The COVID-19 in Singapore is worsening every day with new cases being reported on the regular.
Clusters have formed despite the government implementing measures to limit group gatherings.
But when all is said and done, it’s the medical workers at the frontline who face the greatest risks. Despite their sacrifice, they have reportedly been ostracised and labelled less than sanitary when spotted on public transport.
Well, it’s time to let the public know once and for all that there is no need for such discrimination:
PSA for Kiasi People: Healthcare Workers Disinfect Thoroughly Before Leaving For Home Even Before Covid-19
SingHealth group chief nurse Tracy Carol Ayre has stepped forward to assure the public that nurses are required to follow strict hand hygiene guidelines and use protective equipment such as gowns, masks, gloves and eye protection.
Those who work in high-risk areas, on the other hand, are required to wear personal protective equipment and hospital-laundered scrubs instead of their uniforms.
“With these measures, the nursing uniform is much like any other work outfit we wear to work and is not ‘contaminated’.”
She also adds that the hospital and its equipment are sanitized and disinfected regularly and in line with the protocol.
Disinfection Routine
A medical worker, Dr Lim spoke to Asiaone and explains that they go through a disinfection routine before going home from the public hospital where she works.
This process includes using alcohol wipes to clean items like her phone, pen and name tag. She also washes her hands with surgical hand rub.
But if you think that this procedure began due to the COVID-19, think again.
These are standard operating procedures that began before the virus outbreak a month ago.
This came amidst news that healthcare workers are being ostracised by the public when they wear their uniforms to go home via public transport.
Rest assured that our medical professionals go through “rigorous training on infection control.”
Healthcare workers have also received advisories from the respective hospitals to change into every day civilian clothes before heading home.
“Our nurses are recognisable by their uniform, which they put on with pride to serve our patients.
“We hope that members of the public can treat them with kindness and appreciation. It will encourage and uplift them greatly.”
We hope that the next time you see a medical worker on public transport, remember that they are the heroes we need but don’t deserve. Shake their hand and thank them if you can.
