HOUSTON (May 12, 2020) – I work in a Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU), and my experience as a new nurse during the COVID-19 global pandemic comes with a mix of emotions, from near anxiety to feelings of pride in being able to take on this task of caring for our patients. My career already comes with its own unique set of pressures, as it includes a high-intensity work environment. But, adding a deadly pandemic on top of that? It feels overwhelming, to say the least.
Nursing during a Crisis
My hospital, like many other hospitals in the Texas Medical Center, has multiple checkpoints on campus where health care workers’ temperatures are checked, and we receive masks to wear for the duration of our shifts. This is just one of the daily changes we have had to adapt to since the coronavirus pandemic hit. As nurses, we know from the beginning of our careers that we will encounter a variety of sick patients. Although we are taught appropriate precautions to protect ourselves from infection, during this COVID-19 crisis is the only time where I have felt that my protective gear could not fully protect me from infection. And, after talking with my co-workers, it seems that our feelings are mutual. Despite these feelings of trepidation, the management and ancillary staff at my facility are very supportive. Between the daily emails of encouragement from our managers, to receiving meals or snacks from different departments or local businesses, we feel appreciated more than ever for what we do in providing medical care.
Sharing the Burden
The emotional impact of the virus does not only affect the infected and their family members, but the nursing staff as well. I can recall several moments within the last month of patients who were on life support having to share their final moments with family members through a glass door. I’ve comforted family members over the phone and consoled crying family members about the loss of their loved ones. I have already come to terms with the fact that I may get the coronavirus. But my worst fear, like many of my co-workers, is that I could bring this virus home to my family. In this time of uncertainty, it has been an emotionally taxing experience overall.
Remaining Vigilant
The global pandemic is something this generation has never experienced before. I know that the State of Texas has officially reopened, but I think that it is still very important that we:
Ayana Gibson BSN, RN
- continue to socially distance ourselves as much as possible to flatten the curve,
- practice hand hygiene, and
- check-in on friends and family.
We are just getting through the thick of things with no idea of when we will have a sense of “normalcy” again.
If I could encourage anyone, it would be to continue to stay strong and keep your faith through these trying times. I believe that my colleagues and I can continue to get through these tough times by continuing to have positive thoughts and practicing self-care.
Ayana Gibson BSN, RN, graduated from Prairie View A&M University’s College of Nursing in May of 2019.