Wigan ICU staff pledge to do all they can to help patients in moving video

Dressed in personal protective equipment, workers from the intensive care unit (ICU) filmed a video for the friends and relatives of people unable to visit patients due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The medics explained that they “understand how difficult and stressful” it is to have a loved one in hospital and not be able to be with them in their hour of need.

But they pledged to “do everything we can to make them better”, to pass on messages and to hold their hands.

Each line of the message was read by a different member of staff, all wearing blue scrubs and medical face masks to help prevent the spread of the disease.

They said: “To all the patients’ families, friends and loved ones, all those that can’t be with their relatives at this time, this is a message for you.

“We understand how difficult and stressful for you it is right now.

“We know you want to be with your loved one at this time.

“We know you want to comfort them and hold their hands, but we need to keep you safe.

“We will give them your message and send them your love.

“We promise to do everything we can to make them better.

“We promise to keep them comfortable.

“We promise to hold their hands and tell them you called.

“We promise to care with compassion.

“We will treat them with dignity and respect.

“Our team here has been working hard throughout this pandemic for you and your loved ones and we will continue to keep on fighting. Thank you.”

The video then includes moving photographs of staff at the hospital and ends with a picture of a knitted red heart.

Hundreds of people have viewed the video since it was posted on social media by Wrightington, Wigan and Leigh Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Non-executive director Lynne Lobley retweeted the post, saying: “This is absolutely the reassurance that families of our patients need to hear right now. Thank you for giving it in such a meaningful way.”

Nurse Sarah Hesketh tweeted: “Lucky to work with such a brilliant team. I am in awe every day.”

Critical care sister Nicola Bear said: “So proud to work with all these fabulous people going above and beyond everyday, giving their all always.”

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