April 2022 Editor’s Report

The Tube

April 2022 Editor’s Report

Apologies for the late production of the Tube. COVID under the new name of Omicron has once again moved into our lives creating many more uncertainties than the previous wave of Delta. We are not only now dealing with general living expenses at home but going to work and finding equipment or consumables required to complete our job are on back order with no date of arrival. Staffing is becoming an issue in the endoscopy suite with stand downs due to sickness or close contacts of Omicron recipients. Rapid Antigen Testing is becoming the new norm along with N95 or surgical masks. The specialty groups (IBD and Hepatology) are continuing to involve those who are in isolated situations around New Zealand. The IBD committee has linked with their Australian counterparts to promote education. A report on the Hepatology specialty activities is formatted in the journal. Croft Print, Christchurch has continued to format a great E journal for the college. This is only possible with the posters, articles and reports members supply to me. I am waiting for articles on unit history which is a great way to preserve history. Find forgotten photos and talk to those who are close to retirement or retired.

As nurses, we love to read about how things used to be and also how others are managing. There is an editor’s prize each year for the best article which is presented at Gastroenterology NZ conference so get pen to paper. Remember that to collect payment from the education fund you need to have your reports in by due date which is given in the approval of application letter. Thank you to the many advertisers who have supported NZGNC over the years. These include: Olympus, CR Kennedy, ECOLAB - Gallay Medical & Scientific, Device Technologies, Whiteley Medical, Obex and Boston Scientific. I would not have thought that my year of retirement would continue to be so disruptive for the specialty. For those who have not caught up with my plans. I retired from Southern Endoscopy Centre 4 March and have been spending my time decluttering the house of all that I have collected over the 45 years. It is a great trip down memory lane.

Karen Clarke Editor NZGNC