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KEEP COVID SAFE
Care for yourself Provide better care of your patients
Margie Steffens OAM outlines some best practices to observe when working through this pandemic – and some that we should observe at all times 2020, EXTRAORDINARY TIMES – confusing, uncertain, and changeable, but a time to reflect on where we sit in this world. More importantly, how we respond now sets us up for the future. As chair of the Special Needs Special Interests Group (SIG), I work with some exceptional people at the forefront of infection control (in particular Dr Sharon Liberali) who are constantly reviewing and making recommendations based on current knowledge. Keep in mind that we are dealing with the ever-changing landscape
surrounding the unpredicatble behaviour of COVID-19 and indeed the behaviour of viruses in general. Without wanting to over simplify concerns, remember that knowledge is power; and that taking the time to quietly review the good literature – written by respected and knowledgeable authors – can help us to dispel the fear of the unknown. Social media, and the media in general, can further cause us disquiet and increase our anxiety. We tend to grasp at the first thing that hits our inbox, and it
is so easy to respond to that information as it may have been sent by a wellmeaning friend. I have been asked to share some information that I trust will give some guidance and help you to discern and gain confidence as the respected health care professional that you are! Managing patients 1. Screening will possibly become the norm. The basic checks regarding recent health history, travel and possible contacts is a sensible
