Anesthesiologist-intensivist: 'Better dealing with the black hole after the ICU'

The Netherlands is in the grip of corona. Most people stay at home as much as possible, while healthcare providers are fighting the severe consequences of the virus and doing everything they can to do so. Marc Buise is an anesthesiologist-intensivist at the Catharina Hospital in Eindhoven. He is working hard on a cure for post-IC syndrome.

Marc Buise: ‘Before the corona crisis, people also died young or unexpectedly in the ICU. Even then we had to accompany families. But now there are 25 people with the same diagnosis. And not an average of 2 days, but 4 weeks. They receive very intensive care, but progress very slowly. That’s frustrating.

‘We now operate 12-hour shifts. The work is more intensive, I work more hours, I sleep a little worse, but I don’t find it stressful. As an intensivist you have to be able to switch quickly and adapt to new situations; basic competences that are now being challenged. That is difficult, but also exciting and fun.

‘During this period I made extra progress with the digital version of the Post-IC diary, in which care providers and family can store notes and (video) images. Such a diary helps patients after discharge from the ICU to deal with the black hole that the ICU period is ahead of them. It is now extra important, because the family is not allowed to come near the patient.

‘My work is my hobby and a way of life. If that work demands more of me now, I will do it. It is important to stay physically and mentally fit. I like to go for a run outside to clear my mind. It also helps that we work with a close-knit team.

‘With the protective clothing we have, we run little risk. At the same time, the disease is getting very close, now that (mid-April 2020, ed.) one of our employees is in the ICU. After a month I thought ‘if I don’t have it now, I won’t get it’, but that is not the case.’