Thread by @CBLevineMS

Before my next #COVIDVaccination clinic volunteer shift this week(end) I wanted to reflect on my experiences from last week. I've been thinking a lot about it and trying to figure out what to say. I'll try to keep this 🧵brief and give the highlights
1/n

https://twitter.com/CBLevineMS/status/1352328896012840963

I had been waiting for the day I could work a #COVIDVaccination clinic for a year. Since this #pandemic started I've been ready to help get doses into arms, whenever safety and efficacy proved enough for an EUA.
2/n

Through 3 shifts I had a smile on my face and in my heart. I was so happy to greet every person and send them to that coveted chair where a nurse would administer their vaccine.

For my team, I greeted and checked paperwork on 250 ppl (yes I'm keeping count).
3/n

Every person was happy to be there, they were kind & friendly and thanked us for our work.

The thing that touched me the most was seeing grandparents escorted by their grandchildren. I'm not sure those teenagers realize the mitzvah they just performed.
4/n

The whole process ran smoothly, & we were even able to implement some changes on the fly as needed

One nurse realized that many ppl were showing up as couples to get vaccinated & decided to reorganize so we could sit them together on the same 15m timer (w/social distancing)
5/n

For those worried about safety, I can tell you that at least at this clinic you are monitored by several nurses and docs for a true 15-30m (I started a timer for every person).

We had briefings on what to do in case of emergency (of which none happened).
6/n

Every person's health screening was checked 2-3 times before receiving the vaccine. If someone had an underlying condition or special medication we checked that their doc knew and was on board with the vaccine.
7/n

For those wondering about doses...Every single dose was put into an arm. NONE went to waste. Those running this clinic planned it well, and checked in on number of doses throughout the day to make sure we were on track.
8/n

All in all it was such a rewarding experience and I can't wait to do it again. I'll be working the same clinic for another shift this week & then I'll be working a larger drive-through clinic over the weekend.
9/n

If you are looking for a way to give back to your community, end #COVID19, and just have a good productive time please consider #volunteering. Reach out to your local health district, your hospital, or sign up with @MRC_ASPR.

#GetVaccinated
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Addendum: For those wondering, I am a NON-medical #volunteer. You don't need to be a HCW to help with the #CovidVaccine effort.

Sites need greeters, screeners, traffic control, eyes on vaccine recipients, etc.

Trust me, if you want to help there will be a job for you!

@threadreaderapp unroll please!