It’s Madison and Tanner here, another week has passed here in Mongu and it feels like just yesterday we were reflecting and blogging about our previous week here.
This week we were placed on the surgical ward and in the operating room (theatre). We worked closely with many doctors, clinical officers, nurses and nursing students who all provided us with different learning opportunities.
We would start every morning “damp dusting” which consisted of us cleaning the ward with wet gauze as this was their means of infection control. Afterwards we would participate in rounds with the doctor and clinical officer students where we were drilled on medical information and sent home with homework for the questions we could not answer. This was an amazing opportunity to learn although intimidating at times. We participated in dressing changes, many on ward procedures and learned how to make use of limited resources in a highly acute environment. We admired their creativity although it was challenging for us at times coming from a place with an abundance of specialized medical supplies and diagnostic testing equipment. The ward is often out of regularly used supplies, the diagnostic equipment often breaks down and the blood bank is frequently dry. These were some issues that we have not come across in our Canadian practice which made it hard for us to wrap our head around.
A highlight of this week was our time spent in the operating theatre. We would head there every day after lunch and observed many procedures including a tumor removal, ORIF of the ulna, 2 ceasars (c-sections) and abdominal surgeries. We weren’t under the impression we would get to see any babies be born but were very excited when one of the clinical officers invited us into his theatre to watch our first births. Tanner was standing at the bedside with the ambu bag in hand eager to resuscitate where as Madison was standing with the mom sharing happy tears and welcoming her new baby girl. All the surgeries went smoothly although there were some close calls but the very talented staff pulled through and taught us while doing so.
As we reflect on the last week we have realized how much we have learned, both in and out of the hospital. We have had the opportunity of being a part of some individuals toughest days and some of their best days (seeing two healthy baby girls join us in this world). We only have 2 more weeks of our final practicum and bachelors degree and what a journey it has been!
Thanks for reading and stay tuned for next weeks post! Tanner will be at Sefula rural health clinic while also doing 2 days of child health at one of the local schools. Madison will be placed at Limulunga rural health clinic working with people of all ages and all different backgrounds unsure of what will walk through the door.
Sending love from Mongu,
Madison and Tanner
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