The vaccine programme in the UK has now reached more than half the UK population, bringing with it a sense of optimism about a virus-free future. However, despite the road to recovery being well under way, it’s important to recognise that the data relating to each vaccine’s overall effectiveness and long-term benefits is only preliminary. As a result, the constant monitoring of progress surrounding the vaccine rollout is essential for making informed decisions in the future.

How do current vacccines perform against variants?

This is one of the big questions as we see an increase in the number of mutations of COVID-19 and concerns about the effectiveness of existing vaccines continue to grow. Whilst there is still only a limited amount of data available, clinical trials that have been carried out show that existing vaccines have the ability to protect individuals against the currently known variants. One Pfizer study on the B.1.351 variant found that the vaccine remained 100% effective against severe disease and death - and the same was true in another study focusing on the B.1.1.7 variant. There is also a range of real-world evidence to show that this is also the case with the AstraZeneca, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. It’s also worth noting the falling number of cases and hospitalisations within the UK where vaccination levels are high.

Variants and the immune system

 The first thing that is important to note is that the presence of antibodies isn’t the only factor to take into account when it comes to working out how protected we are against the virus. Also important are the T-cells, which also mount a defence against pathogens entering the body. All of the clinical trials that have so far taken place on all the vaccines found that T-cells rise in numbers in those who have been vaccinated. These T-cells can identify parts of the virus on infected cells and work to eliminate them. Research has also found that T-cells can identify 52 parts of the virus, so even if COVID-19 continues to mutate, there is still a high chance that it will still be recognisable to the T-cells in those who have been vaccinated. The main reason we have heard more about antibodies than T-cells in recent months is because antibodies are much easier, and cheaper, to monitor. However, T-cells allow individuals to remain protected against viruses for extended periods of time. For example, their protection can last for decades, as the immunity you get from specific measles T-cells lasts up to 34 years. Moreover, T-cells in SARS patients from the 2003 epidemic have so far lasted 17 years.

There’s no doubt that COVID-19 represents a huge challenge to global healthcare. This is especially so now that variants have entered the picture and we are increasingly dealing with mutations. However, there is also a growing body of evidence to show that the vaccines currently in circulation could help our bodies continue to repel the virus for many years to come.To find out about the various COVID-19 vaccines and their implications, be sure to read our previous blog ‘The COVID-19 Vaccine: What it means for you’ for more information. 

Oncology nurses provide support in a variety of different settings, but will carry out a broadly similar role wherever they are based. Whether in a hospital, hospice or involved in home care, oncology nurses form a crucial part of the team that will support a patient and their loved ones through the process of dealing with cancer diagnosis and treatment. Here at Last Call Healthcare, we’ve put together a list of some of the key responsibilities these professionals carry out in support of their patients and their families:

Educating patients to understand their condition - Education is an essential part of getting to grips with a disease like cancer. Oncology nurses provide close support and develop a rapport with their patient and their families to help provide information and support about the cancer and the treatment to come. An oncology nurse will learn the best way to communicate which stage the disease is at and provide enough information so that the patient and their family can be involved in the decision-making process.

Patient assessment - This is a vital part of being an oncology nurse, as being able to assess the physical and emotional state of the patient, as well as take into account a range of different factors such as the patient’s past health history, are important when deciding upon the best treatments. Furthermore, having an awareness and understanding of the results of pathology and imaging are essential in helping an oncology nurse to create an effective care plan.

Coordinating patient care - There may be many different specialists involved in treating someone who has cancer, with an oncology nurse acting as the main coordinator for each stage of the treatment process. This involves dealing with referrals, to ensuring that the patient’s wishes are being taken into account in terms of the way the care is delivered to make sure they are as comfortable as possible.

Carrying out direct patient care - Chemotherapy can be an essential part of cancer treatment and an oncology nurse is often responsible for administering this stage within a patient’s treatment regime. This means ensuring safe handling and documenting all the treatment that has been given, as well as being aware of potential allergic reactions by being familiar with the potential side effects this treatment brings. 

Managing symptoms - This can be particularly relevant in terms of managing the side effects of chemotherapy, of which nausea and vomiting are two of the most common. An oncology nurse provides essential insight and support, helping patients to best manage the impact of treatment and other symptoms that may arise. This part of the role also often includes pain management, both in terms of pharmaceutical and non-drug options. Nurses spend more time with cancer patients than any other medical professionals and will have a great deal of understanding of, and insight into, pain and the way that this can be managed. From dealing with fears about addiction to understanding tolerance and avoiding over or under treatment, there are many ways in which the input of an oncology nurse is essential to this element of support. 

