Primary Locums Nursing COVID 19 Survey
We have carried out a survey to determine what effect of the COVID 19 pandemic has had on our nurses.
The COVID 19 pandemic had unsurprisingly raised the anxiety levels of our nurses (82.25% higher than normal). The pandemic and the postponement of some clinics has resulted in the adoption of new working practices, in addition to allowing time to reflect and complete further CPD. The most significant change seems to have been the reduction in f2f contact replaced by telephone and video consultations, a new experience and a new skill acquired by our nurses, they believe that they will continue with telephone/ video consultations post the current situation, to the benefit of both patients and the practice. It is anticipated that the second half of 2020 will be busier than the first half.
Our nurses have felt well supported by their own practices and by Primary Locums, which has been positive. Primary Locums were also sited as providing better guidance and support during the pandemic than other nursing agencies, that a proportion of our nurses also work for. “Primary locums remain ready to support practices and their staff in these testing times”.
All told this pandemic, although resulting in raised anxieties, has also seen benefits to patients and practices that will be taken forward. On a personal note we, Primary Locums, are reassured that we have provided some help and support during this difficult time.