When the COVID-19 pandemic hit us, the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) at Mount Sinai Queens, which usually consists of 14 beds, was converted into a COVID-19 ICU unit. The nurses on the team transitioned overnight as we began to care for critically ill COVID-19 patients. Our shifts changed, we had to adjust quickly to a high-stress environment, learn to don and doff PPE, and work with new team members we had never met before. A new challenge was dealing with so many deaths.
Some of the most difficult and saddest moments for us were not being able to save everyone and losing our patients without their family members at the bedside. Despite all the anxiety and fear of the unknown, we stood firm, worked together, and supported each other. We were able to overcome our fears and provide the best care to our patients.
We would like to commend Kelsey Moyer, RN, who had recently stepped up to the role of Clinical Nurse Manager. As a new manager, she was faced with many challenges. However, she was committed to keeping our team together and supporting us. Kelsey worked long hours and was always available if we had any questions or needed support. Special appreciation also goes out to our wonderful nursing assistants, who worked equally hard to assist us in caring for patients. And one of our nurses, Tenzin Kunsang, MS, RN, was also attending New York University in her final semester towards her MS, AGPCNP degree as she was caring for these sickest of patients.
During this crisis she stepped up for her patients’ families and co-workers and never lost her positive attitude. She kept pushing through with her schoolwork and caring for her patients every shift. Tenzin graduated on Wednesday, May 20, from New York University, unfortunately without a traditional ceremony and celebration. The PACU staff congratulates her for an amazing accomplishment during a difficult time. Tenzin truly exemplifies what it means to be a nurse in 2020.
Submitted by: Margaret Roche, RN; and Tak Mei Choy BSN, RN, PACU, Mount Sinai Queens