(WSIL) -- The latest spike in coronavirus cases has been causing some stress for local nurses.
SIH Nurse Bailey Johnston says when it comes to treating COVID-19 patients, the past two weeks have been rough.
"It's been a very trying, difficult time. I just kind of want to be honest with--with my emotions and say that it has been very difficult to see these patients," she said.
She says lately, she's been seeing the most vulnerable patients.
"Most of the patients that I take care of are very critical and their status can change quickly within minutes and so we have to monitor them closely," she said.
And says it can be difficult to see them isolated from loved ones.
"We serve not only as their nurses, but sometimes as their family because we are the only point of contact that they see while they're here," she said.
She says the virus should be taken seriously.
"It's hard to know how to react to those people that have that mindset. I think it's really easy when you're out in the community and you've not been affected by the virus to have those opinions," she said.
She hopes people will contiue to follow safety guides and stop the spread
"It's definitely real and I urge you, SIH urges you to wear your mask, socially distance, wash your hands and be smart," she said.
SIH told News 3 they are preparing to expand, to treat even more COVID-19 patients.
