STRENGTH aMiD a PanDeMiC Owatonna Hospital eR nurse perseveres against COViD-19
By MiCHelle VlaSaK michelle.vlasak@apgsomn.com
O
watonna Hospital emergency Department nurse trisha Foster-erickson has found strengths in communication and teamwork throughout the COViD-19 pandemic. nurses were challenged to adapt to the fast-moving changes and develop new routines in order to ensure the safety of themselves, colleagues and patients. Fostererickson said at the beginning of the pandemic, protocols were changing at least twice a day. Used to how things were operating for one shift, by the time she would arrive for her next shift, things were already different. though the road was rocky at times, Foster-erickson felt as if her coworkers were successful in communicating and updating each other. “i’m sure the communication definitely improved with all of the changes,” said Foster-erickson. “We all figured it out and helped one another.” Communication was not only important among coworkers, there was also an added importance of communication with patients, especially given the barriers created with mask wearing. Fostererickson said it was difficult being able to hear patients at times with the masks and shields on. early on, she recalls how difficult it must have been for hearing-impaired trisha Foster-erickson, pictured, has been working at owatonna hospital for two years this March. before she was an er nurse, Foster-erickson worked as a resource nurse, who trains to help all departments. (Photo courtesy of owatonna hospital emergency department)
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