Many people believe in prayer and a higher power, but still try to change circumstance that they have no control over. This may include going to the physician for an illness. Many try to handle the issue themselves before they seek professional help.
I was faced with a situation recently a friend needed me to take her to the emergency room for another issue. I dressed, ate breakfast and prayed that the Lord would keep me well, as I always do every morning. She was in a hurry to get to the hospital, so she called another friend. A few hours later she revealed she tested positive for COVID-19. I would have been unknowingly exposed to the virus for at least 60 minutes. I am in and out of hospitals frequently and do everything possible to keep myself well. I was so grateful that I was not exposed.
It was unfortunate that this issue occurred in the first place. I thanked the Lord, for changing the circumstances of that visit, it could have turned out badly for me. I was afraid for my friend because she had a pre-existing condition. I was hoping she could weather this double storm, with God’s help. I prayed she would recover. In retrospect she should of called an ambulance, because the workers are dressed for the exposure of any possible infection. Now another person has been exposed.
This story did not end well. My friend died as a result of COVID-19, within two weeks of the diagnosis. I was devastated. As a nurse we deal with the results of death frequently especially with others. It is especially hard when it is someone you personally know. At the beginning of this pandemic many people did not know anyone with the disease or any one who had died from COVID-19. They did not believe it was true. That definitely was not my issue, as I am work in a variety of hospital settings frequently.
Nurses are unique, as patient advocates, they provide and support patients 24/7 through their most vulnerable times, life, death and everything in between. As a result we have to be strong for others, and give them support through their tears and fears.
Who is there for the nurse and other professionals as they deal with the stress of providing care and assisting with those who are transitioning? Lately patient deaths have become a consistent event. We are not robots but the public expects us to be happy every time they walk through the door of the hospital or clinic. People forget we are human and have emotions as well.
Pray and dependence on each other within our profession is what gets us through the shift or the day. We appreciate the thanks but empathy and personal responsibility goes a long way when we are talking about personal health. These days many people do not want to take personal responsibility for anything, including health issues. They eat things that are contrary to their health and participate in risky behavior because it is their right. These same individuals look at the medical community to reverse the outcome.
Well, I am informing you that it is tiring. Without the dedicated members of the health profession some of you would be left to your own devices. After losing my dear friend I realized that as much as I advocate for others and their risky behavior, it has been confirmed once again that I have no control over what others do.
Please continue to wear a mask, social distance and wash your hands, someones life may depend on what you do.
All Things Health and Wellness 