PLANO, Texas — Fridays are typically busy for Emergency Departments, but this one stood out. One by one, people with possible symptoms of COVID-19 came into the emergency room at the Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Plano ED seeking care.

Amanda Schuler, B.S.N., R.N., CEN, works in the Emergency Department at Texas Health Plano.

“The process was very new, but we set up a designated area for possible COVID-19 patients to help control patient and staff exposure,” said Scott Flockhart, B.S.N., R.N., CEN, clinical nurse manager of the Emergency Department at Texas Health Plano.

Calls went out to the ED staff to ask if people could come in early and help patients in the designated “hot zone.”

Amanda Schuler, who has worked at the hospital since 2016, was one of the nurses who was ready and willing to help.

“We are used to high volume and acuity, but this is different,” said Schuler, B.S.N., R.N., CEN, a charge nurse in the Emergency Department at Texas Health Plano. “We have had to change our workflow to care for these patients and ensure the safety of both patients and staff. We are receiving new information daily and making on-the-spot adjustments.”

Over the past two weeks, Schuler and other nurses have picked up extra shifts. Flockhart said his team of “superheroes” have been flexible with their schedules while maintaining positive attitudes.

“This is another challenge that we must overcome,” Schuler said.

She’s grateful for the support from her team which she calls “a close-knit family.” Besides the daily clinical updates, nurse leaders have placed motivational signs throughout staff areas to keep spirits up during this difficult time.

“Everyone in this facility has come together to ensure we have what we need,” Schuler said. “I am overwhelmed by the support we have received from our leadership team and our community. Also, the food donations from surrounding restaurants have kept us going during our long shifts!”