Compassionate Care in Uncertain Times

I work as a Nurse Care Technician in the Emergency Department (ED) at Albert C. Chandler Hospital in Lexington, KY. In a typical 24-hour period, our department could see upwards of 250 patients. Now, we are seeing less than 100 patients in that same period of time. These unusual times have brought about unusual circumstances for our department.In the picture attached, I am standing in front of a Critical Care room. This room has ample space and resources to care for critically-ill patients (cardiac arrest, respiratory arrest, etc.). As you can see, it's empty. A testament to the low census in the ED. Three months ago, this room would have been full. You might have even seen me standing next to patients who are on stretchers in the hallway - a place where we put patients when we have no more rooms available.We have converted an area of our department to specifically care for and test patients who are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. It has been modified to provide the most protection possible for both patients and healthcare workers. Right now, this area is busier than our Critical Care unit.You can also see that I am wearing a surgical mask, protective wear, as well as a surgical cap to prevent disease droplets from clinging to my hair. These extra precautions are necessary, not only to prevent myself from exposure, but also to prevent me from potentially spreading anything to other patients. The extra measures can be a nuisance though, all I want to do sometimes is rip my mask off to be able to breathe clearly!In the midst of all this, it's uncertain what to expect next. All we can do is provide the most effective and compassionate care as humanly possible. I still clock in to work each day with a wide smile and a full heart knowing I can help provide patients with an opportunity to heal. To me, knowing that reinforces that we really will get through this together.

By Noah, CBC Missionary to Kenya