Nurses and hospital staff....what’s the true PPE situation?

[Walkingtohealth]

I am applying via NHS Professionals to come back to nursing. I’ll be a HCA as I left the register six years ago.

My Mum and DH are driving me mad about it all as they are panicking about COVID 19 and lack of PPE.

I have read all the news reports etc but find the media can sensationalise things, for example a social medial post went viral about lack of PPE at my local hospital only for the hospital to clarify that actually they still had enough PPE.

Is there a supply issue or not?

I’m sending all my ID and certificates over the NHS Professionals today. I want to help but I’m mindful of the worries my Mum and husband have. My son is autistic and I am his Carer,

Definite supply issue. I'm on the bank but not working. Still on staff fb group. Advice is now that normal sleeveless plastic apron are ok for positive patients. Just wash your arms afterwards.

Of course they say that's in line with current phe guidelines but I'm pretty sure the guidance is that because of the lack of ppe.

Thank you for that, I've sent everything to NHS Professionals now but will also be careful about what I take.

I think it varies trust to trust. Mine has plenty!!

Mine say they have plenty....you’re just not allowed to use it! They say there’s no need unless undertaking an AGP.

We can't get enough PPE for community visits. Inpatients seem fine but are reliant on daily supplies, no stockpile. If supplies don't arrive they'd be screwed

I work in the community and we’ve had to fight for it.

We are nearly out of long sleeved gowns.

My trust is running out. Agree with PP - guidelines being adapted to what is available rather than what is appropriate. Meanwhile I’m awaiting my swab results as I have developed symptoms 🙄

Shared visors and the cheapest of surgical masks.

In our local hospital they are reusing visors (wiping them down), and a lot of wards told to wear thin plastic pinnies instead of gowns and thin paper masks. It’s not great.

There’s definitely a supply issue. I work in both ITU, were they are well protected and have everything they need. Excellent donning and doffing areas. However,
the covid positive wards were I’ve also been, are expected to wear just a thin plastic apron, surgical mask and gloves. You feel quite exposed. There might not be AGP’s going on but patients still coughing and the risk of infection is definitely still there.

Think there are definitely variations between trusts but PPE is an issue.

Of course they say that's in line with current phe guidelines but I'm pretty sure the guidance is that because of the lack of ppe.

^^This.

If you can afford it either be really selective or don't bother rejoining.