I am sure by now, everyone is familiar with the term “coronavirus” or as we call it in the health sector, Covid-19, and it redefines the phrase “going viral”.
“Social distancing and isolation are now the buzz words that are heard around the globe”
There are lots of questions, lots of worries, lots of hysteria and panic. Is this the virus that will end our days?
This is an unprecedented time in our modern world. Social distancing and isolation are now the buzz words that are heard around the globe.
The NHS is prepared. As more and more suspected and confirmed cases come through the doors, staffs is donning their personal protective equipment (PPE) and are doing their best to deliver the very best care they can in very difficult circumstances.
A dedicated hospital is being set up in London, called NHS Nightingale and doctors, nurses and all healthcare workers are being called to volunteer to staff this huge endeavour.
In local trusts, policy is being put in place to cope with the demand and staff are working above and beyond what is expected of them.
More views from Su Hickman
Retired nurses and doctors are re-joining our ranks. Looking at news reports, you may be asking the question: Why? The answer is very simple. It’s what the NHS does and has done for decades.
Now is the time to be calm. If there is one thing health professionals know how to do, it’s how to work under pressure.
Putting a face mask on with the rest of your PPE and entering a confirmed case’s room for the first time is scary but it’s also a very brave thing to do.
For student nurses joining the fray, anxiety is high but as long as we follow the PPE guidelines, adhere to the training that is given and follow the policies we will emerge triumphant.
“The bottom line is this; the NHS never turns its back on a patient or their families”
The NHS stands willing, able and firm. It’s not just about the Covid, there are still other patients who still need our help and skills.
We care for the dying, the stroke patient that needs rehab to gain back their independence; we try and soothe the worry of the next of kin who is scared and frightened for their loved one, the patient who is struggling with their mental health.
The fact that workers from every discipline do this on a daily basis beautifully sums up the work ethic, the empathy and the humanity that workers from the care sector possess.
It is not done for glory or gain it is done because of our dedication and it is a true vocation. Viruses come and they go, just like the seasons and governments alike.
The bottom line is this; the NHS never turns its back on a patient or their families.
It has survived for over 70 years, doing what it does best, providing excellent care. This virus does not discriminate, so neither do we. We have got this. We are a team. We are the NHS.
Su Hickman is a nursing associate trainee, Hyper Acute Stroke Ward, John Radcliffe Hospital
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