) minimal conflict and good communication among staff members, (5) frequent safety- related feedback/training by supervisors, and (6) availability of personal protective equipment and engineering controls. Of these, senior management support for safety programs, absence of workplace barriers to safe work practices, and cleanliness/orderliness of the work site were significantly related to compliance (P < .05). In addition, both senior management support for safety programs and frequent safety-related feedback/training were significantly related to workplace exposure incidents (P < .05). Thus the most significant finding in terms of enhancing compliance and reducing exposure incidents was the importance of the perception that senior management was supportive of the bloodborne pathogen safety program. Conclusions: Hospital safety climate with regards to bloodborne pathogens can be measured by using a short, 20-question scale that measures 6 separate dimensions. Whereas all 6 dimensions are essential elements of overall safety climate, 3 dimensions are significantly correlated with compliance, and 1 dimension (senior management support) is especially significant with regard to both compliance and exposure incidents. This short safety climate scale can be a useful tool for evaluating hospital employees' perceptions regarding their organization's bloodborne pathogens management program. In addition, because this scale measures specific dimensions of the safety climate, it can be used to target problem areas and guide the development of intervention strategies to reduce occupational exposure incidents to blood and other body fluids.

Household-related hazardous conditions with implications for patient safety in the home health care sector

Gershon, R., Canton, A. N., Raveis, V. H., Silver, A., Chen, C. C., Qureshi, K. A., Sherman, M. F., & Stone, P. W. (n.d.).

Publication year

2008

Journal title

Journal of Patient Safety

Volume

4

Issue

4

Page(s)

227-234

10.1097/PTS.0b013e31818936e3

Abstract

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The home health care (HHC) setting is unique because it is both a household and a care-giving environment. As such, it may present a risk for adverse events that could affect the health and safety of HHC patients. This study assessed and characterized unsafe household conditions with implications for patient safety in the HHC setting. METHODS:: A convenience sample of HHC registered nurses (RNs) from New York State completed a self-administered survey, which addressed the type and frequency of hazardous conditions in the households of their current patients. These nurses were asked to report on potential hazards (biological, chemical, environmental and physical, and violence) observed in patients' households. RESULTS:: A total of 738 RNs completed the survey. Hazardous household conditions were frequently reported including animal hair (n = 543, 74%), cigarette smoke (n = 534, 72%), excessive dust (n = 428, 58%), vermin (n = 328, 44%), and unsanitary conditions (n = 317, 43%). The threat of violence was also frequently reported. Hazardous conditions were significantly associated with a number of patient-related factors. CONCLUSIONS:: Hazardous conditions identified in the households of HHC patients present a well-documented risk of injury/illness in the community setting and may also present occupational risk to caregivers. Many of these hazards are readily modifiable, although others may be less amenable to intervention. Additional studies are warranted in order to further assess and characterize the prevalence and risk factors for hazardous household conditions and to determine the relationship between these conditions and adverse patient safety events in the home care setting.

Impact of heath information technology on the quality of patient care

Hessels, A., Flynn, L., Cimiotti, J. P., Bakken, S., & Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2016

Journal title

Online Journal of Nursing Informatics

Volume

19

Issue

3

Page(s)

1

Abstract

Abstract

Objective To examine the relationships among Electronic Health Record (EHR) adoption and adverse outcomes and satisfaction in hospitalized patients. Materials and Methods This secondary analysis of cross-sectional data was compiled from four sources: (1) State Inpatient Database from the Healthcare Cost Utilization Project; (2) Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Dorenfest Institute; (3) Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Survey (HCAHPS) and (4) New Jersey nurse survey data. The final analytic sample consisted of data on 854,258 adult patients discharged from 70 New Jersey hospitals in 2006 and 7,679 nurses working in those same hospitals. The analytic approach used ordinary least squares and multiple regression models to estimate the effects of EHR adoption stage on the delivery of nursing care and patient outcomes, controlling for characteristics of patients, nurses, and hospitals. Results Advanced EHR adoption was independently associated with fewer patients with prolonged length of stay and seven-day readmissions. Advanced EHR adoption was not associated with patient satisfaction even when controlling for the strong relationships between better nursing practice environments, particularly staffing and resource adequacy, and missed nursing care and more patients reporting "Top-Box," satisfaction ratings. Conclusions This innovative study demonstrated that advanced stages of EHR adoption show some promise in improving important patient outcomes of prolonged length of stay and hospital readmissions. Strongly evident by the relationships among better nursing work environments, better quality nursing care, and patient satisfaction is the importance of supporting the fundamentals of quality nursing care as technology is integrated into practice.

