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Royal North Shore Hospital Nursing and Midwifery
Message from the DONM Tracey Gray, Director of Nursing and Midwifery, RNSH
The last few weeks have been eventful to say the least. As is the case for our entire community, the hospital has been challenged by 2 CoVID - 19 exposures resulting in the lockdown of 5 wards— 6B, 7B, 7F, 8B and 9A for a 2 week period. The staff of these wards have risen to the challenge in ways I have come to expect of the nursing staff at RNSH. Ably supported by our Infection Prevention and Control team all staff swung into action and patiently and professionally managed the situation. Whilst 120 permanent nursing staff were required to self - isolate for 2 weeks, there were only 2 transmissions to other staff and no transmissions to any of our patients which s testimony to the skills of the remaining staff in these wards. What has also been very uplifting is the generosity displayed by staff from other units, many of whom offered to work overtime in the affected wards to cover the many vacancies left by staff in isolation. I would like to extend a heart felt thank you to all nurses who worked shifts in the affected wards to help out. It is very much appreciated by myself and your colleagues in these wards. Please also be mindful of even the mildest of symptoms and stay at home and get tested for CoVID - 19 if you do have symptoms. The Delta strain of the virus is circulating in our community and is far more infectious than previous strains. Your wellbeing during this time is paramount. Ensure you remain connected to others during the city lockdown, eat well and exercise regularly. Skin care for your face is also important. The CEC guide to doing so has been circulated, however is also available on their website. It is a good
common sense guide.
P2/N95 Mask fit testing is an initiative that will gather pace over the coming weeks. Most of the Risk Level 1 and 2 staff have been fit tested. Fit testing for Risk level 3 staff has also commenced. There will be clinics offered every week. We will advertise these and we encourage you to book in for your fitting. Once fitted for a particular mask you will receive a card from the fit tester with your nominated mask identified so that you may show your manager who will then ensure the right mask for you is available. Finally, the NSW Health Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery Awards acknowledge the passion, dedication and amazing contribution that nurses and midwives have on the health outcomes of patients, women and families across NSW. In 2021 the awards will include 6 local health district and specialty network - nominated awards, one consumer - nominated Healing Heart award and one colleague nominated Healing Heart award. A number of our talented staff have been nominated. Finalists will be announced on July 19. Good luck to everyone.
Stay safe and thank you again.
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