scholarly journals Call volume, triage outcomes, and protocols during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United Kingdom: Results of a national survey

Author(s):  
Helen Snooks ◽  
Alan John Watkins ◽  
Fiona Bell ◽  
Mike Brady ◽  
Andy Carson‐Stevens ◽  
...  

The daily observations of smoke and sulphur dioxide that have been taken over the past ten years at some 1200 sites throughout the United Kingdom for the National Survey of Air Pollution, have provided a great deal of information on pollution in towns. An examination of this material is made to assess changes that have been occurring in levels of pollution in relation to the changing pattern of fuel consumption, and is used in trying to forecast the position in the next 15 or 20 years. A comparison is also made between pollution in towns in different parts of the U.K. The question of what levels of pollution may be tolerated is also considered. The part that aerodynamicists, architects and town planners can play in reducing urban pollution is discussed and an attempt is made to see what guidance can be given to them so that as far as pollution is concerned, the new and renewed towns of the future may avoid the mistakes of the past and therefore not need the costly remedial measures that now have to be taken in towns built in the past.


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Babu Karavadra ◽  
Andrea Stockl ◽  
Edward Prosser-Snelling ◽  
Paul Simpson ◽  
Edward Morris

Abstract Background The aim of this national survey was to explore pregnant women’s perceptions of COVID-19 and their healthcare experiences. Methods Through patient and public involvement, a questionnaire was developed and advertised via the BBC website, Twitter and other online media during May 2020. The findings were analysed by qualitative thematic analysis. Women who are currently pregnant, or who have delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic were invited to partake in a national online survey. Results One thousand four hundred fifty-one participants replied to the online questionnaire. Participants provided significant insight into the perceived barriers to seeking healthcare during this pandemic. These include ‘not wanting to bother anyone’, ‘lack of wider support from allied healthcare workers’ and the influence of the media. Other concerns included the use of virtual clinics antenatally and their acceptability to patients, the presence of birthing partners, and the way in which information is communicated about rapidly changing and evolving services. The influence of the media has also had a significant impact on the way women perceive hospital care in light of COVID-19 and for some, this has shaped whether they would seek help. Conclusions This is the first ever reported study in the United Kingdom to explore pregnant women’s perceptions of COVID-19 and their subsequent healthcare experiences. It has also provided insight into perceived barriers into seeking care as well as maternal concerns antenatally, intrapartum and postpartum.


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