Royal College of Nursing - Coronavirus information for nurses
The Royal College of Nursing has developed a new resource to support nurses in their understanding and management of the Wuhan novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).
The information, on a dedicated RCN webpage which will be continually updated, gives RCN member working in all health and care settings information about the virus, including its symptoms, how nursing staff can protect themselves and their colleagues.
The page is also hosting the latest guidance and updates from Department of Health and Social Care, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and public health bodies across the UK.
The RCN is using lessons identified from previous outbreaks such as Ebola and pandemic influenza to support members and advise key stakeholders in preparing and managing the current situation.
This now includes the creation of single point of contact (coronavirus@rcn.org.uk) on the RCN website, allowing members to seek information, pass on intelligence and have queries answered about the infection. The RCN hopes it will enable easy communication between the organisation and members on the frontline.
Rose Gallagher, RCN Professional Lead for Infection Prevention and Control said:
“Whilst this is a continually developing situation it is important those planning for potential cases of coronavirus, as well as those delivering care to those infected, know how best to protect themselves and their colleagues.
“This will involve having access to the most up to date information relevant to the UK country they are working in as well as adequate supplies of personal protective equipment and other necessary resources.
“Staff required to deliver clinical care to affected patients must be up to date with the necessary skills and experience such as the testing of masks and other protective equipment. The best way to protect patients and prevent further spread is through good infection prevention and control practices.”
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