11 CARE HOME DEATHS ARE LIKE NOTHING WE’VE SEEN BEFORE Fears for 13 more residents as they show virus symptoms
EXCLUSIVE: STAFF REVEAL HEARTBREAK AND HORROR OF COVID-19
coronavirus is like nothing they have ever experienced.
Workers at Elderslie Care Home, in Fulbar
Road, have spoken of the tragic impact of the deadly virus.
Earlier this week, the Express revealed that Covid-19 had claimed the life of one resident there.
Now, health chiefs at the care home have confirmed a total of 11 people have died so far after showing symptoms consistent with Covid- 19 since the beginning of April.
A further 13 residents are now displaying symptoms associated with the virus.
None of the 13 residents have so far been tested for the deadly bug, but it’s expected they will be tested soon.
One staff member, who asked not to be identified, said staff are heartbroken at the impact it is having on residents.
Speaking exclusively to the Express, they said: “It is like nothing I have ever experienced in my job before.
“It is just horrendous.
“I have never seen something affect so many people so quickly.
“I know they say that one person has been confirmed as having had it, but it is far worse than that. It’s awful to see people going through it and so many people are dying.
“We are all just trying to help people as best as we can.
“But it is far worse than anyone thought it would be.”
Staff inside the facility, which is operated by Advinia Health Care, are now following strict infection control protocols as provided by Health Protection Scotland.
The staff member said teams within the homes are adhering to the strict rules, with workers being limited to certain units and areas of the home to prevent the spread of illness.
They explained: “It is really scary, but we are all doing the best we can.
“There are areas you can’t go into and we all have PPE, which we are changing regularly to ensure there is no contamination.
“The teams in the units are amazing, but it is just tragic what this virus is doing.”
Figures released yesterday revealed a total of 237 people have died in care homes from coronavirus in Scotland.
In a statement, Elderslie Care Home confirmed the deaths, and said it is following strict infection control protocols to protect its 106 residents.
A spokesman said: “We are greatly saddened to confirm that in the 14 days since the beginning of April, 11 residents have fallen ill and subsequently passed away with symptoms consistent with coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
“Every death is a great loss and our most sincere condolences go to each resident’s family and friends – they are all in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
“Sadly, like hundreds of care homes across the country, we are now seeing an increase in cases of Covid-19 as the virus reaches its peak.
“As of yesterday, there are currently 13 residents in the home who are displaying symptoms consistent with the virus and they are being barrier nursed by our dedicated and compassionate teams.
“None of these residents has been confirmed as having the virus.
“We are following strict infection control protocols as provided by Health Protection Scotland.
“This is in addition to our own existing infection control measures including proper handwashing techniques, additional training for staff and the provision of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, as required.
“Our highest priority now is the safety and wellbeing of the 106 residents who have made Elderslie their home and also that of our selfless staff, who are working tirelessly to help some of the most vulnerable members of our community.
“Once again, we send our deepest condolences to the families who have lost someone dear to them – we are grieving with you.”
Tom Arthur MSP spoke out about the deaths at the Paisley facility.
The SNP politician sent his condolences to loved ones of those who have died.
He said: “This is extremely sad news to hear that so many residents have passed away from this devastating virus.
“My deepest condolences go out to the families of those who have died, their friends and loved ones, and to the staff at Elderslie who form such close bonds with those they care for.
All residents of Renfrewshire care homes who show symptoms of coronavirus will now be tested.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon made the announcement yesterday, meaning the 13 residents at Elderslie Care Home who are also showing symptoms of the virus will now be tested for Covid-19.
The home is one of 433 across Scotland that has recorded cases of coronavirus.
Ms Sturgeon said while the move is “not strictly necessary” for “the clinical management of cases in care homes”, it is important for the confidence of relatives, care home staff and the wider public.