Glynis Schultz A/Executive Director Community and Oral Health

As we begin another week, a word that keeps coming to mind is ‘endurance’.

This is a term we need to focus on as we head into the third year of this pandemic and knowing that we still have a lot ahead of us and that our resilience and commitment will continue to be tested.

We are all experiencing different challenges across our working, social and family lives.

It remains important that staff continue to focus on the important things and the next simple step or milestone as we work toward better days.

I am always proud of the way that our staff stand tall. Our planning over the past few years and more recently in the past few months has left us in a good position.

Our systems, processes and models of care, in combination with our staff’s commitment to our services are helping us stand up to the demand and challenges.

Again, I say to you all — well done and thank you. Our priority is to keep you, your peers, and our patients safe during the weeks and months ahead.

Staff wellbeing

There are some useful wellness vidcasts that I would like to share. These are being run by the Metro North Culture and Wellbeing team on how we can support ourselves, each other, and our community by building a culture of resilience.

These sessions and many more tips and resources are listed on the wellbeing extranet.

Locally, we are exploring wellness options on how we can support you a lot better. I will keep you updated on developments.

Fit checking at the start of a shift

In the interest of keeping everyone safe, I have asked that line managers ensure that all staff at the beginning of their shifts are being observed when donning their masks to ensure a good seal for fit tested staff as per the National Guidelines.

This process won’t be difficult, just a simple precaution and a second eye to ensure masks are being safely applied to protect each other.

If you haven’t been Fit Tested please call 0487 537 524 to book an appointment.

If line managers and staff have an urgent need please call the number and we will work to arrange testing as a priority.

PCR versus RAT tests

To clarify any misconceptions or questions you have about when to get a PCR test or use a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT).

Simple rules apply: If you are a close contact of a positive COVID-19 case you should do a RAT. If you are experiencing symptoms staff will need to get a PCR test. Staff (and accompanied family member) PCR testing are available from:

• TPCH located in Outpatients B (former Children’s Outpatients Department): 7 days, 7.00am to 2.00pm (public fever clinic open 8.30am to 4.00pm, 7 days)
• Caboolture Hospital staff carpark: 7 days, 7.30am to 3.30pm (the staff car park is open for all Metro North staff accessing the clinic)
• RBWH Education Centre, Central Drive: 9.00am – 4.15pm, Mon to Fri and 9.00am – 3.45pm Sat and Sun.

Quote to ponder

Gautama Buddha said: “Endurance is one of the most difficult disciplines, but it is to the one who endures that the final victory comes.” 

Glynis Schultz
A/Executive Director
Community and Oral Health