What did your role look like prior to COVID-19?
As an RN at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, I am responsible for assessing patients and providing care to children with various medical conditions. I went into nursing to help others. I am grateful that I can still do that and I hope to help make a difference in these trying times.
How has your role changed after COVID-19?
My role with patient care has remained consistent, however we have increased a number of precautionary measures. We are now required to wear masks at all times to protect ourselves and others. In this rapidly evolving situation there have been constant changes to our procedures in caring for COVID patients while maintaining safety. In particular, trauma cases have required additional team members to ensure patient care and safety remain top priority.
Do you feel safe being on the job in the front lines?
I do feel safe at this time. We are well supported and given appropriate protective equipment.
How has this impacted your personal life? (Do you live away from your family? Has your routine or contact changed with them?)
I am unable to visit my parents due to social distancing, however, I know this is for the greater good and for the time being given the situation. Also, because I work in a hospital, I could be exposed to covid patients and would hate to pass anything on to my parents or anyone else. I do reside with my husband and that has not changed anything for us and won’t unless I become symptomatic.
What does it feel like to be a front line worker in this crisis?
It’s feels good. I went into nursing to help others. I am grateful that I can still do that and I hope to help make a difference in these trying times.
What do you think the nature of your work or your sector will look like once COVID-19 has passed?
At this point and time it’s hard to say how this will change my role moving forward. Individuals might be more cognizant of what they seek urgent care for, or they may not.