Postby b33fy » Sun Mar 22, 2020 6:39 pm
Not here to take sides and feed an online debate, this isn’t the time for all that. Just trying to add some balance to polarising opinions being posted on here. Whilst I Agree with Nelmo on the validity of Dr Jack, though after first thoughts I believe he’s for real.
Unfortunately NHS staff are discouraged from speaking out unilaterally, just look at the recent whistle blowing case where handwriting samples were analysed. There are whistle blowing, communication and use of social media policies, if breached means end of career. Though a few like Dr Jack take the chance through frustration, anger upset or downright injustice. Anominity is used along with pseudo names hence Dr Jack.
I’m bound by the same policies as ‘Dr Jack’ so avoid any work related social media posts, even ones such as “Sh1t day at work, time to get bladdered” type posts. So the following is as much as I’m (not that) comfortable posting on here.
I believe he’s genuine because of the language he used and his picture of the London situation is very reflective of the current situation, particularly immediate shortages of PPE, which are being addressed currently.
I was heavily involved with the H1N1 swine flu pandemic with emergency planning and infection control. We got lucky as it was a variant of an existing strain of H1N1 so there was immunity within the high risk groups who had been around long enough to be exposed to it. It now circulates along with all seasonal flu bugs No such luck this time around, with no immunity and it being more contagious (easier to pass on).
There are definitely parallel worlds out there currently, as Dr Jack described. Thankfully I’m less involved than previously, though there are emergency/business continuity plans activated with confirmed coronavirus cases increasing on the wards. There are plans to increase capacity by utilising the private sector and setting up temporary units, converting warehouses etc. Increasing PPE is also a priority along with ensuring there is enough staff. Staff are pooping themselves, I’ve had emails and conversations from senior staff stating this, though showing strong leadership and carrying on regardless.
Then there are some of the parallels where coronavirus isn’t yet a reality as described by some in this post, unfortunately if and when it does become a reality for the majority, the damage will be done.
On a personal note, I’ll have to go back to the front line when staffing gets critical and have already made arrangements to do so. SWMBO is also a qualified general nurse, working on the frontline at Pembury and along with an elderly mother and a sister who has had cancer treatment, I’m pretty anxious about it and also likely to be personally affected by it. though if we fall apart, ignore it or don’t all do our bit, it will be a lot worse.
I’ll leave this thread to those that want to continue the conversation as I don’t feel I can currently contribute any further in a constructive way.
Cheers.
Power.. small nail, fast hammer, Torque.. small nail, big hammer.. I got a big hammer