As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold across the world, our healthcare system is working around the clock to ensure the safety and wellness of our nation. Nurses, Doctors and other healthcare professionals throughout the UK have shown immense strength and determination in their fight against the virus. It’s understandable that many of us feel helpless during these difficult times, but there are several things you can do to support and protect the NHS.
- Got Symptoms? Think before you act.
If you have some of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, such as a high temperature or persistent cough, please do not go directly to your local hospital, pharmacy or GP surgery. This may increase the risk of spreading the virus. NHS 111 have an online service providing access to advice and guidance from the safety of your home.
- Always call 999 in life threatening emergencies.
The emergency services are able to respond to life threatening emergencies, both to those which are related to COVID-19 and those which are not. It’s important to only use emergency services for emergencies, as resources are being used across the country to fight the virus.
- Stay up to date with advice.
Follow the latest updates given by the government. The guidelines are here to protect you, your loved ones and the NHS. Be mindful that there is lots of fake news in circulation, so use a trusted source for news and updates. And with that in mind…
- Effective Social Distancing.
The social distancing rules are in place to prevent or reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 between people. If you have a valid reason to be outside your home, such as essential food shopping or exercising (in line with guidelines), please be sure to keep a 2 meter gap, or 3 big steps, between you and other people.
- Take hygiene seriously.
Preventative measures such as washing your hands regularly, and keeping high-touch surfaces clean (such as worktops, door handles and mobile phones) can greatly reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
- Be thoughtful and be kind
Perhaps the most important thing you can do is to act with compassion, regard for others and kindness. Offer to support people who may be high-risk or vulnerable, reach out to friends or family who are isolating alone, and consider the impact your actions may have on others. Stockpiling and hoarding in shops means that there might not be enough left for key workers who can’t visit stores regularly. A seemingly “harmless” visit to your friends house may risk infecting an entire household. Please think before you act.
We’d like to thank the NHS and our nursing workforce for all their incredible work over the last few weeks, and we will continue to do all we can to support those on the front line caring for our country. Mayday Healthcare specialise in recruiting for healthcare staff across the country, so if you are looking for a nursing job, contact us today.