COVID-19: Mobilizing Quickly for a Rapid Response

As patients, hospitals, and the scientific community deal with the rapidly evolving effects of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, nurses have been called on to respond quickly and in many roles. Direct patient care is undeniably an international, national, and local priority. Yet as we deliver that care, many clinical questions arise about how we, as frontline caregivers in a time of crisis, might “do it better.” For example, evidence regarding COVID-19 indicates the importance of frequent handwashing, maintaining a safe distance from others, and avoiding touching our faces, but how are we modeling these evidence-based behaviors for patients and their families? What is the best way to provide care in accordance with the new worldwide rules and regulations regarding personal protective equipment? How are we compassionately communicating with the loved ones of patients who are hospitalized while enforcing enhanced visitation restrictions...