Lessons I Learned From A Pandemic

By Ava Sammarco

As a registered practical nurse fighting on the frontlines of COVID-19, this past year was one of the most challenging, frightening, and critical moments for me as a nurse. It tested all of us in ways I never imagined and confronted me with grief from a completely new perspective. It showed me the vulnerability of patients and their unique health needs and the impact of what happens when one is forced to be separated from their social network supports and family. The things you have to do to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.  

As a nurse who has faced this pandemic full force since Day 1, I have faced, and overcome many barriers; learned, and continue to learn more about becoming resilient to the pressures of my work. This has never been truer in long-term care (LTC) which has been hit the hardest. The LTC sector has experienced the least favorable outcomes with record-high patient deaths across many communities. This pandemic has pushed nurses to become more and more resilient with fewer resources and greater responsibilities. It has however taught me about leadership and the absolute necessity of working as a team. Working with one’s team members towards a common goal is what gets you through. It never ceases to amaze me how sharing little moments of joy and laughter can make a difference. Being creative and leading by example is the name of the game. 

One of the greatest challenges I have faced during the pandemic has been having to call families to tell them their loved ones have died, in many cases due to COVID. I still remember the long silence that follows. I have found it’s difficult to find the right words and say them in the most compassionate and sensitive way possible. Sometimes the simple act of listening can mean everything to that family member. Shock can be unbearable even if one thinks they are prepared for the bad news.  

So, how have I overcome adversity in the face of COVID-19 this past year? I have constantly reminded myself of my contributions and what this healthcare crisis can teach me. I have also thought about my own self-care and the need to be connected to my passions, now more than ever. I am staying physically active with running. I stay connected with close friends, even if it’s a little different now than it was before. As nurses on the frontlines, we all need to keep telling ourselves: we are in this together and there will be better times ahead, no doubt. We must keep fighting for it no matter what! 


Bio‐ Stephanie Horner, RPN

My name is Stephanie and I am a Registered Practical Nurse in Toronto, ON. I began my nursing education at George Brown College, graduating from Ryerson University. I further continued my education at Humber College where I graduated with Honors in 2016. I have gained a diverse nursing background in many different roles including PSW experience and have provided care in the community including rehabilitation, home care, retirement, and long-term care with a focus on geriatrics. My very first nursing experience was at a summer camp and I was the only nurse on site. Talk about utilizing those problem-solving skills!  

I have also gained many skills in de-escalation and Gentle Persuasive Approaches interventions for responsive behaviors while working with patients facing cognitive impairments such as Dementia. I have also received recognition for excellence in Geriatrics. I remain committed to professional development and have completed courses such as Post-Grad Patient Assessment, Coronary Care Nursing 1, Wound Care, Hospice and Palliative Care Fundamentals, and Medication Administration, to name a few. I am a very active and proud member of the Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario and am very keen to pursue career goals in acute care nursing roles including further developing my experience and skills in nursing specialties such as rehabilitation. Outside of work, I am enthusiastic about fitness and long-distance running and have enjoyed many musicals!

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Lessons I Learned From A Pandemic

As a registered practical nurse fighting on the frontlines of COVID-19, this past year was one of the most challenging, frightening, and critical moments for me as a nurse.

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