Staying Positive in the Face of a Pandemic

I can’t even say the words Co#$&-19 without feeling my inner chest tighten and flutter. Yes a nice 3:1 atrial flutter that is difficult to convert.

If pharmacology and electricity won’t help, then what will?

Staying informed. Keeping up to date with RELIABLE sources of information is crucial. We know that this process is not linear – things will evolve, recommendations will change and hopefully, we will adapt to best care, heal and recover. 

Practice gratitude. I know it sounds fluffy but gratitude goes a long way no matter how little or hard you practice it. Be thankful for your health, your inner strength and your nursing superpowers.

Breathe. Extra points for fresh air. 

Dream. Every now and then it is totally acceptable to escape to another dimension, whether it be in the mystical world of your favorite book, a binge worthy Netflix series or the good old YouTube vortex. Just let it go….. let it go… yes you can also don a blue dress and sing your heart out. We give so much of ourselves to others; to our families, patients, and responsibilities. Take time for self care – anything to refresh YOU.

Do the things that make you happy. The half knitted sweater, unassembled wood sign and soap making paraphernalia are waiting for you. 

Be fit for practice. Ensure you are physically and mentally able to perform at your best when at work, others depend on it.

Support one another. Be present for yourself and others. Smile, talk, laugh and listen to people even whilst maintaining a llama’s distance from them. 🦙

Because I didn’t dare mention the C0&0$@ virus, I leave here an interesting podcast on the subject matter. It is ICU heavy content but I know lots of our PACUs will be set up as ICU overflow and our nurses may be asked to care for ventilated patients. 

https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/this-week-in-virology-with-vincent-racaniello/e/68407087?autoplay=true

The Psychologists’ Association of Alberta are also providing assistance to Albertan’s who are experiencing distress due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. Their Disaster Response Network members are offering free psychological services with priority for health care providers and first responders traumatized by recent events. This is not a crisis line or a referral service but pro-bono support by volunteer psychologists of 1-3 sessions for those in need.

Select the link below to access. It’s OK to talk to someone.

Disaster-response-network

We love hearing your ideas, thoughts and feelings in regards to this – feel free to share in the comments 🙂