Volume 2, Issue 1 | Page 33

Since you work in patient registration, can you give us a bit of insight on how patients feel when they come in and how you work your magic to ensure their safety? I work in a small community hospital, so it is a big mix of how patients are feeling when coming in and it has changed as the months pass. I would almost say we are seeing people go through the stages of grief as they are processing what is going on in the world today! Some are annoyed they have to be screened and have to wear masks, others are scared they have to be there and some are just thankful they can just get the care they need. (Especially those who are now finally getting to have their surgeries again.) How have you been staying positive during this time? I would be lying if I said it was easy, especially being someone who has PTSD. But I actually think work has helped me. It is a reminder that I’m not alone in all this craziness. Is there anything we the public can do to help make you feel safer? To be honest, My biggest concern is that we have more compassion. I hear a lot of how masks are annoying, scary and hard to breath when wearing it correctly. But trust me, the annoyance of the mask is nothing compared to not being able to breath because a virus has compromised your lungs. But you don’t wear the masks just for you. We wear them for the elderly and those with low immune systems. We take care of ourselves to help those who can’t take care of themselves. Also, when people are angry or annoying, make sure to remember we are all processing this new “norm” and know it isn’t something to take personal. Wear your mask, wash your hands and have compassion for everyone. 33