On Monday, April 20th Governor Brian P. Kemp announced a phased approach to some Georgia businesses reopening, such as spa’s, tattoo parlors, barber shops and others. Please click here for the Governor’s Executive Order for the initial phase of business reopening’s, along with here for a list of 20 measures to meet the newly required “Minimum Basic Operations.”

We are deeply concerned about a second surge in COVID-19 cases. However, during our recent Zoom meeting with Governor Kemp, he indicated the State is significantly more prepared if a surge in new diagnoses occurs.

GNA Members may watch the recording of the video conference here. To join GNA, please click here.

Working in hospitals, dialysis clinics, public health clinics, nursing homes and extended care facilities, the nurses of Georgia provide the most patient care on the frontlines and are being placed in harm’s way with some facilities still experiencing limited supplies of personal protective equipment (PPE). The demand for PPEs across the world and limited supplies is concerning to the health and safety of Georgian’s.

As we reopen Georgia, please follow the Governor’s recommendations for safe reentry:

1. High risk groups stay home, only going out for necessities and using proper protection
2. If you develop symptoms, fever, dry cough, chills, diarrhea contact your healthcare provider by phone, access this screening application https://www.augustahealth.org/expresscare/covid-19-virtual-screening or call 9-1-1.
3. Frontline healthcare workers can receive mental health services by calling the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Georgia Crisis & Access Line (GCAL) at 1-800-715-4225, available 24/7.
4. Frequent hand washing and surface disinfecting with appropriate cleaners.
5. Social distancing- Stay 6-10 feet apart. Including while entering and exiting establishments
6. Outdoor activities- use hand sanitizers, wash your hands, stay 6-10 feet apart, wear appropriate masks.
7. The Nurses of Georgia ask for your continued trust and stay home if possible.

As the most trusted profession, the nurses of Georgia thank you for your support. As we come together to battle COVID-19 and reopen Georgia, now more than ever we need you to be vigilant.  Follow the recommendations of the Governor and the healthcare professionals.

Our lives depend on it.

In Service,

Richard Lamphier, RN

President

Georgia Nurses Association