#𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙤𝘾𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙎𝙂: 𝙅𝙤𝙮 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥𝙨, 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙙 𝘾𝙊𝙑𝙄𝘿-19
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“I felt a mix of emotions – excitement and apprehension – when I learnt I would be on the front line of the nation’s battle against COVID-19. I was excited as this was a new learning opportunity! At the same time, I was worried, not just for myself but for my loved ones. I live with a big family, so concerns for their well-being weighed heavily on my mind.
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To protect my family, I practise good hygiene habits. As soon as I reach home, I wash up and place my uniform into the washing machine. Visiting my father, which was once a common routine, has been put on hold for the time being. Fortunately, my sisters have been very understanding during this period, and offered to help with some of the caregiving responsibilities.
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At work, things are drastically different. The polyclinic is now divided into two areas: The Green zone and the Red zone, which handles patients exhibiting any respiratory symptoms. Whenever we enter this zone, we wear additional protective gear. It can be uncomfortable but I have got used to it.
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My role as a Patient Care Assistant involves assisting patients with registration, taking their vital signs (e.g. blood pressure, height and weight) and helping doctors with translation during consultations. Although the job is risky, it never crossed my mind to give up.
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I recall an incident when an anxious lady walked into the polyclinic and insisted on getting tested, fearing that she caught the infection by a chance encounter with a COVID-19 patient. However, she was not exhibiting any symptoms. Sensing her concern, I reassured her and advised her to monitor her health at home for the time being. She subsequently calmed down and headed home.
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Learning, especially during a pandemic, may be challenging as we have to adapt and react swiftly. But there is always something new to learn, and that is what keeps me going.
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– Karen Teo, Patient Care Assistant, Choa Chu Kang Polyclinic
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#couragetocaresg #caretogobeyond
