Responding to the Covid-19 Inquiry Module 5 report which found repeated failings in the procurement and distribution of PPE, RCN Professional Lead for Infection Prevention and Control throughout the pandemic, Rose Gallagher said:
“This report is a damning indictment of just how badly nursing staff were let down. The total failure to plan meant stockpiles of PPE were too low, while much of the equipment meant to protect our profession didn’t fit or work effectively. That so many staff were forced to repurpose shower caps, or wear bin bags in desperate attempts to protect themselves, should be marks of shame for the successive governments that left us so unprepared.
“When concerns were raised about protective equipment by those delivering care, they were regularly ignored and placed at terrible risk, with false assurances given from the highest level of government. Instead of providing fit-for-purpose guidance and equipment, ministers stood on doorsteps to clap.
"Despite this litany of government failures to prepare, nursing staff continued to show up for their patients knowing the very real risk to themselves and their families. We know so many died after being sent onto wards, into care homes and into the community with inadequate protection. Meanwhile, scores more continue to live with the long-term effects of Covid to this day. It is unforgivable.
“The colossal waste and inadequacies identified in this report must never happen again. The test as to whether government truly respects and values our profession lies in not just rapidly adopting the recommendations made by the inquiry, but investing in nursing. There will be another pandemic and government must prepare now or the consequences will be devastating.”
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