“The outbreak of the epidemic has fundamentally changed life at the Department of Emergency Care.”, said Dr. Csilla Czimbalmos, cardiology resident of the Városmajor Heart and Vascular Centre, who was transferred to the department for the duration of the epidemic. In our series we are presenting the changes that the current epidemiological situation has brought upon the lives of the university staff working in different areas.
“The work of all of us has changed in some ways, the challenges are different, which make us face unusual situations that we have to stand up to.”, said Dr. Csilla Czimbalmos, cardiology resident of the Városmajor Heart and Vascular Centre, who has been transferred to the Department of Emergency Care at the Outer Clinical Block.
Due to the epidemiological situation, the staff working at the Department of Emergency Care has been extended by specialists, residents and nurses from other clinics. This creates an effective multidisciplinary environment which facilitates knowledge exchange as well.
“The emergency departments all around the world are the first line of care in COVID-19, functioning as a kind of gateway, so their work is paramount in containing the epidemic. My colleagues have an amazingly positive attitude and perseverance that is very inspiring. Volunteering students of medicine are also actively involved in patient care.”, she said.
Life at the Department of Emergency Care has changed completely, a so-called “red zone” has been set up for patients suspected of being infected by the coronavirus. Work at the “red zone” is often challenging, so strong cooperation and teamwork is essential.
“Due to the protective suits and the unusual environment, good communication and empathy with patients are crucial. Patient examination also has unusual elements, such as the routine use of pulmonary ultrasound instead of the phonendoscope. ”, she said.
Her personal relationships have been constricted, which she finds difficult to handle but tries to keep in touch with her family members and support each other from a distance.
“In this trying period it is essential that we spend time on ourselves. I find sport to relax me the most. Even if I have to give up on double tennis games for a while, I always find a way to do some physical exercises.”, Dr. Czimbalmos said.
Bernadett Bódi
Photo: Attila Kovács – Semmelweis University
Translation: Ágnes Raubinek
