Inquiry Board conducted a field inspection.

April 25, 2020(HOPR):- State of Emergency Inquiry Board has conducted a field inspection of self-contained rooms and #COVID-19 positive patientsin EkaKotebe.

Chairperson of the board honourable PeterosWoldesenbet said, the field observation is intended to discuss on infection prevention and control (IPC) strategies with medical professionals.

 In an effort to reduce the burden and prevent shortages of medical supplies,healthcare facilities,medical procedures and resources inspection is vital.  “There can be no doubt that the COVID-19 pandemic is putting unprecedented strain on the healthcare systems in Ethiopia and abroad” he added.

Asked about the report, honourable Peteros  said the board had taken note of a certain number of elements presented by D.rNatnaelBekuretsion, Medical Director of the facility andwould give it careful consideration, in particular at a meeting with stakeholders advisory panel.

He said the facility has undertaken activities to prevent and control the epidemic before it goes into operation and provide training to paramedics and support staff.

As of March 13, 2020, 450 infected and suspected patients have entered the facility and 73 patients have been confirmed. So far, 3 patients have lost their lives, the director said, adding that they will work with extreme caution to reduce the number of deaths in the future.

As the COVID-19 outbreak continues healthcare workers are still going to work to try to stem the spread of the virus. According to D.rNatnael, the essence of their professionalism is that they put the interests of patients and the public before their own.

He said there are problems with water, electric power, transportation shortages and delays in laboratory results, despite the fact the purchase of essential medicines for patients, personal protective gear for healthcare workers, testing supplies, and local initiatives that aim to raise awareness and engage communities on the risk of COVID-19 are done.

Because medical professionals are working at risk, they have asked the board to provide them with the benefits and support that would enable them to self-serve in life-saving efforts on the ground.

Members of the board raised various questions for health professionals, and how many people does the facility have the capacity to accommodate? Do you have any complaints from local neighbours regarding the availability of the facility in the community?

Health professionals said that it has the capacity to accommodate 700-800 patients, and that it has been able to evacuate neighbours in connection with its presence and that the problems are being solved by continual negotiations with the neighbourhood.

Health professionals show gratitude members of the board for coming to the treatment facility and urge them for their continual visit.

Honourable PeterosWoldesenbet said, “Right now, our healthcare workers are on the frontlines of battling COVID-19. They are putting themselves in the path of this virus — in this facility — in this unprecedented crisis.”

 “Thank you — from everyone at this facility centre — for the sacrifices you make, every day and especially during this pandemic. Your dedication, commitment and courage deserve our deepest gratitude and admiration. Your service to patients is saving countless lives and making thousands of differences.”

Health workers are at the front line of the COVID-19 outbreak response and as such are exposed to hazards that put them at risk of infection. Hazards include pathogen exposure, long working hours, psychological distress, fatigue and occupational burnout. The board is ready forspecific measures needed to protect occupational safety and health.

By YaredEshetu

House Interpreter