Patti Gilliano - Hospital Shutdowns and Nurse Layoffs During COVID-19 #4

Host Steve Reiter converses with Patti Giliano, a seasoned psychiatric nurse practitioner, about the intense challenges faced during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tune in as Patti recounts the widespread hospital shutdowns influenced by corporate and CDC directives, which led to significant nurse layoffs and halted crucial medical operations. She shares her personal COVID-19 battle, struggles for necessary care, and recovery using alternative treatments. Patti also explores the impacts of patient isolation, the supply chain crisis, and the community's incredible response. Her story highlights the clash between following guidelines and upholding patient well-being, advocating for family presence in patient care. Join us for an eye-opening discussion about the realities of Healthcare during the pandemic and the fight to uphold every patient's right. Outline: (00:03) Healthcare visiting policies relaxed significantly pre-pandemic. (06:52) Relocation before COVID pandemic panic and preparations. (15:47) Questioning mandates and restricting family visits' necessity. (23:33) Inconsistent iPad use and ignored nurse concerns caused resignations. (27:59) Overly incentivized nurse travel led to issues. (36:40) Limited nurse interaction; improper equipment use concerns. (39:36) Hospital discharge despite unchanged condition; miscommunication occurred. (45:23) Sought off-label medication, fearing long-haul symptoms. (53:15) Masks hinder human connection and empathy negatively. (54:40) Post-COVID: Human connection lost to digital communication. (01:01:23) Prioritize patients over profits; rethink healthcare priorities.     About the Guest: Patti Giliano began her nursing career over 38 years ago as a fresh-faced nurse in the mid to late eighties. Initially unsure of what the profession would hold, she quickly adapted and thrived in various healthcare environments. Throughout the eighties and nineties, Patti focused primarily on the perioperative arena, amassing a wealth of experience in various surgeries, including orthopedics, cardiovascular, and neurosurgery. Her dedication and expertise naturally propelled her into leadership roles, marking an exciting and impactful career in nursing. About The Host:  Steve Reiter is the founder of the Never Alone Project and the host of its podcast, "Every Patient's Right, Ending Isolation and Healthcare." He lost his wife to forced isolation on May 19, 2020, and believes no one should die alone. The show delves into the significant issue of forced medical isolation, examining its profound effects on patients and exploring ways to balance essential medical care with the nurturing human contact that aids healing and recovery. The show is a platform for exploring the balance between medical needs and the basic human care that aids patient recovery. Steve's dedication to this cause highlights his commitment to advocating humane treatment in healthcare settings. Steve's work underscores the critical importance of human connection inHealthcaree, making his podcast a significant platform for addressing these pressing issues.   Share your story, learn more, listen, and subscribe at  neveraloneproject.org