Ensuring a safe environment – we all play a part
September 3, 2020
As the threat of a second wave continues, it is vital that all colleagues adhere to the rules of wearing a face mask at all times whilst in clinical areas of our main hospital buildings.
Where social distancing is not possible this remains important during handovers, breaks and with ward based teaching. Hand hygiene is equally important. The reason for this is clear, we need to remain vigilant against the transmission of COVID-19 and do everything we can to keep our patients and colleagues safe from infection. Complacency is our enemy, so we must all work together to continue to fight the spread. See below for some important points to protect patients and colleagues:
Handwashing and gloves:
- Regular and effective hand washing is the best way to reduce the spread of the virus
- Gloves are single use and should only be worn when they are needed as part of PPE for a particular procedure or task and should immediately be disposed of following this and hand hygiene performed.
- Gloves are not required for procedures where there is a minimal risk of cross infection between patients and staff.
Social Distancing
To stop the spread of COVID-19 you should be taking steps to practice social distancing by leaving 2 metres (6ft) between you and those around you.
Whether you work in an office, clinical area, or someone’s home, you should be taking steps to limit close contact with colleagues.
- In communal areas such as coffee shops and restaurants you will see markings on the floor showing the ideal spacing between people.
- Observe the space around you and be mindful of not stepping into the personal space of others.
- Make good use of the technologies we now have available such as Webex Teams and Meetings to limit your face to face contact.
- If someone is too close, it’s okay to ask them to give you some space.
Manage the risk around you, if you feel that the behaviours of those around you are putting you at risk, speak up and notify your manager.