Last update:

   04-Jun-2021
 

Arch Hellen Med, 38(3), May-June 2021, 343-350

REVIEW

Covid-19: A short review of the therapeutic approaches and challenges faced by intensive care unit nurses

T. Papamitsou,1 Α. Lionta,1 L. Mpouga,1 D. Kavvadas,1 Z. Aidoni,2 Α. Sioga1
1Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki,
2Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Clinic, Department of Surgery, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece

Covid-19 disease causes severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and it is a potentially deadly disease with a tremendous global health impact. The outbreak of Covid-19 has resulted in many more confirmed cases and deaths worldwide than the SARS epidemic of 2003 and the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) outbreak of 2013. The Covid-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges worldwide. In addition, the origin of Covid-19 has not been determined and no specific antiviral therapy or vaccine was available at the time of writing. Intensive care units (ICUs) face enormous challenges from the pandemic worldwide and must be well prepared for the needs that arise. Greece experienced the first "wave" of the novel coronavirus and, like all the other nations, is going through a second major crisis. Increased preparedness in the field of health and especially of ICUs is of major importance. The ICUs and the professionals that staff them are the main front in the "battle" against this modern pandemic that is wreaking havoc on our planet.

Key words: Coronavirus, Greece, Intensive care units, Nurses, Treatment.


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