The American Association of Nurse Practitioners has released the results of a survey of nurse practitioners conducted between July 28 and August 9. Important data captured includes delays in getting patient results of COVID-19 tests, increases in nurse practitioners testing positive for COVID-19, and opinions on the regulatory and licensure flexibility many states are employing.
The survey also reviewed available PPE supplies in relation to those who were infected with COVID-19. In May, less than 2% of NPs reported testing positive for COVID-19 themselves. Today that figure has more than tripled, with 5% responding that they were infected at some point between the start of the pandemic and the end of July. While lack of PPE is no longer a top barrier for most NPs responding to COVID-19 in their communities, approximately one in five NPs (18%) continue to report they are going without necessary PPE.