Diary of a frontline NHS worker – and Horton and Garton tenant
We’ve recently adopted new business procedures to keep our clients and staff safe. One keyworker that knows all about the importance of protecting his patients and himself is NHS trainee and Horton and Garton tenant Haseeb Quraishi
Last week the Government allowed UK estate agents to reopen offices and safely restart viewings.
With our updated Covid-19 policy and a ready supply of masks, gloves and other PPE, we’re fortunate that we can continue to serve our customers without putting our staff (or clients) at risk.
Unfortunately, this cannot be said for every industry as thousands of frontline workers put their lives at risk when they go to work to serve the public.
Horton and Garton tenant Haseeb Quraishi is one such key worker. He’s rented one of our managed homes in East Acton for more than a year while working as a trainee at Hillingdon Hospital. After contracting coronavirus last month, Haseeb has seen the effects of Covid-19 firsthand.
When did you first start noticing a change in patients being admitted?
About one month ago, we noticed an increase in people presenting with the same issue. Then, I remember in the space of a weekend that there were a lot of changes in how departments were being run in terms of infection control. For example, having staff tested for mask fittings and having designated areas for PPE to be put on and taken off.
Did this immediately impact your work?
Although I am personally not working in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), I saw how the increased numbers of patients requiring intubation and higher levels of support was putting pressure on the ICU and it’s staff members.
Across the hospital there has been in increase in the number of coronavirus patients. Although we are now seeing less volume of patients presenting to the hospital, we are seeing those with severe illness. Many times, this is coronavirus related and many times not, as we do still expect to see the normal life and/or limb threatening emergencies such as heart attacks and strokes.
I completely understand the fears and anxieties surrounding coronavirus, but it is important for the general public to know that if they require assistance for serious illnesses and injuries to seek urgent medical attention or call 999. If you feel genuinely unwell or sick, the NHS and staff will be there to help you.
How did your hospital adapt to this increased pressure?
In order to cope with the anticipated increased demand, doctors have also been rotated to work in acute medical wards and departments. There are now more doctors working in the hospital at any one time, and this has helped with coping with the increased pressure that the coronavirus has brought.
What have been your biggest concerns during the coronavirus pandemic?
The main worry I have personally is passing the virus on to my family, friends and colleagues at work. I developed symptoms, mainly fevers and muscle aches, and subsequently tested positive for the virus. I’m now nearing the end of my self-isolation period and looking forward to returning to work.
Working in higher risk environments where the use of higher flow oxygen is being used to treat patients is another concern. I have been fortunate that mostly appropriate PPE has been provided, although I am aware this has not always been the case across other hospitals and regions. I completely understand the anxiety and concerns of staff when PPE is not adequate, and this is always a concern for me.
How has the community spirit been in East Acton?
The neighbourhood has been very pleasant. I’m lucky to have a communal garden and park outside, which in this warm weather has provided an outlet to rest and recover. The neighbours have also been very supportive and understanding of the wider lockdown rules. It’s amazing to see and hear the support of the public during the weekly Clap for Carers.
Do you have any messages you’d like to pass on to the general public?
I’d like to thank everyone who is following the national guidance regarding staying at home and social distancing. After having spent more than a week at home after contracting the virus, I completely empathise with the wider public having to spend large amounts of time indoors. I’m also grateful for those members of the public who are continuing to work and providing essential services such as in the supermarkets, pharmacists and community volunteers.
It’s really important to maintain social distancing, and at the same time, as previously mentioned, if one is concerned that they are having symptoms of a serious illness to seek urgent medical attention.
If you or a member of your family is presenting symptoms of the virus, visit the NHS 111 online Coronavirus service.
Read our new Covid-19 policy or for more details contact Horton and Garton Branch Manager Ashley Clements.