Impact of occupational exposure to COVID-19 on the physical and mental health of an essential workgroup : New York City transit workers

Gershon, R., Merdjanoff, A. A., Meltzer, G. Y., Piltch-Loeb, R., Rosen, J., Nwankwo, E. M., Medina, P., Vlahov, D., & Sherman, M. F. (n.d.).

Publication year

2021

Journal title

Journal of Emergency Management

Volume

19

Issue

9

Page(s)

133-146

10.5055/jem.0599

Abstract

Abstract

Background and purpose: Early on in the COVID-19 pandemic, New York City (NYC) vowed to “keep the subways running” despite the lack of plans in place for protecting the health and well-being of transit workers. This study was designed to assess the impact of employment during the early phase of the pandemic on this essential frontline workforce. Methods, settings, and study participants: A convenience sample of members (stratified by job title) of the NYC Transport Workers Union, Local 100, was recruited in August 2020 to participate in an anonymous, cross-sectional, internet-based survey. Results: The demographics of the sample participants (N = 645) reflected union membership, ie, 82 percent male, 29 percent Black; 27 percent Hispanic, and 59 percent ≥age 50 years. At the time of the “NYC Pause” (March 22, 2020) when mandatory stay-at-home orders were issued, transit workers had limited worksite protections. Many reported a lack of such basics as face masks (43 percent), hand sanitizer (40 percent), and disposable gloves (34 percent). A high proportion (87 percent) were concerned about getting infected at work. Lack of certain protections was significantly associated with both fear of contagion at work and mental health symptoms. Nearly 24 percent of participants reported a history of COVID-19 infection. Self-reported infection was significantly correlated with lack of certain protections, including respiratory masks (p < 0.001), disposable gloves (p < 0.001), and hand sanitizer (p < 0.001). Infection was also significantly associated with mental health symptoms (p < 0.001). By August 2020, despite participants reporting that many worksite protections were then in place, 72 percent of workers were still fearful for their safety at work, eg, because of potential exposure due to passengers not wearing masks, and risk of verbal abuse and physical assault by passengers angered when asked to wear face masks. Workers who were fearful for their safety at work were more than six times more likely to report mental health symptoms (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Lack of worksite protections before “NYC Pause” (March 22, 2020) was significantly associated with self-reported infection, fear, and mental health symptoms in TWU, Local 100 members. To reduce the risk of adverse impacts associated with bioevents in all essential work groups, and across all essential occupational settings, infection control preparedness, early recognition of risk, and implementation of tailored risk reduction strategies are imperative. Pandemic preparedness is fundamental to protecting the health and well-being of essential workers and crucial in controlling the spread of disease in the community. Bioevent preparedness for all essential frontline workgroups will also help reduce occupational health inequities. Workers at risk, regardless of setting, deserve and have the right to equal protections under federal and state law.

Infection control basis for recommending one-time use of sterile syringes and aseptic procedures for injection drug users

Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

1998

Journal title

Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes and Human Retrovirology

Volume

18

Issue

SUPPL.

Page(s)

S20-S24

10.1097/00042560-199802001-00005

Abstract

Abstract

Persons who inject drugs are at increased risk for many infectious diseases, including HIV, Reuse of syringes and needles and other equipment used to prepare and inject drugs increases the risk of infection with blood- borne and other pathogens. According to standard infection control guidelines, needles and syringes and their contents fall within the critical category of patient contact because they enter the normally sterile vascular space. Medical equipment considered critical should be treated or prepared in a manner that destroys vegetative and spore-forming microbes. The simplest way to ensure this level of hygienic practice is to use prepackaged, sterile, disposable needles and syringes and to use sterile drug preparation equipment and drugs. These recommendations are made as part of a comprehensive infection prevention program designed for injection drug users.

