Covid-19 update (20 October)

In the past 24 hours, we have seen one of our largest daily rises of admissions with patients having tested positive for Covid-19.

This means that at the time of writing (5.45pm on 19 October) we are caring for 131 individuals (104 at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, nine at Bassetlaw Hospital and 18 at Montagu).

With much sadness, today we have confirmed that a further 10 patients have passed away, with Covid-19 having played a role in the cause of death. We share our deepest sympathies with all of those affected.

In response to a few questions we have had raised throughout the past few days – Anyone who requires a hospital admission with us, by definition, has a serious illness or injury which is not manageable at home or in the community, or is being admitted to establish the cause of a potentially serious problem.

Patients who have a relevant pre-existing medical condition and being admitted as a result of this condition are at increased risk of developing a severe case of Covid-19, if they have contracted it. As diagnosis for this illness can take 24 to 72 hours to be confirmed (unless the test has been performed before admission) the result will come through after admission. As everyone would expect, anyone who is fit to be discharged will be to reduce the risks to them.

There is a misconception that Covid-19 only impacts the hospitals if intensive care is required, which isn’t quite right. The presence of Covid-19 within our hospitals means that we have to do things very differently than normal, from which areas patients are transported through, where they receive care, and what PPE colleagues have to wear. We also must try to ensure that the illness does not spread to those with us who are vulnerable. In short, it means everything takes a little longer and makes everything just that bit harder, regardless of the patient’s condition, and at a time when hospitals are traditionally much busier and resources more stretched.

We do not share this information with you to scare or frighten, but to give context to why we are asking for your help and support in adhering to guidance. A large proportion of our patients admitted and included in the numbers shared above are being cared for as a consequence of Covid-19, and those who aren’t but are still positive are still are at risk of further complications and require observation and treatment as a result (and for context, five patients require critical care, two mechanical ventilation, 10 non-invasive ventilation, and a further five oxygen).

As we have said many times, for many who are younger and have no underlying health concerns, this illness will not have much of an effect. However, it can be extremely serious for those who are more vulnerable. This is why we ask you to remember hands, face and space, and to live with this discomfort just a little while longer.

Thank you, continue to protect the vulnerable amongst us and help us flatten the curve – and remember, sunshine follows thunder – we will get through this together as a community