For cancer patients and their families, the support of an oncology nurse is key when facing up to a cancer diagnosis head on. To find out more about our services in this area, visit our ‘Chemotherapy Nurses’ page to find out the support and roles that we can offer.

Being a nurse involves focusing on the health and wellbeing of others. Qualities such as compassion and empathy, altruism and care are all essential. However, while excellent nursing requires all of these attributes, there is also the risk that all energy is being focused on other people, leading to the neglect of your own individual needs. It’s vital to make sure that you’re as aware of your own self care as much as that of others, and thus the team here at Last Call Healthcare have put together some tips that will help you refocus on your own health when necessary:


Make sure you leave work at work- The pressure of the COVID-19 pandemic, concern over patient wellbeing and anxiety over all of the uncertainty within the healthcare industry at this point can make it difficult to switch off at the end of the day. However, it’s essential that you’re not taking work home with you so that you have time to refresh, rest and recharge. Do things that ground you when you’re not at work, whether that’s seeing friends, walking in nature or simply having some ‘me time’. Allow yourself to completely switch off from all of your work responsibilities whenever possible.

Exercise is key- There are many benefits to staying active for both your physical and mental wellbeing. As a result, you should factor this into your daily commute where possible by, for example, cycling, or sign up for online yoga or fitness classes so that you can utilise your internal space when outdoor exercise is not possible. However, where you can, outdoor exercise can be especially beneficial, whether that’s running, walking or swimming as it helps clear the mind and solely focus all of your energy on your own self-improvement. 

Review your diet-If you’re lacking in energy, feeling low or constantly hungry, then changes to the way you eat could be enormously beneficial to your overall health. Busy lifestyles and long hours can often see us reaching for food that is filled with processed sugar, trans and saturated fats. Although they can deliver a short high or a comfort food feeling they don’t have the energy release your body needs and can negatively impact productivity and concentration. Instead, switch to fresh, whole foods with plenty of protein, fruit and vegetables.

Don’t ignore your emotions- One of the quickest ways to get overwhelmed by your feelings is to try and ignore them. If you’re working long hours in hard conditions, it’s natural to feel stressed, anxious and overburdened. Make space for these feelings, and talk to others where possible to ensure that you aren't carrying around any additional mental baggage that could negatively impace your frame of mind, work and social relationships.

Take time out for yourself- This means putting your own self-care at the top of your agenda to protect your ongoing ability to contribute to your place of work and others. Take a clear look at situations you’re being involved in that you don’t need to be part of, where you’re taking on too much responsibility or have allowed your time to be wasted. Start learning to say ‘no’ to the things you don’t need to do so that you can say yes to the things you do.

Self-care is essential for nurses to be able to carry out their roles and responsibilities to the highest lvel possible, especially during the trying times that all healthcare workers have experienced over the last year. To find out more about how to cope with feelings of stress and fatigue, read our blog ‘How to stay energised during your shift’ for more tips and information.

If you’re currently working in the healthcare industry, the chances are that your hours are long and your days busy. As a result of this, it can be tough to stay energised and focused on your day to day tasks, but for your own wellbeing, as well as that of your patients, operating in the right frame of mind is imperative for you to successfully carry out your role. For example, fatigue and sleep deprivation can have a wide range of negative impacts on the human body, from slowing down reactions to changes in your cognitive ability to perform complex tasks. Therefore, the team here at Last Call Healthcare have put together a list of suggestions to help ensure that you are as energised as possible during your shift.
 
Embrace the outdoors – Taking your breaks outside where you can get some fresh air, even if you are only able to walk around the block for 10 minutes, can be a great refresh for your system and provide a mental boost. Be sure to take advantage of this whenever you can, as some exposure to the sunlight will give your mind something else to focus on and revive you with a quick dose of serotonin.
 
Keep nutrition in mind - If you’ve been working hard, long shifts without much sleep, then the temptation is often high to treat yourself with a sugary or unhealthy snack. This may feel like a good idea at the time; however, this can trigger a glucose crash within a few hours that means you’ll need to keep eating like this to maintain even the lowest stream of energy. Good fats and protein can provide a much better alternative that will help you to sustain your energy - make sure your meals are high in protein and snack on a handful of nuts or a similar alternative to help keep your energy levels up.
 
