10 COVID-19 INFORMATION

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CORONAVIRUS COVID-19

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According to the CDC, since there is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. As far as the CDC knows based on the information and data gathered thus far, the virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person. The respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes can travel and land in the mouths or noses of individuals who are nearby (within about 6 feet) or possibly be inhaled into the lungs which puts that person at risk.

At this point, steps to protect yourself are staying home, cleaning your hands often, and avoiding close contact by social distancing.

CORONAVIRUS COVID-19

If you are sick, stay home and isolate yourself from others in the home. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow, throw used tissues in the trash, and immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

Be sure to clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. These surfaces includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks. Clean them with detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection. Complete this steps often at home to ensure cleanliness.

If you begin to experience severe symptoms such as loss of breath or high fever, you should call the hospital upon your arrival to let them know you’re on the way. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a serious disease, a disease that is taking the lives of people around the world and unfortunately, the number of confirmed cases continues to increase especially in hot spots of the nation; therefore, we as Americans must take necessary precautions for our health and wellbeing. Statistics don’t lie so let’s make a solid, collective effort to not become a part of that statistic. Let’s stay inside to stay alive.

A God-fearing, educated, talented woman with a clear understanding of her purpose. A woman full of life, simply striving to make the lives of others better by the treatment of their health. At a time where the public health of every community is at stake due to COVID-19, Barnes is doing her part by ensuring her family, friends and patients are receiving their daily doses of faith, love and joy. Meet this issue’s legend, now.

Who is Danielle Barnes?

I would describe myself as being someone with a bubbly and super optimistic personality. I love life and believe in living life to the fullest. I have a heart for people and I am very passionate about helping others and educating people about their health. I graduated from The University of Alabama at Birmingham (Go Blazers!) in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. After working as an RN in the Birmingham metro area, I began working as a travel nurse, which was such an amazing experience. After returning home, I began to further my education and in 2017, I graduated with a Master of Science in Nursing from Troy University (Go Trojans!). I am currently working as a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner in Huntsville, Alabama. I love spending time with my family and friends. I enjoy exercising and I am a licensed Zumba instructor (however, I have not taught in a while). I absolutely love traveling, reading, serving at my church, amusement parks, and going to concerts.

Why did you decide to pursue a career in medicine?

Since I was a little girl, I have always loved helping people. I have been a “people-person” my entire life, and I’ve never met a stranger. When I was younger, I would love to go with my parents to visit our elderly or ill family members. I used to “play doctor” and I even had those little toy doctor kits with a stethoscope, thermometer, and syringes. When I was in the 11 th grade, I took a Human Anatomy class, and I was fascinated with learning about how the human body works. I did extremely well in the class, and after talking to my teacher, she recommended that I research a career in nursing. After doing some initial research, I also spoke with my aunt, who is also a nurse. My desire to help people and my attraction to the medical profession is what helped me decide to pursue a career in nursing.

What’s the role of a Family Nurse Practitioner?

A Family Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse who manages people’s health with a focus on disease prevention and health promotion. Most nurse practitioners have a master’s degree in nursing; however, some may have a doctorate degree in nursing. We can work in a variety of settings such as clinics, hospitals, urgent care facilities, and schools. We can also work in various specialties, such as primary care, women’s health, and pediatrics. We have the option to obtain certifications to be able to specialize in various specialties, as well. Many times, especially nowadays, when you go to the doctor’s office you will more than likely see a nurse practitioner instead of a doctor.

How are you handling this COVID-19 pandemic?

Overall, I am handling it well. This is something I have never seen or experienced in my career. I have had to adapt to several changes in general, and especially in the area of patient care. I am having to adjust to what seems to be my “new normal.” I don’t think anyone was fully prepared for the impact that COVID-19 would have on us, or the panic and uncertainty that came along with it. There has also been a nationwide shortage of personal protective equipment, and that has been an issue, as well. The way we provide patient care is different now. We are limiting our “in-person” appointments, cancelling and rescheduling non-vital appointments, and utilizing telemedicine as much as possible. We are having to practice social distancing by not allowing anyone in the waiting rooms.

How has your life changed due to COVID-19?

My perspective on what I do as a healthcare provider has definitely changed. I think now more than ever, I have a greater appreciation for what God has called me to do. For that, I am thankful. I am so grateful to be able to serve others in my role as a nurse during this time. I also deeply appreciate all of the other essential and frontline workers that have worked tirelessly during this time.

In your opinion, is it too early to reopen the country?

Yes! I truly believe it is. There are still a very high number of cases and deaths daily, and this is something that I believe should be taken very seriously. It is very concerning to know that even with the alarming number of cases that many states are opening back up. It is going to be hard to see a decrease in the number of cases if people are not staying home most of the time. Social distancing will help, but that is only if people actually follow that order.

As a healthcare professional, what advice would you provide to the public during this difficult time?

Be informed, be cautious, but do not panic. We cannot allow fear to consume us. Maybe we don’t need to watch every single COVID-19 update on the news. Maybe you should give yourself a mental break from everything. Of course, wash your hands, use wisdom when going out in public places, and practice social distancing as much as possible.

Let’s talk about you book “Daily Doses”, what was the inspiration behind its creation?

Working in the healthcare field is extremely rewarding, yet extremely challenging-mentally, physically, and emotionally. When I first began my journey in healthcare, I searched for faith-based resources to help me deal with the challenges that come with working in healthcare. Unfortunately, I realized that there were not many devotionals specifically for healthcare professionals; so, I decide to write one! Daily Doses: 31 Days of Inspiration for Healthcare Professionals is a 31-day devotional designed to provide encouragement and moments of devotion for healthcare professionals. Each day is equipped with a devotional, a daily dose of quotes or affirmations you can recite throughout the day, and a prayer to jumpstart your daily conversations with God.

Do you plan on writing a second book? If so, any topics already in mind.

Eventually, yes. I would love to write another devotional and also write a book for new nurses.

Name three songs that bring you joy.

“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” -Whitney Houston “I Just Called To Say I Love You” -Stevie Wonder “Alright” -Janet Jackson

Share your favorite quote.

“Stand up straight and realize who you are, that you tower over your circumstances. You are a child of God. Stand up straight.” -Maya Angelou

Who’s a legend to you and why?

Hands down, my parents are living legends. They taught me at an early age to always keep God first, and to always dream big. They have always instilled in me the importance of fulfilling my God-given purpose and have been so supportive of me and my brother and in everything that we have done. They have been the perfect example of doing just that; keeping God first, and fully operating in their gifts. They both have a heart for people and they love to serve others. They are admired by so many and they leave a mark on any and every person they encounter. My brother and I are truly blessed to have such legendary parents!