Introduction
In these challenging times the SCoR and BMUS realise that sonographers are having to deal with managing the demands of providing a high quality service whilst protecting staff and patients, possibly with limited staffing and concerned patients. This frequently asked questions document aims to help provide answers, where possible, or guide sonographers to relevant sources of current information. The information is changing on at least a daily basis, so it is important to review advice from Public Health England and other relevant bodies.
It is important to realise that the current information regarding COVID-19 is extremely fluid, changing as the situation demands. It is therefore crucial to follow the advice individual trusts and employers are releasing as this is pertinent to the local situation and will be in line with government advice. This page is based on national guidance at the time of writing. In the September update information is provided for historical context and for use in the advent of local peaks or changes to national advice. Any changes must be undertaken with meaningful risk assessment with the staff involved, taking into account local factors, facilities and staff concerns and should not be imposed on ultrasound departments without a risk assessment. Please get advice and support from your SoR local trade union and industrial relations or health and safety representatives if advice is needed.
The SCoR has general advice on this website. This includes information about protecting staff and patients in cases of suspected /infected patient contact and service resilience measures needed to ensure the continuity of service, wherever possible. The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) have resources on their website, including the document “How we will continue to regulate in light of novel coronavirus (COVID-19)”.
NHS England and NHS Improvement are co-ordinating information about COVID-19 for health care professionals.