Be wary of caffeine - Initially, the caffeine in coffee and tea can provide you with a rush of energy that could help you get through your shift. However, this is frequently followed by a post-caffeine crash and may also mean that you start building up a tolerance to caffeine. As a result, you’ll need more and more to achieve the same effect and this can have some very negative consequences for your body, as well as leaving you in a constant state of feeling fatigued.  
 
Stay hydrated - We frequently underestimate the positive impact of drinking water when it comes to energising the body. Even just 1% dehydration can begin to impact on your cognitive abilities, and if you’re feeling slow and lacking in energy, then this may impact your ability to work and carry out your role effectively. By staying hydrated, you can help combat this and keep yourself in the right state of mind to be able to provide for your patients. Given that there may be restrictions on where you can drink, make sure you’re starting your day with several glasses of water, and be sure to carry a bottle around with you when possible.
 
Working within the healthcare industry can be incredibly draining at times due to the nature of the work that is carried out, as well as the fact that shifts are often extended during busy periods. Simple changes, such as better nutrition and ensuring you stay hydrated, could make a big difference to how you feel and whether you’re able to sustain your energy throughout your day. To discover more about the importance of self-care during your shift, be sure to read our blog ‘Looking after your mental health during COVID-19’ for further information.

Working for a nursing agency is an opportunity to have a more varied professional life and to overcome the lack of fulfilment that some nurses feel they suffer from during their careers. Being happy and satisfied at work can make a huge difference to how you feel about life in general, and partnering with a nursing agency might be the ideal way to do this. Therefore, we here at Last Call have put together a list of just some of the benefits of working for a nursing agency.
 
More flexibility in your schedule - If you’re working directly for any employer, then you’re restricted by their rotations and shift patterns. This is not the case when you’re working for a nursing agency, as you’ll have much more choice and flexibility about when you work and be able to fit this into your life in a way that suits you.
 
Minimise stress and burnout - Because you’ll have greater control over your schedule, you can prioritise your self-care and mental health and avoid getting into a situation where you are overwhelmed and burnt out. If you need a break or don’t want to work during a specific time, then you can simply choose not to.
 
More options - Nurses work in many different areas of the health service, from GP surgeries to hospitals, and if you’re working with a nursing agency, then you’ll be able to choose to work in the location where you feel the most comfortable.
 
Better pay - Nursing agency hourly rates tend to be higher than the equivalent of working directly for an employer. In fact, you could increase your hourly rate by more than 60% by making the shift to working with a nursing agency, which can increase further with the addition of overtime.
 
Enjoy more variety and patient focus - As a non-permanent member of staff, you’re much less likely to be burdened with admin, stocktaking or handling complaints. Instead, you’ll be focused on patient work, which is likely to deliver much more satisfaction on a day-to-day basis. Plus, you’ll have more variety, not just in terms of the work that you do, but in the patients and people you work with too.
 
Avoid sticky political situations - Office politics exist in a healthcare environment as much as any other. However, if you’re working with a nursing agency, you don’t need to get involved and can simply leave it behind at the end of the shift. Agency work also tends to involve less management, which can relieve the pressure on the way that you interact with others you’re working with.
 
Working for a nursing agency like Last Call Healthcare offers a vast number of benefits for professionals who are looking for something different and more in-keeping with their career choices. To find out more about the opportunities we present at Last Call, visit our Healthcare Specialisms page and browse what we have to offer. 

The release of the first batches of the COVID-19 vaccine has potentially changed the course of the pandemic, giving hope to millions of people that life can start returning to normal. Although there is still some degree of uncertainty as to how the vaccines will protect against the varying new strains of the virus, the release of some form of protection means the world of good for our societies. So, what does the arrival of mass vaccination mean for you - and for life in the months and years to come?
 
COVID-19 vaccines
 
There are currently two vaccines in circulation within the UK - the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine and the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. When it comes to administration, both require two doses to be given to be effective, although there is now some discussion around the effectiveness of a single dose. The Pfizer vaccine has been reported to have 95% efficacy in preventing infection in participants with no previous evidence of COVID-19, while the AstraZeneca vaccine has 70% efficacy as a single dose and 90% if it is given first as a half dose and then as a full dose. There is also a third vaccine - the Moderna vaccine - which has been approved and should be in use by the spring. This also requires two doses.
 
