By Susan Powers, RN & Lisa Martinez, RN
Working as a nurse during this deadly pandemic has been a humbling experience. These difficult challenging times have taught all of us in the healthcare field so much, as we started this pandemic we were hailed as heroes, however we quickly became overwhelmed by the constantly evolving policies, procedures and guidelines the pandemic created. We juggled floating to floors outside of our comfort zones to help where we were needed. We cared for patients and comforted families who relied on our constant communication for updates and facilitated I-pad visits so families could see their loved ones faces not in person but on a screen. We held the hands of those who feared for their lives, spending extra time at the bedside as patients expressed loneliness, isolated behind hospital doors in seclusion; knowing we were risking self exposure or worse yet exposing our families.
We all value the powerful bonds that have been created among co-workers as we completed hard days we would high-five each other or pat each other on the back for pulling together to help our peers and provide compassionate care. Job well done, sometimes tired emotionally and physically. We have lost friends and family members to this virus with an elusive cure, all so terribly sad and heart breaking. One thing I can say, is we all share an overwhelming sense of pride as we are dedicated to show up and give our all, gown up, mask up, we strive to bring peace, hope, comfort and joy to each patient & family member whose lives we touched.
It has been my greatest honor to be a registered nurse during these challenging times, and I know I speak for us all when I say we are a little more patient, caring and empathetic, not only at work but at home.
