You haven’t experienced anything like COVID-19 in your lifetime; we haven’t, either. Communication is always important, but it’s especially important as we get through this crisis together. We know this is new for everyone, so we have some tips that might help.
Overcommunicate in Uncertain Times
Unexpected problems can pop up during a regular shift during a regular day. They can pop up even more now. If you’re not sure how to handle a situation, ask. Whether it’s a question for an on-site supervisor or a question for us, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Always remember to be honest, respectful, and positive. We’re all in this together, and we can help each other.
If your question is not urgent, it may be helpful to use email. It leaves a paper trail, allows the person time to look up relevant information, and eliminates annoying games of phone tag. In addition, it allows you to organize your thoughts, and it gives you the opportunity to lay things out in a way that’s logical to you.
Stay Safe
Safety is always a priority, and it’s important to take all necessary precautions during COVID-19. When you receive an assignment, we’ll share any inside information about the working environment. Please make that a two-way street: share any information with us. That helps us to keep you safe and provides us with valuable information regarding any future placements there.
If things are going well, we want to hear it; if things aren’t going well, we want to hear that, too. Do you have what you need? Are the necessary protocols in place to ensure that you’re staying safe? We take your safety seriously; situations are evolving quickly in hospitals throughout the United States, and we want to ensure that you’re safe every step of the way.
Be Reassured
There might be moments in the day that feel overwhelming. Sometimes, an entire shift might feel overwhelming. Don’t struggle alone. Communicate with people around you. Some hospitals have on-site or on-call chaplains; take advantage of them. Don’t be afraid to talk to coworkers about how you’re feeling. Talking to people who understand can help.
If you have questions, turn to trusted sources, such as the hospital or the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), for guidance. The CDC website has a special section about COVID-19; it includes a question and answer section, and the CDC is updating it to reflect current issues.
We’re Here to Support You
At 365 Healthcare Staffing Services, we specialize in the recruitment and placement of healthcare professionals in per diem, travel, and permanent assignments in healthcare facilities across the country. We’re always here, and it’s especially important to keep the lines of communication open during this crisis. We’re at 310.436.3650, and we’re ready to help.
