CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) – Some frontline workers said they are “exhausted” because patients occupy more than 80% of hospital beds available across the state and COVID units are approaching capacity.
The Medical University of South Carolina, Trident Medical Center and Roper Hospital run their own COVID units, and some nurses from all three hospitals shared their internal experiences.
“We are getting tired,” said MUSC nurse Laura Pelkey. “Across the state, I know that we are at the worst point we have ever seen.”
“It’s organized chaos,” said Trident nurse Sarah Young. “There’s a lot going on all the time. All of our beds are always full. There are always people in the waiting room. But, we all try to maintain a positive energy. “
“It’s been a challenge,” said Nurse Roper, Megan Higbie.
“There are days when you just get out of here and it can be disturbing, depressing, but there are also days when you see someone get better and get out of the ICU, and you know you played a role in helping them get out of here.”
As of Monday morning, 1,404 beds in intensive care units were occupied in South Carolina, and that is about 80% of all ICU beds available across the state. COVID patients fill more than 30 percent of them.
“We still have a full house,” said Higbie. “Patients arrive and stay a long time. This is probably the most challenging part of the job is that they arrive and stay for 20 to 30 days. “
Julie Wood is a respiratory coordinator at MUSC and said some changes are “emotional roller coasters”.
“You have days when you feel defeated, especially when you know that they can’t be with their loved ones in the end. It’s very, very difficult to watch, ”said Wood. “We are there to hold their hand and comfort them in these really difficult times.”
“Many tears, many hugs. We work hard to improve people because that is our vocation, ”said Trident nurse Laura Daugherty. “It is very difficult for us, because we want to help people.”
All the nurses agreed with many of their comments, but one that they all came back to was about the people they worked with.
“I can say that the only reason we can get through this year, and I’m still here, is because of my team,” said Young.
“The days are exhausting. I see exhaustion in my team, ”said Wood. “I feel their exhaustion, but it’s amazing how they appear day after day.”
Since the pandemic began, more than 5,700 South Carolinaians and more than 400,000 Americans have died from the virus. For more information on COVID-19 numbers, tests and vaccines, visit State Department of Health and Environmental Control website.
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