You made sure members of the COVID-19 Unit, like Dr. Dan Wells, had the extensive PPE needed to treat Salem. But her sense of alarm was eased by knowing she was receiving exceptional care. “From that moment forward, I could not have asked for better care,” she said. “They were confident and comfortable with what they were doing. As a nurse, when you see that, you know they’ve done this before, and they know what they’re doing.” Sellars commended hospitalist Dr. Amber Thacker, COVID-19 Unit leader, and her team for putting her at ease by explaining what was happening. When she worried about intubation, they explained the other steps they would take first, like putting her on a higher flow of oxygen. Every new medication, every treatment, every potential side effect was presented with information and reassurance. I’m not used to being sick, so it was very scary. They eased my mind and told me I was going to be okay. They were nice and funny and positive, and that really helped me. No one acted like they were scared to be around me. SALEM SELLARS Her team made up for the fact that she couldn’t have visitors by supporting her as much as possible. “They asked me about my life and work and kids and husband, and they shared their lives with me too,” she said. “They really worked with me on a personal level, and they were so accommodating. They even let me wear my own pajamas!” Sellars ended up spending seven days in the hospital. After her release, she dealt with lingering shortness of breath, an elevated heart rate, and fatigue; and her liver enzymes must be monitored. But she’s grateful to be back to work and moving forward. Once she is completely better, she hopes to donate convalescent plasma to help other patients. She also hopes to serve as a good example for others. Sellars says her story shows exactly why people must take COVID-19 seriously. 8 Regional One Health Foundation
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