The 2019-2020 outbreak of Coronavirus, or COVID-19, is proving to have quicker transmissibility than SARS. With many school closures and increased burden on healthcare facilities, it’s important to educate yourself and be prepared.
Know the Facts About Coronavirus
The virus, which originated in Wuhan, China, been contracted by over 132,000 people and counting. The spread has slowed in China but is gaining speed in Europe and the US.
Symptoms of the virus can take up to 14 days to appear, and many have transmitted the virus with no symptoms present. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. [1]
It is important for healthcare providers not to mistake symptoms of wound infection for the Coronavirus or Influenza. Many people with diabetic ulcers or other chronic wounds may experience a fever, cough or cold prior to the wound becoming present.
Individuals with a suppressed immune system will need a more personalized care plan if they do contract a virus such as COVID-19.
A Coronavirus vaccine will likely take at least a year to develop and market. In the meantime, several countries including the US and China are running trials trying to find an antidote. The closest breakthrough is currently remdesivir, an experimental antiviral that was originally developed for Ebola. [2]
How Coronavirus is Impacting Healthcare
In addition to placing a strain on existing facilities, other secondary consequences result from the spread of COVID-19.
Extended school closures continue to affect the working parents in the healthcare profession. In some areas, these closures are leading to a shortage of nurses, doctors, and admin staff when they are needed most. Many cannot perform their jobs from home, making flexible working arrangements nearly obsolete.
Aside from school closures, uninsured patients are facing a risky situation. Those without health insurance can be facing serious medical bills if they contract COVID-19. A ten day hopsital stay can cost upwards of $75,000, and even a simple test for the virus can run $500-$1,000 for someone without insurance help.
Mental health is another secondary consequence often overlooked. While physical signs may be more obvious, is important not to overlook the mental signs. Even people without symptoms of COVID-19 can become overwhelmed by the stress, media sensationalizations, routine disruptions and the sheer unknowns.
Continuing Daily Life Amidst COVID-19
Many of us will have to find “new normals” as we adjust to precautions surrounding this rapidly spreading virus. With increased school and work closures, communication is key. In additon to communication, basic preventative measures must be taken, including washing your hands, sanitizing surfaces, and avoiding sharing utensils or drinkware.
Luckily for our students, WoundEducators courses are always 100% online. Unlike other schools who have had to cancel classes or postpone graduations, our students can continue their coursework virtually uninterupted. Our 24/7 access allows students to complete their wound certification training from anywhere they can.
The Silver Lining for Healthcare
The outbreak of Coronavirus has allowed new healthcare workers to gain more experience in the field. It has also led others to take a deeper interest in healthcare and wound management.
If you are one of those people who are interested in becoming wound certified, contact us and we can help you get started.
Stay safe!
Resources:
[1] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/about/share-facts.html
[2] https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/coronavirus-remdesivir-gilead-antiviral-drug-covid-19/573261/
[3] https://www.nursingtimes.net/news/coronavirus/concern-over-impact-on-nurses-if-schools-close-due-to-covid-19-12-03-2020/
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