Infection control practices among correctional healthcare workers : Effect of management attitudes and availability of protective equipment and engineering controls

Gershon, R., Green-McKenzie, J., Gershon, R. R., & Karkashian, C. (n.d.).

Publication year

2001

Journal title

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology

Volume

22

Issue

9

Page(s)

555-559

10.1086/501951

Abstract

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To determine the relation of the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) and engineering controls to infection control (IC) practices in a prison health care setting, and to explore the effect on IC practices of a perceived organizational commitment to safety. DESIGN: Cross-sectional survey. SETTING: The study population was drawn from the 28 regional Correctional Health Care Workers Facilities in Maryland. PARTICIPANTS: All full-time Maryland correctional health care workers (HCWs) were surveyed, and 225 (64%) of the 350 responded. METHOD: A confidential, self-administered questionnaire was mailed to all correctional HCWs employed in the 28 Maryland Correctional Health Care Facilities. The questionnaire was analyzed psychometrically and validated through extensive pilot testing. It included items on three major constructs: IC practices, safety climate (defined as the perception of organizational commitment to safety), and availability of IC equipment and supplies. RESULTS: A strong correlation was found between the availability of PPE and IC practices. Similarly, a strong correlation was found between IC practices and the presence of engineering controls. In addition, an equally strong association was seen between the adoption of IC practices and employee perception of management commitment to safety. Those employees who perceived a high level of management support for safety were more than twice as likely to adhere to recommended IC practices. IC practices were significantly more likely to be followed if PPE was always readily available. Similarly, IC practices were more likely to be followed if engineering controls were provided. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that ready availability of PPE and the presence of engineering controls are crucial to help ensure their use in this high-risk environment. This is especially important because correctional HCWs are potentially at risk of exposure to bloodborne pathogens such as human immunodeficiency virus and hepatitis B and C viruses. Commitment to safety was found to be highly associated with the adoption of safe work practices. There is an inherent conflict of "custody versus care" in this setting; hence, it is especially important that we understand and appreciate the relation between safety climate and IC practices. Interventions designed to improve safety climate, as well as availability of necessary IC supplies and equipment, will most likely prove effective in improving employee compliance with IC practices in this health care setting.

Infectious disease risk in correctional facility-based healthcare workers

Gershon, R., Green-McKenzie, J., & Swetz, A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2002

Journal title

Clinics in Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Volume

2

Issue

3

Page(s)

519-536

10.1016/S1526-0046(02)00020-1

Abstract

Abstract

The prison healthcare setting is a unique healthcare environment. Prison healthcare, although similar in many ways to the acute care setting, has many important and potentially risky differences. Efforts to reduce risk have been intensified; the National Commission of Correctional Healthcare has taken an important leadership role in developing and promoting safe work practices for CHCWs [72, 73]. Many opportunities for improvements exist, and the challenge will be to further reduce risk through the development and implementation of effective risk-control strategies that are tailored to this special healthcare setting.

Job loss, unemployment, work stress, job satisfaction, and the persistence of posttraumatic stress disorder one year after the september 11 attacks

Nandi, A., Galea, S., Tracy, M., Ahern, J., Resnick, H., Gershon, R., & Vlahov, D. (n.d.).

Publication year

2004

Journal title

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Volume

46

Issue

10

Page(s)

1057-1064

10.1097/01.jom.0000141663.22902.0a

Abstract

Abstract

The influence of unemployment and adverse work conditions on the course of psychopathology after a mass disaster is unclear. We recruited a representative sample of adults living in the New York City metropolitan area six months after the September 11 attacks and completed follow-up interviews on 71% of the baseline sample six months later (N = 1939). At follow-up, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) persisted in 42.7% of the 149 cases with PTSD at baseline. In multivariable models, unemployment at any time since baseline predicted PTSD persistence in the entire cohort (P = 0.02) and among persons employed at follow-up (P = 0.02). High levels of perceived work stress predicted PTSD persistence among persons employed at follow-up (P = 0.02). Persons unemployed in the aftermath of a disaster may be at risk for poor mental health in the long-term.

