Welcome and Introduction
The resources on this site aim to support workers in health and care to have more knowledge and understanding about some of the common symptoms or conditions a person may experience post- COVID, more usually referred to as "long COVID". They were originally designed with Allied Health Professionals in mind, however they are relevant for any health and social care staff who may support people post-COVID. The resources provided are at an 'informed' or general level, rather than for people delivering specialist services.
- Background
- Aims and learning outcomes
- Specific topics can be accessed via the pages on the left hand menu
Long COVID word cloud
Background
The SARS-COV-2 virus originated in China in 2019 and soon became a global concern in 2020 before resulting in a full global pandemic. It was originally thought people who were infected by the virus would either recover reasonably quickly (2 weeks) or become seriously unwell and there would be a high mortality rate. Although this did happen, we now know there is a percentage of people who contracted the virus who continue to experience symptoms for weeks, months, or even several years later.
COVID-19 is a relatively new condition and the data and research about the longer-term effects of the disease is still emerging. As our understanding about the condition improves rapidly then information on best practice may also change.
The information provided on this site has been peer reviewed by experts in the field of long COVID rehabilitation who have agreed that it is correct at the time of writing and represents current best practice at this time.
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Aims and learning outcomes
We aim to provide staff with an understanding of long COVID and how prolonged symptoms may impact both on an individual’s physical and mental health and wellbeing, as well as an awareness of how clinicians can support an individual living with long COVID. Through this work we also aim to improve the quality of life for people living with long COVID, by ensuring staff delivering post-COVID care are well-informed.
Learning outcomes
Each section of this resource has specific learning outcomes associated with the topic. On completion of all of the sections/topics you will be better able to:
- Identify the mechanism of acute COVID-19 illness.
- Outline the currently recognised definitions of prolonged COVID symptoms and long COVID.
- Define the current understanding of the pathophysiology of long COVID.
- Describe some of the common clinical presentations of long COVID.
- Demonstrate an awareness of national and international guidelines relating to the management of long COVID.
- Recognise both the physical and mental health impact of long COVID.
- Indicate an understanding of the psychosocial effects of long COVID and the resulting economic impacts.
- Explain how we as AHP’s can educate and support those with long COVID to manage their symptoms and improve day-to-day function.
- Demonstrate an awareness of helpful resources and organisations you can signpost individuals to for further support.