Fill your curiostea. TCD edition 💗

We got given a test kit for home use, so I’ll do it as soon as I come home. However obviously this isn’t always possible, so I’ll probably test myself every two to three days.

I’m basing this upon whenever I go work, I’ll test myself. Does that make sense?

Ahhh, that’s new information you just supplied. I didn’t know it was conducted like that, it makes sense yeah. Is it that lateral flow test you use or PCR?

PCR test.

Good, pcr has been proven more effective apparently. Lateral flow isn’t as effective according to BMJ, you have anything to comment about this?

Considering that the results of PCR is more accurate then LF, it does state that we can’t, do the PCR tests at home, which depends on the trusts itself. Our trust has given us a choice to take the PCR test at home, or in the hospital, and same with the LF.

I have however linked a site for your FAQ. 😊

Very helpful information, thanks!

Ahh, so you can’t conduct it at home but depends on the trust, and the circumstances in which you’re in, I understand.

It says you must test yourself twice a week, you’re doing a good job testing yourself whenever you go in.

You’re welcome 😊

Yes, I live with my elderly parents, so I’m being as cautious as I can. 😊

Good

Well, good luck for tomorrow!

Covid: Many NHS staff 'traumatised' by first wave of virus, study shows https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-55630157

Covid: Many NHS staff 'traumatised' by first wave of virus, study shows https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-55630157

How are you doing, TCD?

I'm doing great thank you for checking up on me, how are you Pathway?

Oh! That's good to hear.

I'm okay, hanging in there. Thanks for asking.

Wednesday 13th January 2021:- 8:40 pm

I will be briefly mentioning about CPAP/Bipap as I found this interesting when I was working in ACCU/ICU.

What is NIV?
NIV is a form of breathing support delivering air, normally with added oxygen, directly with a facemask by positive pressure, used in respiratory failure. The term NIV is often used interchangeably with the trade name BiPAP (Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure), which is the most commonly used machine in the UK.

In the acute setting, NIV is used in type 2 respiratory failure (for instance, in a COPD exacerbation), with respiratory acidosis (pH < 7.35).

What is CPAP?
CPAP supplies constant fixed positive pressure throughout inspiration and expiration. Therefore, it is not a form of ventilation, but splints the airways open. If delivered with oxygen, it can allow a higher degree of inspired oxygen than other oxygen masks. In the chronic setting, it is used for severe obstructive sleep apnoea (splinting the upper airway) and in the acute setting for type 1 respiratory failure, for instance, in acute pulmonary oedema (recruiting collapsed alveoli).

Only someone that is experienced in this field can set up a CPAP machine, it can also be requested by a medical professional if it is deemed fit that the patient will benefit from such in the long term.

CPAP
The following scenarios may be indications for CPAP (this is in the context of optimal medical management already being in place):

Summary
NIV (also known as BiPAP) and CPAP are used as breathing support delivered via a facemask for those in respiratory failure which has not responded to medical management. An ABG (blood gas) is required prior to starting, and for monitoring. . You are not expected to start NIV by yourself. A senior will always be involved in decision making.

NIV machines are not found in every ward, but are in respiratory high dependency bays, HDU and ICU. You can look this up on Youtube or google if you're interested.


That's just a brief introduction into what machinery are used in ICU. I haven't touched base upon the side effects or anything else, as I did not want to confuse you all.

Hey all,

After much thinking, and scattering all information in random threads, I thought I would create this ‘blog’ for all day to day runnings of the NHS.

Come and see what is happening at the hospital, ask as many questions as you want and fill your curiosity.

3 rules though:-

1.) Wash Hands
2.) Keep Distance
3.) Mask
4.) Stay home and protect the NHS.

Welcome and thank you! 😊

Mod note: We understand that there's a lot of uncertainty around currently, and we're all working to find the right information as quickly as possible. When posting, please be mindful to not share misinformation, not to present your own opinion as fact, not to give medical advice and please link to official sources (where possible). If you see a post you believe may be deliberately misleading, just hit the report button. Please be supportive of other students during this stressful time by limiting the spread of misinformation. Please check the government and NHS websites for the most up-to-date advice.