It’s hard, if not impossible, to breathe easy in a time of COVID-19. Danger is lurking around the corner and anyone can become infected. When it comes down to infectious disease outbreaks, all cities are equal. Municipalities from all over the world are struggling to cope with the realities associated with the coronavirus health emergency. As a matter of fact, many say that cities are the source of the problem, contributing to the spread of the perilous infectious disease through tight human contact.
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Non-life-sustaining businesses have been temporarily shut down and people are allowed to go only to the grocery store and the pharmacy. Public officials, as well as health experts are urging people to stay indoors to flatten the novel coronavirus curve. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recently announced that a second patient has passed away in Pittsburgh at the VA Medical Center in Oakland. The COVID-19 virus, which must have been transmitted by an asymptomatic employee, has made a patient sick. Unfortunately, the VA staff discovered this too late.
According to the VA’s national database, more than 26 patients have tested positive for the novel coronavirus at the facility located in Pittsburgh. COVID-19 has taken its toll, triggering devastating effects all over the country. Ceasing to practice social distancing is out of the question, at least, for the time being. The state of Pennsylvania will continue to remain under a stay-at-home order. Those going out for essentials have to wear a mask.
Should patients be allowed to roam around?
Considering that we aren’t living a “normal” life, patients shouldn’t be allowed to move freely within the hospital. This is reckless behavior. People could already have the novel coronavirus and not show any symptoms. Everyone that comes into contact with these people risks succumbing to illness. Hospitals should make sure that their facilities are accessible and safe for patients, but not at the risk of putting their lives in danger. Patients can spread the contagion to others, which is why the idea of restraint comes to mind.
Restraints are necessary for emergencies and this does count as an emergency. The latest case perfectly illustrates the fact that the novel coronavirus is sneaky in the way it spreads to others. In spite of the fact that VA Pittsburgh reports fewer cases as compared to others, it’s not possible to talk about a flattening of the curve for the time being. Health care providers should carefully prepare their defenses during the global pandemic. COVID-19 can infect patients, as well as health care workers. It doesn’t discriminate.
Donald E. Koenig, the current director of VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, declared that the physicians working in the behavioral health unit immediately responded following the first confirmed case of infection. We’re told that patients have been tested on a regular basis and closely monitored to see if they present symptoms of the novel coronavirus, such as fever, cough, nasal congestion, and so on. Until now, no physical restraints have been imposed, meaning that patients have the freedom to do what they like.
Perhaps it’s time for a change. It’s clear that things can’t continue like now for a long time. Given the risk of contracting COVID-19, drastic measures need to be taken. Patients should understand that the restrictions on individual liberties are for their own good. The novel coronavirus is an unforeseen thing and patients shouldn’t be granted too much liberty of movement. If measures aren’t taken now, the number of infections and deaths could surely increase.
The novel coronavirus exposes core flaws and few strengths
As the COVID-19 virus continues to spread in America, the medical system has suddenly become active, springing into action at a time of need. The pandemic isn’t easy to deal with, but the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System somehow manages to effectively respond to emergencies. In spite of years of underfunding and numerous attempts of privatization, the health care system succeeds in handling unfortunate situations and, most importantly, has the expertise to do so.
The size of the network run by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is quite impressive, but it makes it that more difficult to contain the virus and protect the vulnerable population. The health crisis continues to unfold and everyone needs to expand its mission and become prepared for the worst of scenarios. Many are of the opinion that the global pandemic has brought to light the strengths, not to mention the vulnerabilities of VA Pittsburgh. In any case, the vulnerable population must be treated while continuing the fight against the novel coronavirus.
In these times of crisis, everyone is doing their best. According to Organic CBD Nugs, every major company is making its contribution during the coronavirus outbreak, producing and donating hand sanitizers. What is more, they’re donating part of their profits to nonprofit organizations. As far as cannabidiol is concerned, an Israeli hospital is currently testing its ability to fight COVID-19. Whether or not it’s of any use, we’ll find out in future time.
Getting back on topic the coronavirus outbreak exposes the vulnerabilities in the health care system. And we’re not talking only about the VA. It seems that the novel coronavirus has taken the overall health system by surprise. The infectious disease outbreak, which has spread to six continents, is putting a great deal of pressure on the medical system in each state that is required to stock up on personal protective gear and invest in new life-support machines.
It’s paramount to adjust to the new situation and make arrangements for those who can’t get access to medical care. The good news is that President Donald Trump recently signed the federal stimulus bill which will offer more aid for hospitals. For the time being, we don’t know when the money will come in, but it will be soon enough. Health care facilities will be able to purchase much-needed medical supplies and make improvements to the telehealth network. No matter what happens, there is a guarantee that people won’t suffer unnecessarily.
