Just finished set of nights as senior intensive care registrar. I don't usually do this but wanted to share my #COVID19 experience. Its mad & nothing like anyone has seen before. I've worked on ICU for last year & this wave is worse than 1st with no signs of slowing down. 1/8

Everyone has been working so hard, putting on a brave face and really trying to keep spirits up. But I have seen more tears, frustration and exhaustion. Everyone is at breaking point. Morale is low and the workforce is burnout out and not sure how much more people can take. 2/8

With each night shift, we have been stretching ourselves uncomfortably thinner. Our ICU nurses who usually work 1:1 nurse: patient ratio are now stretching themselves even more and being asked to cope with up to 3 of the sickest patients in the hospitals. 3/8

We are running out of beds, ventilators, equipment and staff. However, we dont stop caring for those who need us - we just have to work even harder but this comes at a cost. Whether its a delay to patients receiving the care they need or stretching ourselves even more thinly. 4/8

Over the weekend, the low oxygen supply alarms started alarming. This means thinking very hard and making difficult decisions about how to conserve oxygen to help as many patients as possible. Hospitals around the country are declaring major incidents because of this issue. 5/8

Thanks to those who have helped, done extra shifts & looked after loved ones before/after shifts on front line. Thanks to those complying with government guidance & social distancing. Reducing risk of transmission is our biggest weapon & helps us with our battle. 6/8

For those who say COVID is a hoax, I don't have the energy to listen to the weak arguments. I feel sorry for you as you WILL regret ever thinking this if you or a loved one sadly becomes a patient & if we get to the point of rationing supplies and making difficult decisions. 7/8

When we ask you to stay safe, it affects you more than it affects us. There is no give in the system and Im not sure where the NHS will go from here. We are putting ourselves at risk and doing our bit, all we ask is that you please do yours. #HandsFaceSpace 8/8