Returning to work at Level 2 – what do we need to know?

1, Acupuncture NZ members must put a message onto the clinic website, electronic bookings diary, noticeboard or front door of the clinic that any patient who has been in recent contact with anyone who has tested positive to Covid-19 within the last 14 days or who has any signs or symptoms of a cold or flu must not come into the clinic. They need to contact their GP and arrange to be tested as soon as possible. There is a template message at the bottom of this email that you can copy and paste.

2, Appointments need to be scheduled so that time in the waiting area or reception is minimised. Think about leaving a 5-10 minute space between the end of one appointment and the beginning of the next so that your patients don’t have to cross paths.

3, Arrange seating in the waiting area so that there is at least a metre between each seat.

Remove any magazines, toys or ornamental things from the waiting rooms and treatment rooms so that all surfaces can remain as clear as possible and are easy to wipe down.

4, Use alcohol swabs to wipe down the eftpos machine after each patient has used it if you don’t have paywave. Consider not accepting cash payment.

5, Wipe down all surfaces with at least 70% alcohol regualrly throughout the day, paying particular attention to door handles, arms of chairs, bathroom taps and the press button on the toilet. Clean the toilet throughout the day rather than only at the beginning and end of the day.

6, We are health professionals. Whilst there is still debate about the general public wearing face masks when they are out and about, it is the strong recommendation of the Acupuncture NZ Council that all AcNZ members wear a mask whilst treating patients. A list of suppliers has been posted to the website and by Tuesday we should also know if masks can be made available at cost to members from the AcNZ office. More to come on this as soon as possible. You may wish to also have masks to offer your patients if they do not arrive with their own.

7,Even with the notices in place, when taking the history of each patient, include asking about travel, contact with others who have tested positive to Covid-19 or any signs of a cold or flu.This must be recorded in the notes.

8, Decide if you wish to use paper sheeting for the treatment tables which can be changed after every patient or if you would rather use cotton or microfleece sheeting that must also be changed but can be hot washed and dried easily. Bleach needs to be included in the wash if you take this option.

9, Accurate clinical notes including current contact details must be kept for every patient visiting the clinic.

10, Remember that after nearly eight weeks out of clinic and with all the extra requirements, the first few days at least are going to be more stressful. Book fewer patients so that you can also look after your own health – don’t allow yourself to get overtired.

11, Remember to take regular breaks, have a cup of tea, don’t skip lunch. Plan an early night for the first few nights.
12, Be kind – to yourselves first of all, and to all your patients who have missed you so much that they could barely wait to book in on the first day you open.