KOTA KINABALU: The experience of treating those infected with Covid-19 from the Tabligh congregation cluster has left a profound impression on a young nurse.
Natalia Aivy Dibit, 27, admitted she was initially angry with those who attended the Tabligh event, assuming the group was the cause of the Covid-19 spike in Labuan.
"But when I treated them, the negative impressions I had faded and I felt ashamed of myself. My work stress disappeared after dealing with them as they were very cooperative.
"I can never forget when one of them told me no matter who I am and what my religion is, I am doing an honourable job," she said when contacted today.
Dibit, who is attached to Labuan Hospital, said being part of the frontliners was a very challenging task especially when dealing with patients who were emotionally distressed.
"We have to deal with their emotions besides conducting samples, vital sign routines and so on. But I understand that they are very stressed too.
"If possible, I hope to sit with each patient for a longer time and talk to them. However, the situation does not allow it. It can be difficult to breathe too if you talk too much while wearing personal protective equipment (PPE).
"Our personal appearance is also affected because after removing the PPE, we are required to shower using Chlorexidine 4% body wash soap. This soap makes the skin dry and causes hair to drop, with some areas of the scalp starting to show.
"Depending on the situation, we sometimes shower five times a day," said Dibit, adding she has been working longer hours since the Covid-19 pandemic started.
She said the hospital management had added more staff and revised work schedules to allow them to work 12-hour shifts for three days and then rest before working for another three days 12-hour shifts.
She said her superiors had helped lift their spirits and listened to their complaints, adding they have to be emotionally strong as frontliners.
Dibit, who is also a novelist with many followers on her Facebook, is also doing her part in creating awareness on the dangers of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Making use of social media, she would often write various posts and share updates on the coronavirus.
"The frontliners must continue to fight because society needs us. We must win and achieve success. Take care of yourselves and your health.
"To the community, we do not ask for much. Only prayers and words of encouragement. We are responsible to break the virus chain. Obey the government's orders and stay home," she said.