Both sides of the fence
Kaye Bellis11Alfred Health, Prahran, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
Life in Infection Prevention (IP) was “up sized” with COVID-19.
During the peak of it our IP workload was all consuming. But we also had a life outside of work and for me usually the two don’t mix.
Melbourne was grey. Most of our lives were put on hold including routine appointments and any that did happen were isolating. In early June 2021 I was travelling OK, I had adjusted to the new life style we had. Until I was diagnosed with breast cancer.
This was a challenging time, not only because of the actual treatment but because of the restrictions of this happening during a pandemic. I had mixed feelings about IP as I worked thought this and even though my head understood the reasoning for all “rules” but my heart had issues accepting them. The feeling of isolation and loneliness was intense. I was better off than many as I understood what was happening but it had never happened to me before.
Silence, it was deafening. No visitors, no physical supports, no extra ears. I had many people support me but it was from a distance. I felt for my family who wanted and needed to be there but could not get passed the front door. I know the rules and restrictions are for the greater good but that was little consolation at the time. I am strong and well but wonder what it would have been like to have shared these experiences at the time.
Biography
I have been in IP for over 24 years and nursing for many years before that. I love my job and all that IP brings with it, guidelines, protocols, procedures, education etc. I have always been conscious of how privileged we nurses are and being able to advocate for our patients is key. Being patient is a very different role and how vulnerable you can feel. I want to ensure that we never forget that each patient has a story and sometimes our guidelines although implemented for a reason may not make sense to the patient.