With no clear end in sight to the pandemic, stress levels are rising along with COVID cases.
Bluewater Health's chief of staff is pleading for patience from the community.
Dr. Mike Haddad told Sue Storr on CHOK(103.9FM/1070AM) Monday, that the pandemic is taking a toll on everyone, and the stress level felt across the community is bleeding into the hospital.
"This has been an awful pandemic for everyone on many levels, work, businesses, health, people sick and people missing school," said Dr. Haddad. "Everybody is stressed out, especially when for example, their surgeries get cancelled and everyone really needs to have their cases done, etc."
Dr. Haddad said there has been a spike in the number of incidents where staff are dealing with threats, or unruly patients and visitors.
"We take all these threats seriously," he said. "I am concerned, there's more than before and I understand that everyone is stressed out and some people reach their breaking point, but I really plead with everyone to just be kind and stay civil. Our staff is overworked and they're doing their best. The hospital didn't create this pandemic, we're just dealing with the consequences of it."
Dr. Haddad said many staff members are working double-time and some have come out of retirement to help with shortages.
To listen to Monday's community update, click here.
Sarnia Fire and Rescue Captain Roy Eddleston said the fire department, Sarnia Police Service, Point Edward Fire and Lambton EMS have planned a drive-by at Bluewater Health in support of healthcare workers at 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 18.
Local residents are encouraged to come out and show their support as well.
