Portsmouth respiratory teams 'feel prepared' as plans put in place for patient increase

Physiotherapy respiratory clinical specialist Matthew Quint and ward manager of the E6 respiratory high care unit, Katrina James, are both on the frontline at Queen Alexandra Hospital in the battle against Covid-19, as it is a respiratory disease.

Matthew, who has been at QA for 20 years, said: ‘My area of expertise is supporting patients in respiratory failure with breathing machines that support the patient via masks.

‘I have spent a huge amount of time educating medical, nursing and therapy colleagues so we are ready to face the forthcoming workload. The team have got their heads down and looked to come up with solutions.’

Individuals and businesses have shown an outpouring of love for staff at the Cosham hospital with daily treats to show their thanks to the hard-working employees.

Matthew added: ‘The spontaneous food deliveries that have arrived on wards have been really appreciated and early hours shopping for NHS staff in supermarkets gives us one less thing to worry about.’

Katrina, who has also worked at QA for 20 years, is working with her team to increase hospital capacity.

She said: ‘My team are currently co-ordinating the speedy configuration of additional high care beds. We have sufficient equipment and staff feel adequately prepared for future escalations.

‘Morale is good and staff feel valued and supported.’

The pandemic has seen huge changes across the health system but Katrina says teamwork and public support has been key.

The 53-year-old said: ‘Teamwork continues to be our key priority and staff within respiratory have clear and regular communications as things change.

‘We recognise that communication is pivotal to our future success and grateful to the support from our matrons Natalie Raven and Krissie Arnott.

‘We have also been overwhelmed by the public support for our hospital; including donations of food and toiletries for staff. We were delighted to hear the clapping last week and the displays of support from our emergency services.’

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