Adapting to a "new normal" with COVID-19 spreading but few societal constraints are something Victorians have rapidly come to accept.
"Normal" is a distant memory for Mildura Base Public Hospital personnel, especially Emergency Department Nurse Unit Manager Emma Gallagher.
She knows it's very nice that they're opening up; everything appears to be returning to how it was in the neighbourhood, and that's terrific.
However, the normal in the community and our normal at work are extremely different.
Extra safety standards, limits, exhaustion, and an increase in "severe" abuse from patients and relatives, according to Ms Gallagher, were all compounding what had been a rough 20 months in health care.
She said that most of the vitriol was directed at the hospital's rigorous guest policies.
Visitors were only permitted for end-of-life care or to accompany women who were giving birth, as advised by the Department of Health and Human Services.
Ms Gallagher said that, unfortunately, they take the brunt of a lot of people's angst.
It takes a lot of trust for someone to leave their loved ones. It's quite tough for them to go without their family and friends. It's been quite difficult, which is reasonable.
Some individuals are exceedingly patient. However, for some individuals, this is a tough notion to grasp.
Terry Welch, CEO of Mildura Hospital, said that the abuse had resulted in some very significant situations.
He stated that the employees don't need to be shouted at, have things thrown at them, be punched, or anything else.
They often have to call the cops - they have seven security guards on duty today to keep them safe.
Mr Welch described his employees as "great individuals" who were doing a "wonderful job" under challenging conditions. He just asks to respect it.
Staff in an emergency are also expected to wear complete safety equipment for their entire shifts, including gloves, goggles, gowns, and booties, which must be painstakingly removed each time they take a break.
Ms Gallagher said that it can be draining.
You depend a lot on the people around you and your team to be able to care for yourself.
Moreover, unlike COVID limits in the general population, tight hospital regulations look to be here to stay for the foreseeable future.
Ms Gallagher believes that the uncertainty over whether "normalcy" will return is leading to a widespread staffing shortage in hospitals throughout Australia.
Ms Gallagher explained that she believes COVID has really made individuals look back and consider, 'Is this what I want to pursue with my career in the long run?
No one expected us to be nursing a pandemic, not knowing what the future holds, and constantly worrying about maybe taking [the virus] back to your family. It's difficult. It really is.
Mr Welch said that his employees had already gone on a "huge adventure."
He stated that they can care for them and ensure their well-being. There is scarcity in the industry.
She added that she is obviously worried if COVID persists for a lengthy period of time – what that implies for staff, their well-being, and their attitude and dedication to nursing in general. It is a source of worry.
Ms Gallagher said that compassion and empathy will assist nurses and hospital workers cope with stress.
They're doing their best and putting themselves in danger to keep the community safe.
A little compassion and understanding from those that walk through the door goes a long way.
They adore the neighbourhood. They like what they do. That's absolutely what keeps them going.
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