A Hidden Cost of COVID

A discussion of hospital visitor policies during the COVID pandemic, and the current case for relaxing them.

#COVID #coronavirus

[StrongMed]

Honest questions and respectful debate are most welcome! But comments which invoke overt pseudoscience and conspiracy theories will be removed, as will those which are profane, insulting, or otherwise inflammatory.

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[jessicah]

My dad took 11 days to pass away from cancer in an ICU and then hospice care. I couldn't imagine not being there with him in his last days. That was when the family started coping and grieving because we knew what was coming. I can't imagine that not happening now and the emotional pain the surviving family members are going through.

Also as a patient who is in hospitals and doctors offices pandemic or not; it helps so much to have another person there when I am getting so much information in my short 10 minute meetings with the doctor.

[cruelsniperify]

Could not agree with you more Dr. Strong. As a pulmonologist and icu physician who has to tell patients' families on a daily basis how critically ill they are, these policies create a large moral strain on my psyche. Often nurses want me to "have the discussion" about visitation policies. I simply do not have the energy, bandwidth, nor lack of empathy to tell a patients' loved one they can't visit their family member today because both siblings came and administration only allows one visitor daily.

[CCSABCD]

The impact visits make is so underrated by doctors, it's so helpful and improves patients outcomes so much that it's mindblowing they are ignored.

[miki]

I commend you on tackling a critical issue. this is plagued me as a hospitalist myself. These policies send the wrong message also to our trainees. Preach. from Atlanta.

[VitaSoyHK]

Thank you. As a nurse who had an immigrant parent in hospital a few months ago for an extended period of time - I completely agree with all of your points and hope more hospitals start agreeing. It was an extremely difficult situation for my parent as well as for us family members not being allowed to be there for them.

[spookygreg]

I was tested for covid before my recent procedure. When I was there, I wore a mask until I was in the OR. I thought it was fine. I like that in my follow up, I can still go in person. Since I don’t see other people often, I’m kind of excited for the appointment!

[NDtoker]

I had to do this yesterday as a nurse. was brutal as the family member is in rough shape but not actively dying but he has been with us for 3 months in the icu 6 times and they still only allow covid visitation rules

[nickgowen]

Thanks Eric. This video nudged me to be more vocal about the visitation issue, as I agree with you as usual.

[saabsonsan]

This is not just a phenomena of American institutions. This has been a world wide reaction to and side effect of COVID response

[okidokidoc]

Great discussion about the current situation around the world. Hope you keep em coming, doc!

[colinpetermuir]

Agree. Identical situation in Scotland.

[mangotangochick]

It is really heartbreaking to see families being separated by first illness and then institution. I understand the social responsibility a hospital has, but the inability to be there for suffering loved ones in their times of need is quite a drastic measure. The restrictions seem to need some revision and more thoughtful consideration that is more suited to the current climate of COVID.

[JABDUDE]

Can you make a video about the endocannabinoid system?

[storytime]

I wish there was some kind of spray like in movies that disinfects you when you go in a chamber and come out "clean" And disinfected lol.

[btggaming]

Sir i am very sorry for disturbing you but my nani is coughing 2 years she is a ild patient you are doctor sir his age is 75 please tell me wich time my nani in earth🌎

[deniz]

what about from persons who get covid when they are with their patient with their own patient care. or when completely covid free becomes covid + in-hospital duration. you cant say they do not exist. Who will take responsibility of this person's risks. because staff doesn't have time to always look after them. do you want to see a family take an other hit with another loss. i don't know your country but here we are semipermeable. and even this semipermeablty creates an inequality sense.