Just like many of you, I have and will continue to go through changes during these challenging times.

My Journey So Far

Since our outpatient testing lab has closed, I have been deployed to assist the acute care respiratory therapy (RT) team. I have been working in Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) labs exclusively for the past 5 years.   This has made me re-assess my awareness of acute care practices. I pulled out old notes and textbooks, and have been studying daily to refresh my knowledge.  I had to reintroduce myself and get comfortable with specific ventilators and equipment (and get trained on some new ones).   Being back in acute care, even in a supporting role, has made me feel vulnerable.  I want to help the team in patient-care without being a burden to the team, without expressing false confidence, and without making mistakes that can impact patient care (and my licence to practice).

Continuous Support and Learning

Going forward, I will continue to help the acute care RTs in my hospital with steps that can make their lives easier which includes keeping an eye on the inventory, making ‘grab and go’ packages, circuiting vents, being the runner, and looking after simple respiratory assessments.  On my own time, I will continue to review my RT knowledge using available resources such as my textbooks, notes, online videos and courses, networks and colleagues.  I’ll be honest with myself and colleagues about my weaknesses and strengths, asking questions when needed, while trying to be mindful and aware of stress levels.

My Supportive Network

This transition has not been simple, but I am lucky to have a lot of support.  The RT team at Markham-Stouffville Hospital has been very supportive.  My fellow deployed RTs are amazing in team-work and supporting each other.  Thanks to all the acute care RTs, and other healthcare providers, for all your hard work.  I want to give a shoutout to the team at RTSO who have been understanding and supportive of my deployment.  Also, to RT’s like Thomas Piraino, who are contributing to knowledge sharing and best practices for Mechanical Ventilation in this crisis. Tom, I don’t know how you manage all this! Research, clinical work,  publications, family and still have time to do daily Mechanical Ventilation Q & A sessions (6 pm on his Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/respresource/ ). Your contribution to the RT profession is much appreciated!

Also, a big shoutout to my amazing wife, who supports me through all these challenging times.  I am lucky to have strong family support in my life!

Take Care of Yourself

Be honest with yourself about your strengths and weaknesses. Navigating a new environment, at work and in life, can be scary and it tests us.  Even though we may be trained, competent and capable, we all have doubts once in a while.   I know its hard to take a moment for yourself in a time of crisis, but we also need to be mindful of our own physical and mental health so we can help our patients as well. 

Final Thoughts

These are unique and challenging times.  We are in this together! I am going to finish this post with a quote from Brené Brown (Daring Greatly. 2012).

“Sometimes the bravest and most important thing you can do is just show up.”

Be safe,

Farzad Refahi
April 11, 2020
https://www.respiratory.blog/inthistogether/