An Intensive Care Unit Day Poem by Deanna Samuels

As I sit here at the volunteers' desk in the ICU
helping and watching anxious visitors come and go,
here to see their loved ones in dire straits of health,
some on knife's edge of drawing last breath,
others holding fast, good chance of full recovery,
my heart is wrenched at their nervous approach
where so many of us have walked before.

The visitor quickly enters the Unit to patient's room,
sits by the bedside of a parent, or worse, their child,
or perhaps an uncle or aunt or a true best friend,
staring at patient, who, not able to respond as
wired up with tubes, masks and life-saving machines.
However, there are those patients fully conscious,
faculties sharp, enjoying the company of their visitor,
exchanging memories of the good times past.

Doctor's rounds, an important time of day,
their and their entourage giving full attention
to the patient's needs, examining, reading notes,
giving further instructions for nurses to carry out.
A nearby relative is advised with updated account,
maybe good news, patient leaving Unit or better,
able to go home. Patient uplifted, get back to life.

One sees each day, devoted nurses, doctors and
supporting staff, give of their utmost to ensure
the very best treatment is given to every patient.
Most days are long and hard with no let-up,
crises occurring on daily basis, whatever the problem,
staff cope with, smiling, patients' find comforting,
friendly, helping to overcome the necessary stay.

The Intensive Care Unit, the ICU, is a non-stop
round the clock facility, a never closing department
to take care of those most vulnerable and ill.
When it's time for my shift to end and go home,
am thankful there is such a wonderful facility,
knowing my fellow citizens are being well cared for,
whatever the time, night or day.
Kudos to all our hospital staff in whatever capacity.


Written at Richmond Hill, Ontario - 28th August 2024