Recent developments with coronavirus (COVID-19) have directly impacted Australian health care workers after a 53-year old doctor at Ryde Hospital was diagnosed with the virus. 23 nurses, 13 doctors and four other health professionals at the hospital are now in home isolation.
“Everyday thousands of nurses and health care professionals will continue to turn up and fulfill their duties to service our communities and implement preventative health measures for the safety of all Australians,” ACN CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN said.
“We do this despite the potential risk, at times, to our own health and well-being.’’
As the pre-eminent and national leader of the nursing profession, the Australian College of Nursing is here to support our Fellows, Members and Australian nurses more broadly. The insights of those in the line of duty are of pivotal importance to us so please do not hesitate to share your experiences, questions or queries.
We continue to advise nurses to adhere to and promote National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards on Infection and Prevention and Control Systems to protect themselves and others.
We also recommend nurses stay up-to-date on the Australian Government Department of Health Novel Coronavirus Resources for Health Professionals.