COVID-19 and long-term care: Nurse perspectives

COVID-19 hit long-term care facilities early and hard in Washington state. The WSNA Community and Long-Term Care Task Force recently checked in with two long-term care nurses to find out what they have learned throughout the pandemic and how they are taking care of themselves as it continues.

Betsy Nordi, RN

Nurse Consultant

What is your professional experience?

“I’ve held an AA degree in nursing with geriatric specialty for 10 years and have spent the past seven years working as a nurse consultant at Bonaventure of East Wenatchee Assisted Living.”

What has surprised you since the pandemic started in your community?

“The ever-changing regulations and requirements imposed by the DOH and DSHS.”

What are some valuable lessons you have learned, and which of them would you like to pass on to other nurses?

“Having a solid team is essential. Learn to see the positives even when you are stretched to the max. We can make a huge difference in the lives of our residents just by giving a smile and listening to them.”

If your residents have required care, how has the communication been between your facility and your local hospital or clinic?

“We have not had any COVID-19 cases requiring hospitalization. We had three asymptomatic COVID-positive residents in March, and all have recovered through proper hygiene and quarantine compliance. We were blessed to have Confluence Health come to our facility and test all our employees — their support was very valuable. They regularly communicate any changes with us and have been very easy to work with.”

Are you finding things to help you keep your balance?

“As an introvert, I have not had any trouble staying home and social distancing during my time off, so perhaps I have it easier than most. I have also taken up a few new hobbies and studies in my free time.”

Cindy Van Hook, MSHCA, BSB, RN

Community Health Director

What is your professional experience?

“I have a bachelor’s degree in business, an associate degree in nursing and a master’s degree in health care administration. I have been in long-term care nursing for 25 years. I have been working at The Gardens at Town Square for six years and with Era Living for seven years.”

What has surprised you since the pandemic started in your community?

“Many things: the lack of professional leadership from President Trump and how [the pandemic] is a ‘political issue’ and it shouldn’t be; pandemic fatigue of essential caregivers; non-medical people making medical decisions; how it has affected ALL aspects of life; the functional decline of the elderly due to isolation… I could go on and on.”

What are some valuable lessons you have learned, and which of them would you like to pass on to other nurses?

“Don’t take decisions made out of your scope of influence personally. Do your best each day, knowing your best will fluctuate. Take self-care very seriously. Be mindful to stay in the moment — let the past go, and do not take on the worry of tomorrow.”

If your residents have required care, how has the communication been between your facility and your local hospital or clinic?

“So far, so good.”

Are you finding things to help you keep your balance?

“I work the hours needed — no more, no less. I exercise regularly and eat healthy foods. I get a good quantity and quality of sleep. I’m not be too hard on myself and don‘t take things home with me. I have one or two confidants at work. I stay off electronics/news and disconnect.”