Hello All,
my name is Amy O Callaghan and I recently started working in the Powdermill Nursing home as a healthcare assistant. I have not worked in this department before but I am really enjoying it. I live in Inniscarra with my family. I am the oldest child in my family and I have a younger brother named Cian. I only recently finished my leaving certificate and I was a student in Gaelcolaiste Choilm in Ballincollig. I also attended Gaelscoil Ui Riordain for 8 years prior to this so I have 14 years of education through irish and I am fully fluent Irish speaker. I have recently started studying law in UCC and I am loving my legal education so far. I am in college throughout the week and I am working part time at the weekends to help fund my education. Even though I am only here a short time I have already become so fond of the residents and I am really looking forward to getting to know everyone better as I continue to work here.
Amy O Callaghan- Healthcare Assistant
As the temperature starts to decrease and Winter is upon us we have to guard and protect ourselves and the vulnerable adults who are dependent on our care with the illnesses that usually comes along with the season.
Influenza (flu) is a serious contagious viral infection that spreads every winter. Flu can cause a more serious illness or complications that can be life threatening. It was said in the HSE flu information leaflet, that 200-500 people in Ireland die from flu and thousands seek hospital admission.
Flu virus is spread by coughing and sneezing. It can also be spread by touching the surface or object that has flu virus on it and then by touching your nose and mouth with your unwashed hands. The best way to get protected from the flu virus is getting yourself vaccinated before the flu season begins.
I am glad to report that on the 13th October all of the residents have received their booster vaccine for Covid and the flu vaccine. We must commend the residents for their willingness to be vaccinated and protected from these illnesses. For visitors and staff you will need to liaise with your own G.P. to receive your vaccines.
As I did last month it is still no harm to repeat here that everyone needs to be aware of the winter vomiting bug (Norovirus). If you have had any contact with the virus or have been vomiting please do not visit the centre for at least 48 hours after the last episode of vomiting.
We greatly appreciate your unending cooperation and understanding in following the Infection Prevention and Control guidelines in the centre. We continue to encourage you to inform the centre prior to visiting your relative. We encourage you as well not to visit the centre if you have flu like symptoms. Temperature checking and wearing of mask is still ongoing and most importantly you should not miss out washing your hands or using the hand gels provided when you come to visit your relative in the nursing home.
The line in the nursing home is always open for all of ye if you have any clarifications or suggestions. Lastly thank all our residents and visitors for continuing to take precautions with visits. Ye have been wonderful. Take a bow.
Let us continue to safeguard our loved ones.
Aileen Genodifa Clinical Nurse Manager