ED Rotation

Actual footage from my first rotation in the ED.

We had a brief orientation this morning to review the EHR, what notes we should be using, and the general flow of patients in the Emergency Department.

At my current hospital, we’re following CDC guidelines when it comes to COVID positive patients, which means a only surgical mask and face shield for all patients, even COVID positive ones, which is a little different than what I’ve come to expect in other hospitals I’ve rotated at, where COVID positives are kept in isolation rooms with strict protocol for N95 or PAPPR use.

Coming into my third trimester, I can’t help but feel apprehensive knowing that the next patient I’m about to see might be COVID positive. Sometimes, behind my clear plastic face shield and thin surgical mask, I’ll feel my baby kick and think to her “Sorry baby girl, I know this isn’t ideal. We’re all doing the best we can..” She doesn’t seem to mind.

Current data indicates that pregnant women are more likely to suffer complications from COVID-19. And knowing this, I can’t help but feel responsible for both her health and my own. Our fates are still tied for another three months.

One shift, one patient at a time.

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