First COVID-19 Vaccinations

‘On Thursday 25 February, the first COVID-19 vaccinations for Resthaven took place at Resthaven Port Elliot,’ says Executive Manager Residential Services and Retirement Living, Tina Cooper.

‘Around 70 residents and 25 staff received the vaccination.’

‘Residents were prioritised, with staff being offered to take up the remainder of the vaccine on hand. Many more staff were willing to be vaccinated, and this will happen in due course.’

‘One of the first residents to receive her vaccination is Mrs Drummond [pictured], who confirmed her consent to having the vaccination with the ASPEN Registered Nurse.’

‘ASPEN are the vaccination provider, appointed by the Department of Health, to provide vaccines in residential aged care.’

‘Mrs Drummond was a Registered Nurse who had in the past regularly administered vaccinations herself, before volunteering for Red Cross for many years in regional South Australia.’

‘She recalled that part of her job in administering vaccines was sharpening the reusable needles used at that time.’

‘Mrs Drummond told us that, because of her expertise as an RN, many of her fellow Resthaven residents had asked her about the needles used for the COVID-19 vaccinations – particularly if they were re-used.’

‘As we now of course use disposable needles, Mrs Drummond tells us that she “put them right!”’

‘We thank all those residents and staff who took part in the vaccination clinic, helping to keep our site communities healthy and safe.’

‘A postponed vaccination clinic will now take place at Resthaven Marion on Wednesday 3 March. Resthaven will be notified of further vaccination clinics as the Phase 1a roll-out continues.’

For more information about COVID-19 vaccinations at Resthaven, click here.