Rolling the vaccines out
 
Both the AstraZeneca and Pfizer vaccines are already being given to specific groups in the UK, including those who are over 80, care home residents, care home staff and those who work on the frontline of health and social care. There are more vaccines currently in development and a much broader programme is expected to be available from the spring. There is currently a ranking system for those who are eligible for the vaccine with older and more vulnerable people at the top, graduating down through age brackets and vulnerability. For example, those in BAME groups, areas of higher transmission and places where there is greater socio-economic deprivation will be a core focus.
 
Vaccines are only available from the NHS - beware of scams
 
As usual, there are scammers out there who will look to take advantage of people’s fears about COVID-19, and that includes desperation to get hold of a vaccine. There have been news reports of scammers taking money and injecting people with fake vaccines - or nothing at all. The vaccines are only available from the NHS and you do not have to pay for them, so be cautious of phone calls or communications that offer opportunities to jump the queue.
 
Creating hope for the future
 
It doesn’t look like the vaccine will become mandatory for those who are further down the list - though it could be a travel requirement in the future. Although it certainly provides hope that we won’t have to continue to live under constant restrictions and lockdowns, it’s not clear when this will happen. We don’t currently know, for example, how long immunity lasts or whether the vaccine only stops people from getting ill rather than spreading the virus.
 
Whilst we remain optimistic for the future now that several vaccines are in play, now is a crucial stage within the pandemic where we must continue to stem the rate of infection of the virus in order to help our dedicated healthcare workers in this battle against COVID-19.

There are many reasons why you might want to become a nurse, with one key reason being the fact that it is an incredibly satisfying profession that is all about helping and supporting others. In addition, it's also one where there are lots of opportunities, with 94% of students who opt to study nursing receiving a job within just six months of finishing their course. There is also financial support for those who need it and the chance to meet lots of different people while completing training that is both learning based and hands on. So, how do you do it?
 
Studying nursing
 
There are many different universities offering a nursing degree and each one will have its own set of entry requirements. Most course providers will require you to have at least two A-levels, often three, or an equivalent qualification at Level 3. On top of that you will also need to have gained GCSEs in subjects like English, Mathematics and one are of Science. The best university for you will depend on a range of different factors, from the entry criteria for the course to the location of the university and the other amenities that are on offer there.
 
Post-grad and applications
 
If you’re a post-grad and you want to switch to study nursing after another course then you can get an Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning, which means your post-grad study can be reduced from three to two years.
 
Any applications for full time nursing courses will need to be made via UCAS. If you’re looking to do a part time course then you should contact the university where you want to study. From January 2021 there will be the opportunity to complete a nursing qualification online - or to opt for blended learning that combines online and in-person study. You’ll be able to find out more about these courses by contacting individual universities.
 
Becoming a nurse without a degree
 

• Nursing degree apprenticeships - If you don’t have time to study full time then an apprenticeship is a more flexible option. This still involves study and obtaining the degree but it is balanced with on the job learning. Most apprenticeships take four years to complete although this may be reduced if you already have prior learning and experience. To get started under a nursing degree apprenticeship you’ll normally need to have at least a Level 3 qualification.

• Nursing associate roles - Joining the nursing profession as a nursing associate is a great way to get a foot onto the first rung of the nursing ladder. Whatever your background you can begin the process of training to be a registered nurse by starting out as a nursing associate. The work that you can do as a nursing associate is very broad and you may find that roles are available in a diverse range of settings in primary, community, acute and social care. Although you’re not a registered nurse as an associate you can train on an ongoing basis to get to that level.

 
There are a number of different routes to becoming a nurse, from extensive studying to on the job training. Take time to understand which route will be best for you and take that next step in starting out in an exciting and worthwhile career.
 

Critical Care nurses have always been important to the healthcare industry, but in 2020 have been central to much of the urgent care that has been necessary for COVID-19 patients. It’s the Critical Care nurses who are often on the front line in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), fighting to help save the lives of those who are affected worst by the virus. These are key workers in every sense of the word and despite the pressure that many have been under as hospitals continue to be swamped with COVID-19 cases, Critical Care nurses continue to show up and save lives every day.
 
Why are Critical Care nurses so important?
 
These are the nurses who are caring for patients who are in a life-threatening situation. That could be COVID-19 but there are also many other conditions that require the support of Critical Care nurses, whether they relate to a condition such as cancer or the aftermath of an event or accident. The needs that these patients have can be complex and this is a role that requires specialist skill and understanding. Critical Care nurses also need to have an in-depth understanding of the human body and mind and to be able to think critically and quickly in any situation. Because these patients are in such an urgent state, Critical Care nurses play a crucial role in monitoring ongoing conditions and in making the right decisions to help a patient improve.
 
