Health workers and COVID-19: Bonnie Heydeman
For more than 27 years, patients who have had surgery at Genesis Medical Center – East, have been cared for by Bonnie Heydeman. One constant with COVID-19 for surgical staff? Change, she said.
The amount of gear required to keep medical staff and patients safe increased. “We wear a mask when we get out of our car and go into the building, then out of the building and to our car. We always wear a mask in the building – we take it off to eat lunch and that’s it.” Specially fitted masks, N95 masks, cloth masks, face shields, eye goggles, and a contraption called a CAPR – they are
all part of the routine now.
Visitation times and number of people allowed in as visitors has also fluctuated over time. However, thanks to a texting system, the surgical team keeps in touch with families from the operating room, no matter where the family is during the procedure.
Hospital staff manage air pressure to decrease the opportunity for the virus to travel through the air, she said. The number of chairs in the breakroom are fewer.
The other constant, despite COVID? Bonnie loves her job – the people she takes care of and the people she works with.
Sue Grove
Bonnie, wouldn’t it be fun to have a mask that was your wonderful smile. I just know your smiling face would be a boon to your patients! We are fortunate to have you and people like you who are dedicated to your work and who love what they do.
Lisa Miller
Bonnie,
Thank you for your skills and service to us.
Medical heroes are so important.
Stay Safe!