Families are incredibly anxious. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and it’s our job to allay their fears. You just listen to them, give them the facts, and tell them ‘we’re here for you.’ Keep a brave face. Calmness is contagious. If you remain calm, everyone else will remain calm with you.

There was a lot of anxiety when we had our first COVID-19 patient. As days go on, and we have more and more patients, staff has accepted the reality that this is our new normal. We huddle on every shift, and I share the most up-to-date information I have. There are a lot of changes, so we’re constantly adapting and flexing to follow new procedures and recommendations. I draw strength from my staff, and we support each other. I also remind staff to take care of themselves. We all need to get rest, eat healthy and exercise. If you feel like you need more support, reach out to EAP. Everyone still has fears — that does not go away. I’m scared, but I’m also really proud of my staff.

Our team of physicians, nurses, and amazing staff members have all come together in one big support team like no other time before. The current situation has helped break down barriers. We are all equal, and we have learned to jump in and help each other without hesitation. Knowing I am not alone in this crisis makes all the difference to me. Our patients are experiencing anxiety, and so are we. By always being kind to one another, we can meet this moment and the ones that follow.

As a nurse of 44 years, I can say this is something that we all trained for — to be on the frontlines and to make a difference for people who are sick. This is our chance to rise to the very best of who we are and what we can do. I don’t think any of us thought in our lifetime that we would be part of a pandemic. Now we’re living it, and we’re seeing some of the most incredible work, care, and selflessness coming from our nurses at the medical centers.

I spent the morning with an elderly patient who was grateful to be seen as the clinics are closed. He questioned if he should even be out in public but needed follow-up after a recent eye surgery. After the exam, he asked if he could chat for a few minutes because he wanted to talk about his deceased son who was a scientist. I realized I’ve taken these precious interactions for granted. Usually my schedule is packed with back-to-back exams. But today, I listened and acknowledged this proud father and what his son had accomplished. This 84-year-old man was seen and heard. His vision and eyesight were secondary. I love my job.

Sometimes it can get extremely emotional and physically draining, seeing our sick patients and our tired staff. Our patients have become our family, especially if their family cannot be here in the hospital with them. The toll of the situation can sometimes be hard to manage. I wasn’t taking care of myself. A fast, pounding heart rate and blurry vision were some of the symptoms that hit me while I was driving to work. I was able to get help and see a doctor, who diagnosed my anxiety attack and prescribed rest and fluids. I was also dehydrated. Now I’m taking care of myself first — because if we get sick who will take care of our patients?