It has been years since the world experienced a pandemic and the COVID 19 pandemic has grappled everyone. Countries closed borders, imposed lockdown, and made it mandatory to wear masks. The pandemic came at a time where most countries were not prepared and this has resulted in depressed healthcare systems the world over.
Healthcare workers are the individuals that are on the frontline of fighting this pandemic and they need to have all the accurate information they can get if we are going to win this fight against COVID 19. This article will give the important things healthcare workers need to know about COVID 19 to ensure that they are safe and how Covid-19 staffers can come to the rescue.
What is COVID 19
COVID 19 is an infectious disease caused by an acute respiratory condition. The disease is caused by a virus called Corona. It was first defined in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and it has since spread to many other countries. The virus that causes COVID 19 has a 5 to 6-day average but the period can be up to 14 days.
How does COVID 19 spread
The Corona Virus spreads COVID 19, this means it can be spread through respiratory droplets or contact. The virus can be airborne during airborne processes. Health workers need to wear sufficient Protective personal equipment when dealing with suspected COVID 19 cases.
How Heathworkers should protect themselves
Wear adequate protective personal equipment
COVID19 is mainly spread through contact, the best thing you can do is to make sure that before you deal with patients you have a surgical cap, surgical goggles, a surgical face mask, a surgical gown, gloves, and closed shoes. These items of protective clothing will ensure that you do not come into contact with the virus. PPE might be very uncomfortable but wearing it will save you from a lot more discomfort.
Perform as many tasks as possible away from a patient
If a task can be done without getting into contact with a patient try to do that as much as you can. Ensure that you come into contact with a patient only when it is necessary. Limiting Contact with a COVID 19 patient will reduce our chances of contracting the disease. Ensure that when you get into contact your PPE is worn properly.
Handle waste properly
Healthcare workers need to deal with waste properly especially now. It is important to make sure that everyone that gets into contact with patients’ waste has the necessary gear to prevent the spread of the disease. Waste should be handled carefully.
Check for symptomsÂ
Health care workers should constantly be on the lookout for symptoms to prevent themselves from spreading the disease
Get tested
Healthcare workers should get tested for the disease as often as possible as they are at a high risk of contracting the disease.
