COVID 19 patients
I spoke with my DIL last night. The hospital unit she manages has only COVID 19 infected patients admitted right now. Almost all of the patients in her unit are elderly. Among others, they admitted 17 patients from one nursing home on the same day. Eight patients have passed away, those that have passed ranged in age from 70 to 98 years old.
What has to be taken into account on this is that all of these patients had a Do Not Resuscitate status prior to becoming infected with COVID 19. Of course I do not know the details of their health history. 70 years old is young to have a DNR status but I do not know their prior medical history. Having a DNR status doesn't mean do not treat, but it does mean treatments such as intubation, ventilators, and, in most cases, vasoactive IV medications, among other treatments would not be initiated. Standard IV fluids, medications, supplementary oxygen, pain control, nutrition, etc. would be provided to support the patient enhancing the chances of recovery.
Just a small example of what is going on in one hospital unit in one city.
What has to be taken into account on this is that all of these patients had a Do Not Resuscitate status prior to becoming infected with COVID 19. Of course I do not know the details of their health history. 70 years old is young to have a DNR status but I do not know their prior medical history. Having a DNR status doesn't mean do not treat, but it does mean treatments such as intubation, ventilators, and, in most cases, vasoactive IV medications, among other treatments would not be initiated. Standard IV fluids, medications, supplementary oxygen, pain control, nutrition, etc. would be provided to support the patient enhancing the chances of recovery.
Just a small example of what is going on in one hospital unit in one city.
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