It’s the elephant in the room. And honestly, I’d rather keep this space all light and happy for the most part, but sometimes, we’ve got to tackle the dark stuff. SO. Covid-19… we’re coming at you from the MSC blogosphere.
Basically, if there was someone who ever doubted that nurses were true heroes, that someone would have done a 180 at this point. Nurses and medical professionals are literally at the front lines of this battle with a microscopic virus. And they’re doing a ridiculously good job despite the crazy circumstances. And you know what I’m talking about- not enough PPE, ventilators, beds etc. It’s a warzone out there in the hospitals, but the nurses are killing it.
Here’s the deal, though. The aforementioned is what’s going on in the hospitals. And the public knows it all. But what the public does not hear about is what’s happening when these nurses go home between shifts. They have spouses, young children, parents who may be elderly and at significant risk of contracting the dreaded coronavirus. Should they not go home? What is protocol?? The fact of the matter is that nurses cannot practice social distancing in their particular line of work, but that shouldn’t have to force them to choose between the health of their loved ones and reporting to duty. Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of tips nurses can incorporate into their lives while they spend time at home recharging for the next shift. Here’s to hoping everyone stays healthy and well! Read on.
1. First things first. Before touching anything or anyone, change out of your germ ridden scrubs, deposit them directly in the washing machine, and shower!
2. Along these lines, if possible, use a separate entrance from the rest of the family when coming home. Whether that be a back door, a garage entrance etc.
3. We know how much family mealtime means to health care workers who work 12-hour shifts and oftentimes miss dinner with the family. Yet it would be advisable to try and have your meals separate from the rest of the family. Everyone sitting around the table is a great opportunity for the virus to spread!
4. Set aside a bedroom or an area in the house that will be designated as your spot. It should be near a bathroom that will be for you and ONLY you to use. Make sure it has everything you need- towels, linens, entertainment, clothing, snacks etc. This is where you should hang out for the most part to avoid possibly infecting others.
5. Try and seal off vents, ducts and airways so that those nearest and dearest to you don’t breathe in the same air.
6. Monitor your family for signs and symptoms and just talk it all out. Let everyone express their fears and concerns, but most of all try to remain reassuring and calm.
Stay safe. Stay sane. And may God bless us all!
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