Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1307977
36 Working Nurse l WorkingNurse.com November 9–December 14, 2020 Tad Worku, RN EMERGENCY DEPT. Loma Linda University Health Looking back on this year, what have been the biggest changes in your practice? When I started working in the ER, I never really imagined I would be there during a global pandemic! ER nursing has always required a high degree of flexibility, so I think the biggest change has been the frequency of the adjustments. Early on, it felt like things were constantly changing. Tell us about the most inspirational thing you've experienced as a nurse during this pandemic. Two coworkers and I started a clinician wellbeing group for ER nurses. During one of our first meetings, it was evident that the morale was low. One nurse shared her anxiety about going home to her elderly fami- ly members, which inspired other nurses to open up about similar experiences. The pandemic has really stripped back ER providers' pro- tective layers and forced us to be vulnerable with each other. I think it made us realize how much we need each other. What nonmedical support from family, friends or the general public has been most appreciated? I have a strong support system, although it's tough not being able to see everyone. I have a cousin in residency at the same hospital, and we have been able to support each other. It's nice having someone to talk to who understands what it's like to be in the middle of everything. How have you grown as a nurse since you started working in this profession? It's sometimes surreal to recall the experiences I've had over the past five years. The ER defi- nitely changes you, but I don't think it has to be a negative thing. I've grown in my knowl- edge and ability to care for patients. I realize daily that I have so much more to learn, which keeps me motivated and on my toes. Grady Williams, RN, MSN SENIOR MANAGER OF ACUTE CARE SERVICES Providence Saint Joseph, Burbank Looking back on this year, what have been the biggest changes in your practice? Virtual meetings have contributed to productivity, but something is lost in interpersonal interactions. I do miss those interactions, but I feel fortunate that I am able to continue to round on patients. Tell us about the most inspirational thing you've experienced as a nurse during this pandemic. During the early days, there were many times that nurses, nursing assistants and monitor technicians came into my office, scared and unsure how they could continue working. I was truly inspired when a group of nurses and charge nurses volunteered to regularly float to the COVID-19 unit. They took ownership of the unit, working through their fears and inspiring courage in their peers. Those nurses are true heroes, and I often think about them when I need a reminder of strength and hope. What nonmedical support from family, friends or the general public has been most appreciated? My wife is also a nurse and was needed at her facility during the pandemic, so when the schools closed down, we were faced with a major dilemma. My mother-in- law, who lives in central California, volunteered to take care of our 7-year-old son for three months. My wife is incredibly resilient and has supported me when I get emotional or frustrated. I am deeply grateful for her and her mother's strength. How have you grown as a nurse since you started work- ing in this profession? I feel I have grown the most in my perspective on the bigger picture. I see how patient- centered care involves all departments and clinicians, and how that can be expanded from hospitals to the local communi- ty. I don't think when I was tak- ing my fundamentals of nursing I had any idea of how much nurses can influence the world. Looking back on this year, what have been the biggest changes in your practice? When I started working in the ER, I never really imagined I would be there during a global pandemic! ER nursing has always required a high degree of flexibility, so I think the biggest change has been the frequency of the adjustments. Early on, it felt like things were constantly changing. Tell us about the most inspirational thing you've experienced as a nurse