And now it is magnified by a coronavirus, the cause of a worldwide pandemic. A steady influx of patients arrives for treatment. Staff in the emergency department often feel overwhelmed. They are taxed physically and mentally. Assessing and treating patients takes more time because there is a process for nurses to protect themselves.

A time of traditions and celebrations looks different this year. There will be fewer office parties, holiday gatherings and opportunities to overindulge in food and drink, which health-wise may be a good thing.