So, I’m not going to talk about how to avoid the carona virus. Lots of info out there. All I will say is STOP PANICKING. Exercise proper precautions and listen to the experts. And for God’s sake, stay away from Google.
My biggest concern is for my fellow health care workers. This crisis could not come at a worse time. Most health care systems were barely functioning to begin with. We are already overburdened. I am deeply concerned that many of these systems will simply break apart as the crisis unfolds.
In many areas, there are already gaping holes. In Italy, the hospitals have reached critical levels. Health care workers are being forced to choose who to save and who they should let die. The pre-existing cracks are really starting to show.
In most areas, there are not enough tests to go around. Information on where to get tested is sketchy at best. As a result, people are presenting to emergency rooms everywhere, which helps spread the disease.
This is what happens when you have a system that is built around the best case scenario.
I hope all of my fellow health care workers are keeping safe, both physically and mentally. Take care of yourselves and your co-workers.
I would also like to point out that many experienced nurses (like myself) are sitting out this crisis because the system has already broken us. I have 14 years experience as an ER nurse, yet I am unable to help. What a total waste.