SRINAGAR July 19: As administration confronts with shortage of beds and staff in hospitals amid COVID-19, government has decided to hire nurses for various district hospitals of Kashmir to strengthen the manpower in healthcare institutions. There has been a sudden rise in the coronavirus cases for the last few weeks and hospitals are not able to accommodate all these patients. Administration has put concerned authorities on alert that there may be need for more hospitals for COVID-19 patients. “Various hospitals in districts and hotels are under consideration to be designated for COVID-19 patients,” an official told news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS). As COVID-19 cases are on the rise, administration has decided to hire additional contractual manpower with over 160 nurses under NHM in four district hospitals- Kulgam, Ganderbal, Shopian and Sopore. Director Health Service Kashmir has written a letter to CMOs, a copy of which lies with news agency KINS says, “You are advised to initiate process for hiring (Staff Nurses) under NHM in district hospitals applying for DNB Courses on fast track basis at an earliest: DH Kulgam (42), DH Ganderbal (42)DH Shopian (21) CHC Sopore (42). The hiring of the registered GNM Nurses shall be done against the vacant posts under NHM as per permissibility of 2020-21 and the financial guidelines /norms of NHM.” Hospitals are flooded with patients in Kashmir. The government in its advisory says the best way to protect themselves from COVID-19 is by maintaining physical distance of at least 2 metre from others, frequently cleaning hands with an alcohol based hand sanitizer or washing them with soap and water and following good respiratory etiquette and hygiene. As a measure for social distancing in public places and workplaces wearing a face cover is compulsory. It says early detection of COVID-19 can prevent the spread of disease so we need to be responsible for the well-being of ourselves and everyone around us. “Not disclosing symptoms could put the life of individuals and their families at risk. In case of symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty in breathing report early. Do not fear, call COVID-19 helpline numbers and seek medical advice.” Advisory has further exhorted upon the people not to step out of home, unless absolutely necessary.(KINS)
