essential

[ uh–sen-shuhl ]

adjective

• absolutely necessary; indispensable

• of the utmost importance

I have been deemed an Essential Worker. Looking back at the definition, I feel pretty good right about now. I mean, I can whip out my badge and walk right to the front of the line at Costco! It doesn’t get much better than that. Who knew that when I decided to be a nurse that one day I would be celebrated for doing my job? I just wanted to help people. It’s always came easy to me. Service is something that has run through my veins for generations.

All jokes aside, this time has been hard. Change always is. With such an unknown disease process, its been a struggle to come into work every day and something has changed. Wear a mask, don’t wear a mask…wear a mask ALL the time. “Can somebody please tell me what’s going on?”

I have had so many feelings throughout this pandemic. From thinking it was exaggerated, to feelings of confusion, fear, pride, exhaustion, and even anger.  Working during this time, specifically on a COVID unit, has definitely contributed to the plethora of emotions.  Every day I go into work, I pray for wisdom and safety for both the patients and the staff alike.

Fortunately, things have now settled and fear has turned to hope. We have become masters at grouping tasks, and finding ways to accommodate our patients needs, while protecting both the patient and ourselves. In an effort to limit exposure, we have become EVERYTHING the to the patient. From lab draws to respiratory treatments, to physical therapy and basic nursing care, its all on us.

Our job has become, what we would call “heavy.” Not complaining, but its hard. I am thankful for those I have been able to meet and work with, travel nurses and staff alike. The support of my coworkers has been instrumental in getting through each day. Whether its by grabbing a supply that I need while in insolation, or cracking a joke, or most importantly, making sure they get my DoorDash order for lunch.

Although the attention and recognition are great, I also recognize that in order to get through this crazy time we all have a part to play. From staying home and teaching our children, to providing virtual yoga classes, working as a barista to working the frontlines in the hospital. Each of us must give what we’ve got, and we all have something special to contribute. WE will get through this, Together!

#EssentialAF