We will start with a little history and what has happened at the end of March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lifestyle and immersed us in a world of uncertainty. According to this Nursing article, people keep talking about getting back to normal, but I find it hard to imagine anything normal right now. Among the most challenging areas right now is medical care.
In today’s normality, if any, nurses are asked to care for others without adequately protecting themselves with the proper equipment. An unknown number of nurses are torn between caring for the sick and simultaneously trying to stay well for their families and communities. Women in labor, or those who die, may lack the comfort of contact with their families. There are even questions right now about when or if infected mothers and newborns should isolate each other. Some women choose to be born out of the hospital. Because women receiving chemotherapy tend to be immunocompromised, questions arise about whether it is reasonable for them to stop taking refuge at home to seek treatment, sometimes requiring hospitalization in institutions that are at capacity. It is all very overwhelming.
But I suspect that many of you who read this, instead of wasting time regretting, provide direct medical care every day, every hour. Nurses know the risks and still get this bad.
Nurses are special because they know not only the science of health care, but also the art. Now “solutions” are being found, such as the use of mobile phones and tablets to allow hospitalized women to connect with their loved ones.
What can nurses do for themselves? Although your time is limited and the situation is incredibly stressful, consider the following:
Pay attention to your mental health. Recognize that much of the case is out of your control. Tackle what you can and don’t wallow in constant bad news or can’t message. Consider positive, but reasonable messages for others and for yourself. Stay in touch with friends and family. Consider renewing friendships.
Improve your endurance. Try to get good nutrition and rest as much as you can. Don’t fall into the fast and easy food trap. Perhaps someone in your home can prepare a meal for you to take to the hospital. Even a 10 minute break can make a difference. Walk outside (physically distanced from others) if possible. Remember that deep cleaning breaths can help more than just working women. Meditation or prayers can be performed in a variety of places and are often refreshing. Fatigue encourages your mistakes and also increases your risk.
Have plans to feel more in control. When you return home from the hospital, know exactly how you will throw away your clothes, shower, etc., before you hug your family. Be prepared to tell others how to lower your risks within your family and community.
Share stories, frustrations, and thoughts with other nurses. Support each other during this crisis. Find out who supports you, don’t get you down, whether they’re in the same facility or contactable by phone or computer.
For those readers who are teaching or practicing on a role outside of direct medical care, keep in mind that it is also important. Do your best to stay safe – your family, your students, your community, etc. Share your knowledge (for example, consider writing).
Above all, if you are a nurse, accept compliments. You deserve it. You are a hero in a world turned upside down.
Long live the nurses and medical staff who are fighting for you, be kind and help them if you can.
Dr. Bry’an Adan Oliveros Galeana
Director de IREGA Canún