Dealing with the rise in COVID-19 infections
30-06-2022 -by Ulf Arndt and Hans Essers – medical managers
Unfortunately, the number of COVID-19 infections is rising again. We see this both during the day and at the HAP! This immediately causes problems with the staffing of our services. In order to defend ourselves as well as possible against these infections, we ask everyone, patient and healthcare provider, with COVID-19 related complaints to do a self-test.
A positive result is clear. However, you can’t completely trust a negative result: so stay alert when dealing with this category of patients! Urge these patients to wear a face mask when visiting the post and wear a face mask yourself when in contact with these patients. Everyone is free to wear gloves or PPE in such a situation. Because the 1.5 meter distance rule while working at the post is virtually impossible for triage nurses/doctor’s assistants and general practitioners, we still recommend wearing a face mask to protect yourself.
We still strongly advise against nebulizing at the post because of the risk of infection of caregivers and/or bystanders. Earlier we explained the use of medication via spacers: continue to use this as the first option. In the home situation, nebulization can sometimes be useful, but there it is mainly about the correct protection of the GP and driver. Think of at least FFP2 mask and, if necessary, PPE; Those resources are available. We also advise patients who cannot rule out COVID-19 or other infectious diseases (e.g. influenza, occasionally TB) to use low-threshold FFP2 and/or PPE. CLICK HERE for the simplified decision scheme for the triage of COVID-19 suspected patients. Summary:
Take good care of yourself and therefore your patients.