Laboratory professionals' compliance with universal precautions

McGovern, P. M., Kochevar, L. K., Vesley, D., & Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

1997

Journal title

Laboratory Medicine

Volume

28

Issue

11

Page(s)

725-730

10.1093/labmed/28.11.725

Abstract

Abstract

This study characterizes compliance with universal precautions specific to the use of personal protective equipment among hospital-based laboratory professionals. Secondary data from a cross-sectional survey of hospital- based health care workers expected to be at high risk for exposure to bloodborne pathogens were used to create a sample of 286 laboratory professionals. A theoretical model that addressed compliance with preventive behaviors provided the framework for the study's design and analysis. One 39% of the laboratorians in the study strictly complied with universal precautions of personal protective equipment. Factors correlated most strongly with compliance included employees' perceptions of the hospital's commitment to safety management and of their risk for occupational exposure to the human immunodeficiency virus.

Laboratory safety

Gershon, R., & Salkin, I. (n.d.).

Publication year

1992

Abstract

Abstract

~

Landesman's Public Health Management of Disasters: The Practice Guide, 5th Edition

Landesman, L., Gershon, R., Gebbie, E., & Merdjanoff, A. A. (n.d.). (5th ed.).

Publication year

2021

Abstract

Abstract

~

Mass fatality preparedness among medical examiners/coroners in the United States : A cross-sectional study

Gershon, R., Orr, M. G., Zhi, Q., Merrill, J. A., Chen, D. Y., Riley, H. E., & Sherman, M. F. (n.d.).

Publication year

2014

Journal title

BMC public health

Volume

14

Issue

1

10.1186/1471-2458-14-1275

Abstract

Abstract

Background: In the United States (US), Medical Examiners and Coroners (ME/Cs) have the legal authority for the management of mass fatality incidents (MFI). Yet, preparedness and operational capabilities in this sector remain largely unknown. The purpose of this study was twofold; first, to identify appropriate measures of preparedness, and second, to assess preparedness levels and factors significantly associated with preparedness. Methods: Three separate checklists were developed to measure different aspects of preparedness: MFI Plan Elements, Operational Capabilities, and Pre-existing Resource Networks. Using a cross-sectional study design, data on these and other variables of interest were collected in 2014 from a national convenience sample of ME/C using an internet-based, anonymous survey. Preparedness levels were determined and compared across Federal Regions and in relation to the number of Presidential Disaster Declarations, also by Federal Region. Bivariate logistic and multivariable models estimated the associations between organizational characteristics and relative preparedness. Results: A large proportion (42%) of respondents reported that less than 25 additional fatalities over a 48-hour period would exceed their response capacities. The preparedness constructs measured three related, yet distinct, aspects of preparedness, with scores highly variable and generally suboptimal. Median scores for the three preparedness measures also varied across Federal Regions and as compared to the number of Presidential Declared Disasters, also by Federal Region. Capacity was especially limited for activating missing persons call centers, launching public communications, especially via social media, and identifying temporary interment sites. The provision of staff training was the only factor studied that was significantly (positively) associated (p < .05) with all three preparedness measures. Although ME/Cs ranked local partners, such as Offices of Emergency Management, first responders, and funeral homes, as the most important sources of assistance, a sizeable proportion (72%) expected federal assistance. Conclusions: The three measures of MFI preparedness allowed for a broad and comprehensive assessment of preparedness. In the future, these measures can serve as useful benchmarks or criteria for assessing ME/Cs preparedness. The study findings suggest multiple opportunities for improvement, including the development and implementation of national strategies to ensure uniform standards for MFI management across all jurisdictions.

Mass fatality preparedness in the death care sector

Gershon, R., Magda, L. A., Riley, H. E., & Merrill, J. A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2011

Journal title

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Volume

53

Issue

10

Page(s)

1179-1186

10.1097/JOM.0b013e31822cfe76

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: To characterize mass fatality preparedness of the death care sector (ie, funeral industry organizations) and to determine the workforce's ability and willingness to report to duty during a hypothetical high fatality pandemic event. Methods: Anonymous, Web-based, cross-sectional survey of a national funeral industry sample. Preparedness was characterized using descriptive statistics. Factors significantly associated with ability and willingness were identified using chi-squared bivariate analysis. Results: Respondents (N = 492) generally rated their organizational preparedness planning as suboptimal; only six of thirteen preparedness checklist items were typically in place. In contrast, response intentions were uniformly high; more than 80% of the respondents were willing to report to work, although high prevalence of secondary obligations might hinder this. Conclusions: Preparedness strategies that address interorganizational, surge capacity, and personal emergency planning are likely to be most efficacious. STATEMENT OF CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Occupational medicine plays an important role in emergency preparedness and response. Funeral industry organizations could benefit from skills and resources of occupational medicine, including training, fit testing, development of plans, and coordination and hosting of planning exercises.

