Voices from the front lines: 'I don't think I've had a single day that's looked like the other'

The very front of some of the front lines can be found at Interlude Transitional Care in Fridley. 

It's a special facility used only for COVID-19 patients right now.  It's a recovery site that was created about four weeks ago as part of a partnership between Allina Health and Presbyterian Homes and Services.

"It's not something you think about, it's what you do. It's totally in your nature," said Allina Health nurse practitioner Vanessa Kruse.

Right now Interlude is home to 24 COVID-19 patients. A place where some might admittedly be nervous to report for duty. However, Kruse says it is her calling.

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"It's kind of nerve-wracking, getting all dressed up and talking to patients through masks and shields," she said. "But you get used to it. The job doesn't look like it did two months ago."

Kruse also says she is caring for not only her patients' medical needs, but their emotional ones as well. Many feel isolated as visitor restrictions have prevented them from seeing friends and families. 

"A lot of these patients are experiencing isolation. They can't have visitors, so we are coordinating phone calls and video chats to meet their needs."

"I don't think I have had a single day that's looked like the other," Kruse said.