I am an ER nurse, we live for this. The city-wide panic, the adrenaline rush of being on the front lines, the desire to jump in to all the action...the overconfident assumption that we are immune to everything...
So why does this feel different?
I spent some time reflecting on this and have come to the conclusion that the reason this epidemic is so frightening is because it is bigger than me. Cases with car accidents, traumas, patient's stroking or bleeding out, or in cardiac arrest can be challenging on many levels, but we jump in hands first knowing that the worst thing we carry home is the emotional trauma of the day (don't get me wrong, day in and out that is brutal in itself- a topic for another day). That is on me. As we prepare for a potential surge of patients, the magnitude of this virus carries a lot of unknowns and I am struck by the realization that this is bigger than me. How many of us have already been exposed and are carrying it? What if I am the reason a loved one gets exposed and ends up with serious complications? Would it be prudent to isolate myself from my husband and children?
...because right now just going to work puts me at a greater risk than the average person, and coming down with the virus, while that part doesn't frighten me, passing it along to an immune-compromised family member does. This is bigger than protecting just myself, but everyone around me.
There is so much I am grateful for. I thank God every day that I have a secure job and that my husband can work from home. I am grateful I have healthy children, food in the pantry, and a backyard to enjoy these sunny days. I am also grateful that I work in a hospital that puts my safety first. I have the appropriate gear to care for COVID patients and Health One has really been on the ball about staying ahead of what could be coming.
My prayer is that all the shutdowns and social isolation truly will flatten the curve of this disease. I pray we don't run out of ICU beds or ventilator capability. I pray our staff stays well so we have the manpower to safely care for these patients. I pray that the world comes together to care for each other during this time.
Please, I beg you, from a nurse and mother on the front lines, remember that this is greater than yourself. You might not be at high risk, but think about the people in your life who are...grandparents, in-laws, neighbors, etc. A few weeks of social isolation will only be a few weeks if we can stop the spread of this virus. Thankfully we live in a time where the internet provides education, fitness classes, video chat, Facetime, and many ways to stay connected and engaged with many aspects of normal life. Get groceries if you need food, but send one person or order them online and don't hoard food from everyone else.
Ever wish the world would just stop for a few days? Guess what?! Wish granted!
This is not a time to panic, but it is a time to seriously consider the consequences of your actions. If you're stir crazy, take a walk outside, enjoy the fresh air, and keep distance from others. Pick up a new hobby, call a friend you haven't in a while, or get going on those yard projects.
Just remember those of us out there caring for the sickest. We want to be able to adequately care for them all, and can't afford a surge greater than what might already be headed our way based on current exposure and incubation periods.
Can You Relate?
Journey with me, pray with me, and feel free to comment.
#strivinginmotherhood
www.nfpteaching.com
