Panic buying itself rather than fuel supply issues have caused petrol stations to close or restrict sales.
Community nursing staff and care workers across the UK are worried about fuel shortages caused by the public panic buying petrol and diesel.
Yesterday a small number of mainstream media outlets reported on fuel supply issues due an HGV driver shortage which then triggered panic buying across the country.
Ministers and industry experts claim the panic buying itself rather than fuel supply issues have now caused petrol stations to close or restrict sales.
Numerous nursing staff told NursingNotes that they are concerned about the impact panic buying will have on their ability to provide essential care to patients.
Community nurses and specialists regularly visit patients at home to administer life-saving medications and treatments.
Consider those who are vulnerable and dependent.
Leah Sparks, a community heart failure nurse said; “As a Community Heart failure nurse, this fuel shortage deeply concerns me. If I cannot get any petrol for my car, how am I going to be able to visit my patients?
“These patients are reliant on my clinical assessment and expertise in managing their condition, to keep them well and out of hospital.
“I urge the public to stop panic buying and consider those who are vulnerable and dependent on our community health professionals to provide their care.”
Jade Taylor, who works as part of a community health visiting team, added; “The pandemic has hit new families hard, many of them have been left without support networks and structures.
“Panic buying risks essential health and social care workers from being able to visit those who are most in need and could lead to something being missed.”
“Please, please, think about others”, Jade begs.
