12 April 2020

Hannah is a newly qualified nurse who usually works on our wards, caring for patients before and after surgery. 

However, like many other nurses in the NHS, she is now working in our critical care department caring for patients who are seriously ill with COVID-19. 

“Today is my first full shift and I’m learning with supervision from a critical care nurse. Until I came down for a half shift the other day I don’t think it really hit me what it is like in critical care at the moment. I’m not used to caring for patients who aren’t awake and all the machines – like the ventilator and ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) machines – are new to me.” 

“It’s a bit scary at first and a real learning curve, especially as I only qualified in September last year. But I’m glad to be able to help and once you get used to the machines you realise it is just normal nursing and looking after the patient in front of you.”

“It’s really nice knowing that the whole country is behind us and supporting us. I feel a bit embarrassed when people thank us sometimes as we’re just doing our jobs but it does make a difference.” 

 

Our charitable appeal is aiming to raise vital funds for staff support, research, and patient welfare. Find out more about The Royal Papworth Hospital COVID-19 Appeal