Thread by @cdichang

I've had too many patients die in these past weeks. As a physician, you would think it gets easier to tell families that their loved one died the more times you have to do it.

It doesn't.

#COVID19 #EmergencyMedicine @HarborUCLAEM @californiaacep
1/x

I've been running code after code, but most patients don't make it. After coming out of the room, I finally start humanizing the situation and gathering the strength to speak to family members to deliver the bad news. It is then when I realize that a human life was lost
2/x

What hurts the most is having to deliver the news outside of the hospital or by phone. Most of my patients aren't allowed to have their loved ones at their side when they are nearing death or even after because of the pandemic
3/x

Try walking outside of the hospital and telling a woman that she can't see her husband of 25yrs who is dying because he is a person under investigation for #COVID19. She cries and says "Why? I have to be with him right now". I know and you have no idea how much I want you to
4/x

I break the news and I see families cry. I feel their pain and tear up, but keep it together because I have to. I can't hold their hand or get close enough to offer support. They thank me for my time, telling me that they know my time is important and limited
5/x

I remind them as I remind myself, that today is probably the worst day of their life, and they deserve my time and absolute attention. I may not remember this later on, but they will remember this moment for the rest of their lives. It is my duty to ensure I do it right
6/x

If you are at home, you are privileged to be at home. Don't take for granted having your family at your side, your roof, and your walls. No one is taking away your "freedom" or "rights" - we are ensuring everyone's safety and we all also wish to be home but can't
7/x

We also need to stop mixing politics with public health. I want #Facts over politics, so no, we are NOT ready to reopen the country. I want more tests and I want more protection for all #HealthCareWorkers - so
#GetMePPE #StayAtHome and let's #FlattenTheCurve
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