The Blog

The situation is devastating here in Nepal and I fear the worst is yet to come. I work as an ICU nurse and have tackled several COVID-19 cases where patients developed Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome within a very short period and needed to be put on ventilators. Even the healthiest looking person may die if prompt intervention is not made. So, everybody please be careful and follow the guidelines of the government.

I’ve seen many people dying during this pandemic not only because of COVID-19 but because of underlying comorbidities. These patients seek help at the last possible moment because they fear the risk of contraction. And sometimes if their symptoms match the symptoms of COVID-19, we have to don our PPE and only touch the one patient. Sometimes it has become difficult for the patient.

We medical professionals are risking our lives to save others. We need to be prepared to fight this battle. When I go for a shift, a lot of emotions come into the picture. My profession requires taking care of my patients selflessly, and I do it with all my devotion. But I always keep in mind that my slightest error can make things worse for myself as well as my family and my community.

I have had to spend a whole week in hospital without going home. I have had to quarantine for 14 days, only allowed to be released after negative PCR testing. I come to my home as a guest these days. My professional life has eclipsed my social and personal life. And I have no idea how long this will go on.

Thank you everyone for listening. I’ve just shared my feelings and experiences on behalf of all the nurses working in our COVID department.