“I chose to major in nursing because I wanted more than a career. I wanted to be there for individuals during their most difficult moments.” – Kaliah Glenn ‘19, BSN, RN
HOUSTON (May 7, 2020) – Being a recent graduate working as a nurse in the emergency department is a challenge, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love being an ER [emergency room] nurse. This pandemic has brought about new obstacles that even seasoned nurses don’t know how to overcome.
Kaliah Glenn ‘19, BSN, RN
Three months after completing orientation, is when the pandemic started. And, I was one of the first nurses in my hospital to care for a coronavirus (COVID-19) patient. At the time, I didn’t know just how much the country would have to endure in the weeks to come.
The hospital quickly went through a remodeling process, increasing the number of negative pressure rooms (which is an isolation technique used in hospitals to prevent cross-contamination from room to room) and turning entire floors into COVID-19 units.
The response of our leadership has been unparalleled; they continue to make sure that we have PPE (personal protective equipment), and are constantly introducing new safety equipment for us to use. Last week, our department got PAPRs (powered air-purifying respirators) that could be worn in place of N95 masks. They are more comfortable, are breathable, and can be worn longer. This is such a blessing, because I had started to get skin breakdown on the bridge of my nose from hours of wearing an N95.
Each day in the emergency department is vastly different. Some days our COVID unit is so busy that it’s almost unbearable, whereas, other days may be slower. Some days we have to put multiple patients on life support; other days, none.
The hardest part about being a health care worker during this pandemic is not being able to see my family. It saddens me that I’m missing quality time with my grandmother and the milestones of my toddler nephew.
Just as it is hard for me, it is also hard for my patients and their families. Many of them won’t have the opportunity to be with their loved ones and hold their hands during their last moments of life. This reality brings great sadness to my soul. I pray for the day that we will all be able to be reunited with our loved ones.
With the city (mandated by the state) opening up this week, I urge my PVAMU family to continue to be diligent in the fight against the coronavirus. Yes, the city is open, but the virus has not dissipated, which means that there could be another surge of cases if we let our guards down. Stay at home when possible, wash your hands, and protect your eyes, mouth, and nose when in public.
Kaliah Glenn works in the Texas Medical Center. Born in Tenaha, Texas, Glenn’s family moved to Houston when she was six years old. After graduating from Channelview High School as salutatorian in 2015, Glenn earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in May 2019, graduating magna cum laude.