What’s going to you say when…? Conversations about COVID with science skeptics

I actually had trouble with the title of this post. There are a lot of differences of opinion today and I’d never assume that I’m an authority on the great or bad actions of any individual. Nonetheless, as a nurse, I feel it’s my responsibility to deal with the science behind the recommendations, reiterating that even now there continues to be quite a bit we do not learn about Covid-19, and being cautious has at all times been my style, even before this pandemic.

As I go searching my community in southeastern Pennsylvania and on social media, it is obvious that there are various different views. I understand the toll this pandemic is taking, each on those that have been affected by the virus personally or seen it up close in a member of the family or friend, and on those that have had a severe impact on their careers, funds and/or mental health.

I felt compelled to write down this for nurses because during our webinar we received several questions related to communicating with family and friends, Listed below are tricks to show you how to smooth out difficult conversations and answer a few of the questions you will have. Let’s work on this together – leave a comment if you’ve some other questions or answers so as to add!

Why do I actually have to wear a mask?
We all know that the virus that causes COVID-19 spreads very easily between people. By wearing a face covering over your nose and mouth, you potentially protect other people from getting the virus from you (and spreading it) for those who are infected with the virus and don’t have any or asymptomatic symptoms.

Do I still need to keep up social distancing?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends maintaining a distance of six feet between people. From what we all know now, one of the best approach to control the spread of this virus is to practice physical distancing, wear a mask, keep your hands clean, and avoid crowds.

Should I take hydroxychloroquine?
It is important to learn from the most recent research and advice out of your doctor who knows your medical history. Currently, each the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the FDA recommend against the usage of hydroxychloroquine or chloroquine to treat COVID-19. Research is ongoing; NIH updates recurrently COVID-19 treatment guidelines based on current research results.

Will my children return to high school this fall?
Decisions about how and when to securely open schools will likely be made by local public leaders as circumstances vary by geography. (You can even refer people to the CDC document at Considerations for schools here’s one other good read for fogeys, What parents can learn from the childcare centers that remained open throughout the lockdown.)

Why cannot we go to ____ (fill within the blank here: concert/party/graduation/etc.)?
As we learn more about Covid-19, it is crucial to limit its spread. For the reason that starting of the pandemic, crowds – whether at parties, restaurants, concert events or religious services – have been repeatedly shown to extend the spread of the virus. It’s endorsed to keep up physical distance and take day by day protective measures (washing hands, covering your nose when coughing and sneezing, cleansing and disinfecting surfaces). The chance of spreading COVID-19 increases the closer an individual interacts with others and the longer the duration of that interaction; comply with state or local regulations regarding large gatherings. (You can even refer people to the CDC documents at Social meetings and events.)

As states across the country develop and implement reopening plans, we must keep in mind that all and sundry has their very own story and must “open up” at their very own pace. It is vital to respect one another. Answer questions with facts, acknowledge the unknown, and at all times be kind.