Mass transit ridership and self-reported hearing health in an urban population

Gershon, R., Sherman, M. F., Magda, L. A., Riley, H. E., McAlexander, T. P., & Neitzel, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2013

Journal title

Journal of Urban Health

Volume

90

Issue

2

Page(s)

262-275

10.1007/s11524-012-9734-2

Abstract

Abstract

Information on prevalence and risk factors associated with self-reported hearing health among mass transit riders is extremely limited, even though evidence suggests mass transit may be a source of excessive exposure to noise. Data on mass transit ridership were collected from 756 study participants using a self-administered questionnaire. Hearing health was measured using two symptom items (tinnitus and temporary audiometric threshold shift), two subjective measures (self-rated hearing and hearing ability), and two medical-related questions (hearing testing and physician-diagnosed hearing loss). In logistic regression analyses that controlled for possible confounders, including demographic variables, occupational noise exposure, nonoccupational noise exposure (including MP3 player use) and use of hearing protection, frequent and lengthy mass transit (all forms) ridership (1,100 min or more per week vs. 350 min or less per week) was the strongest predictor of temporary threshold shift symptoms. Noise abatement strategies, such as engineering controls, and the promotion of hearing protection use should be encouraged to reduce the risk of adverse impacts on the hearing health of mass transit users.

Mass-Fatality Incident Preparedness among Faith-Based Organizations

Zhi, Q., Merrill, J. A., & Gershon, R. (n.d.).

Publication year

2017

Journal title

Prehospital and Disaster Medicine

Volume

32

Issue

6

Page(s)

596-603

10.1017/S1049023X17006665

Abstract

Abstract

Introduction Members of faith-based organizations (FBOs) are in a unique position to provide support and services to their local communities during disasters. Because of their close community ties and well-established trust, they can play an especially critical role in helping communities heal in the aftermath of a mass-fatality incident (MFI). Faith-based organizations are considered an important disaster resource and partner under the National Response Plan (NRP) and National Response Framework; however, their level of preparedness and response capabilities with respect to MFIs has never been evaluated. The purpose of this study was threefold: (1) to develop appropriate measures of preparedness for this sector; (2) to assess MFI preparedness among United States FBOs; and (3) to identify key factors associated with MFI preparedness. Problem New metrics for MFI preparedness, comprised of three domains (organizational capabilities, operational capabilities, and resource sharing partnerships), were developed and tested in a national convenience sample of FBO members. Methods Data were collected using an online anonymous survey that was distributed through two major, national faith-based associations and social media during a 6-week period in 2014. Descriptive, bivariate, and correlational analyses were conducted. Results One hundred twenty-four respondents completed the online survey. More than one-half of the FBOs had responded to MFIs in the previous five years. Only 20% of respondents thought that roughly three-quarters of FBO clergy would be able to respond to MFIs, with or without hazardous contamination. A higher proportion (45%) thought that most FBO clergy would be willing to respond, but only 37% thought they would be willing if hazardous contamination was involved. Almost all respondents reported that their FBO was capable of providing emotional care and grief counseling in response to MFIs. Resource sharing partnerships were typically in place with other voluntary organizations (73%) and less likely with local death care sector organizations (27%) or Departments of Health (DOHs; 32%). Conclusions The study suggests improvements are needed in terms of staff training in general, and specifically, drills with planning partners are needed. Greater cooperation and inclusion of FBOs in national planning and training will likely benefit overall MFI preparedness in the US.

Measurement of Organizational Culture and Climate in Healthcare

Gershon, R., Stone, P. W., Bakken, S., & Larson, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2004

Journal title

Journal of Nursing Administration

Volume

34

Issue

1

Page(s)

33-40

10.1097/00005110-200401000-00008

Abstract

Abstract

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