Becoming a Critical Care nurse
 
This type of role requires a registered nurse qualification - which is usually the result of studying for a nursing degree - combined with a broad spectrum of experience throughout a range of different healthcare environments. Critical Care nurses can focus on different specialisms and gaining training and qualifications on an ongoing basis will be geared towards this. There are also a number of skills that are likely to make someone an ideal candidate for Critical Care nursing, including:
 

• Technical knowledge and understanding - Critical Care nursing can include anything, from inserting a central line to enabling ventilatory support, so the ability to grasp technology and procedure is key.

• Strong organisational abilities - Being able to manage multiple requirements for multiple patients is vital, from reading observation charts to managing medication schedules.

• Strong communication and collaboration - Being a Critical Care nurse means being part of a large care team and able to communicate and collaborate with people at all levels and across different departments.

• Resilience - There may be some challenging situations for a Critical Care nurse, including delivering bad news and seeing patients deteriorate so resilience and strong mental health are essential.

• Passion for the job - Critical Care nurses make a huge difference to the experience of patients and their families and friends. It’s an emotionally, physically and mentally demanding role that will be the most rewarding for those who really have a passion for it.

 
Critical Care nurses have a vital role to play in medical care today, especially as the pandemic continues to take its toll on how we live today. The vital care and services will be more valuable now than ever before as we enter a crucial period in the battle to control the spread of COVID -19.

2020 has been a tough year to work in healthcare, which is why it has become essential that mental health doesn’t get forgotten. Uncertainty has been one of the defining features of the pandemic and, although there are vaccines for COVID-19 on the horizon, it’s clear that it will be some months before we start seeing the world go back to normal. Therefore, with winter now looming, we here at Last Call Healthcare have put together a list of ways in which you can look after your mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
Speak up if you feel like you’re struggling - One of the positives to come from the pandemic has been a greater willingness to open up and ask for help when things aren’t going well. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, loneliness, grief or anxiety; there will be a solution. As soon as you start to feel like you’re not coping, reach out to family, friends or one of the many mental health organisations that are out there to help clear your mind and start taking positive steps towards a healthier life.
 
Take care of the basics - Exercise and sleep are essential for all, and if you’re not getting enough of either, then this could be negatively impacting your mental health. Try to make sure that you’re getting at least 30 minutes of exercise every day - being outside, whether that is walking or running, is also very beneficial. A healthy sleep can be the first thing to suffer when anxiety kicks in. If you’re not sleeping well, then try some new routines, such as not watching TV in bed or doing relaxation exercises before you go to sleep to help clear your mind.
 
Maintaining a routine - Having a regular daily routine that you stick to can help you to focus on and achieve any of the current goals you have set out. Moreover, having a structure in your life can prevent you from falling into a sedentary lifestyle, which in turn could negatively affect your mental health.
 
Stay connected - Even if you’re working long hours with other healthcare staff you may be so busy that there isn’t much time to stop and chat. Make sure you are creating moments for connection, whether that’s a video call with your family, a socially distanced coffee with a work mate or regular emails with friends.
 
Looking at the positives - If you’re working in healthcare right now, you might be under a lot of pressure in regards to performing at such a critical period during the pandemic. However, with this comes many opportunities for you to grow and progress within your position. Try to identify the positives that could potentially arise from the current situation and focus on these when you can to get you through times of hardship.
 
Give yourself some ‘me’ time – Taking the time out to ensure that you can unwind and relax even if you’re working long hours is crucial for maintaining a healthy state of mind. Try to schedule in a 30 minute period each day where you can take time to focus on yourself. For example, try meditation, exercise or plan more nutritious meals to help benefit your physical health alongside your mental frame of mind.
 
Celebrate the small wins - These happen every day, but in challenging times, it’s all too easy to overlook them. These could include an array of things, such as navigating a hard situation at work to getting to bed on time - notice when things go well and reward yourself for these wins to gain a mental boost.
 
There have been many obstacles that have arisen this year that will have negatively affected our mental health. Following the steps that we have outlined in this article will provide you with a strong foundation for monitoring and nurturing your mental health in the months to come, ensuring that you and your loved ones can stay positive during such challenging times.