23 Apr Covid Vaccinations: Helping the National Effort
Senior Physiotherapist at Halo, Nicki Bradshaw talks about her experience of joining the national effort to vaccinate the general public against Covid-19
When I first saw the NHS appealing for health care professionals to sign up as Covid vaccinators back in November, I immediately registered my interest.
Having performed corticosteroid injections in soft tissues and joints, in a previous Specialist Physio role in the NHS, I saw it as an opportunity to use those skills again.
After studying many modules of online learning during December, I completed my induction and practical training at the Stoneleigh mass vaccination centre. At the end of March, I completed my training shift and performed my first thirty vaccinations!
My role entails drawing up the correct dosage of vaccine, administering it, discussing after care and addressing any queries or concerns the member of the public may have. Understandably, some people attend their appointment apprehensively, but so far all have left feeling reassured and grateful.
I work in a pod comprising of a Vaccinator, a Supervisor (who is a senior nurse who overseas any clinical queries and checks each person’s relevant medical history), and an Administrator. More senior clinical staff oversee the running of the shift and stock levels – including careful management of the storage of the vaccines. A technical team are also on hand to ensure all computer systems are operating smoothly for patient data collection. On top of this, many volunteers welcome the public to the site, check people in and ensure eligibility to attend the appointment. An army of St John’s ambulance volunteers monitor people post vaccination and again offer reassurance.
During my first shift, I was struck by the fantastic team spirit, positive atmosphere, and all-round camaraderie. The organisation that must go on behind the scenes is phenomenal!
It’s great to be part of the national effort!
Nicki
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