THROUGH THE NURSES' LENS

See the COVID-19 pandemic through the nurses' lens. The current COVID-19 global pandemic has had a profound impact on the health care system and on the physical and psychological well-being of nurses. It is imperative that we hear the voices o f nurses who experienced the pandemic on the frontlines, and use their voices and recommendations to strengthen the health care system. Through the Nurses' Lens is an ambitious community photovoice project where twelve nurses from BC submitted photos through the first year of the global pandemic to share their lived experiences that parallel the collective experiences and stresses that we have all lived through. Five common themes emerged from the photos and discussions: The Work of Nursing, Miscommunication, Fatigue, Resilience, and Hope for the Future. Over 64 photos were received, and from these a story has emerged carrying impactful messages and a beautiful, emotional, and heartwarming collective experience.

Through the Nurses' Lens as presented in the Amelia Douglas Gallery includes highly personal moments that share nurses' lived experiences as they battled the global pandemic. From the lines left on a nurse's face from an N95 mask, to holding a patient's hand in their final moments of life, to colleagues coming together in difficult moments, this exhibit shares their stories with the world. It is more important than ever that we explore and reflect on nurses' experiences through this unprecedented time.

We invite you to experience Through the Nurses' Lens while discovering the stories behind the photos through the narratives attached to them. The photos proudly frame our unsung heroes and courageous souls in our shared experience. The voices of nurses and their experiences on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic need to be considered in pandemic planning and integrated into health care policy, guidelines, and structural changes. As citizens, we can use the messages from this exhibit to encourage government at all levels to support our nurses.

We would love to hear how you experienced Through the Nurses' Lens exhibit, and we encourage you to voice your support for front-line nurses by using the #nursesvoices hashtag on Instagram and Twitter.