My favorite day in Africa so far

It was a Wednesday, Feb 10, 2010, the third day of clinical for us at the Lewanika General Hospital. I went to clinical, just like I had for the two days prior. Upon arrival at the hospital it was determined that one of us could go to the Maternal Child Health Clinic if we wanted. I, always one for trying new things, volunteered to go. The day began in the Out Patient’s Department (OPD), and I worked with a nurse who was substituting for a clinical officer ( like a physician assistant). the nurse would gather pertinent information – such as the patient’s chief complaints/symptoms, and do an assessment to the best of her ability. She would then explain to me what her impression or diagnosis was of the patient’s condition. She could then order antibiotics, analgesics, anti-inflammatory medications, and other lab tests or blood work, which was surprising to me how much responsibility and autonomy that she has, as in Canada RN’s typically do not practice in this kind of role. In western society we often rely on technology before we make any assessments or decisions. We saw a variety of conditions that morning, everything from Respiratory Tract Infections, to possible malaria, possible HIV and STIs as well as other ailments. A lot of this work was done using basic pen and paper and a stethoscope, as well as the nurses hands for tools. After some time in this clinic I was shuffled over to an antenatal clinic, where we recorded a history of pregnant mothers, and entered this information by hand onto a paper logbook “record”. I had the nurse be with me to translate the local Lozi language to English. Moving without a break we went to the antenatal clinic where we performed head to toe physical assessments. Again, no technology was used in performing these, I admired the skills that these nurses have in doing this kind of work. After this I went to an area where they were testing for STI’s and HIV via smears on slides. The nurses never cease to amaze me at how multi-talented, and multi-functional they are, continuously working without breaks and doing double shifts. They are a wealth of information and I have already learned so much from being there on just that one day. I left the hospital that day feeling like my purpose for being here had really started, that I was going to make a difference in the world, half a world away from home. Stay tuned!!

-Sherise

Nurses’ On the Move

Late Monday evening we received a phone call from a hospital employee informing us of a potentially serious mass casualty accident on the main highway. A charter bus full of passengers from Lusaka had dodged something on the road and flipped on its side. We were asked to come and help out with the situation. A vehicle was sent out immediately to pick us up and take us to wherever they needed us (either the scene of the accident or to the hospital). Immediately after the phone call, all of us sprung into action gathering medical supplies and preparing for a potentially tragic scene. Sidenote: of course while all of this was going on, the power was turned off as part of a nightly routine, usually between 1800-2200. Needless to say, we were frantically running about the house yelling out “fill all your pockets with gloves”, “bring your headlamps and goggles”, “where are all the CPR masks?”, “bring the fluorescent pink duct tape for triaging”, “drench yourself with Deet- the Mosquitoes are out!” as well as many others. The bus picked us up quickly which came to us as surprise considering it’s Africa and NOTHING here comes quickly or on time. So there we were on the bus- ready to go - wearing headlamps, goggles, massive amounts of Deet, CPR mask out and ready (with a quick review on how to use it) and adrenalin pumping through our veins. We were prepared for the worst and ready to take action! We were taken to the Lewanika General Hospital where we found what seemed like the entire Lewanika General Hospital staff and nursing students waiting outside for the arrival of the bus casualties. After a short while bus arrived and thankfully the patients coming off the bus were much less critical than anticipated. However, there were a few patients who required immediate attention. We were able to help by performing basic assessments, dressing wounds and assisting the physicians with suturing of major wounds. It was a beneficial learning experience for all of us and we were very thankful that it was not what we were expecting.

We want to thank everyone for joining us on our African adventure. This weekend we will be travelling to Kafue National Park where we will embark on a three-day Safari. So stay tuned, we will have lots to share.

The Crew

Zambian-Canadian Nurses’ Bash

Well, as you might have guessed… we have had the wonderful privilege of attending a Zambian-Canadian Nurses’ Bash put on by some of our dear friends at Lewanika General Hospital. The bash took place at a local safari spot (Kassima Safari) which was complete with sandy beaches, loud music, volleyball nets, refreshments, a braiie (bbq), and of course… dancing!!!! Maybe we are getting a bit carried away in saying it was a sandy beach – as there was a ‘swim at your own risk’ sign next to the swamp-like stream on the edge of the flood plains. Ronald (our host) came prepared with delicious crackling wine, plenty of Mosi (local brew) and a local dj. The day was extremely fun. We spent most of our time on the scorching hot volleyball court with the locals or out on the sand dancing to the Zambian music. Sherise also gave us a private salsa lesson which we failed at miserably but it was fun nonetheless (and entertaining for some- especially Fay!). Elizabeth and Lindsey were our all-star football (soccer) players and even locals commented on their stealthy moves. Mary was our volleyball extraordinaire (surprise, surprise;) and was probably the best player out of everyone on the court, including the men…. much to their dismay. The rest of us lounged in the scorching sun, enjoyed the refreshments, and mingled with the locals. It was a fantastic day and we owe many thanks to our excellent host and wonderful driver (aka – Snoop Doggs Brotha) as well as all the other people who made the day so great! Zambian-Canadian Nurses’ Bash was a HUGE success!

Back in the Saddle Again

It has been some years since I worked on a paediatric ward (I am adopting the African way of vagueness about time and years) and I am delighted to share with you that some things stay with nurses the way bike riding comes back to us all. Sick children have some things in common, no matter where you are. I remember lab values; the feel of dehydration; the look of a very sick child. The wonderful young Dr. Sam Miti on the children’s ward patiently tutors us about tropical illnesses that affect Zambian kids. He enjoys the interchange with me and the students and we love him. The children here are bombarded by many health problems. Their little bodies must fight Maleria,TB, HIV, malnutrition and dehydration due to a plethora of gastric bugs. Many of our kids on the ward are being cared for by a grandmother as their parents have died of HIV. 10 kids, of our thirty patients, are fighting some form of malnutrition. Their solemn eyes peer out of old faces and smiles are a rare gift. Several of our kids have fractures, particularly of arms, falling from Mango tree, from father’s shoulders, roof tops and all manner of high places. Also, several cases of osteomyelitis (bone infections). Sadly we have 8 children who have HIV and are here because they have related (opportunistic) infections/conditions such as TB, pneumonia, malnutrition.

As all kids, for the most part they get better fast. The small crying face sports a smile today and tomorrow screams with laughter at the Makuwa nurse playing peek-a-boo. The tiny fist unfurls, the eyes shine, the rash subsides. We have triplet boys, two chubby faces, bright eyes that follow me, ready to smile upon any eye contact from me. The third brother (last one out), has the baggy pant look of malnourishment, a large head, and a big cough. I fall in love at first sight with his big brown eyes and his reluctantly given smiles. The Doctor agrees that my man’s head is very large and perhaps we need to send him to Lusaka. This would be a huge ordeal and expense for the family and Mom would have to tote brothers with him. They are all treated for pneumonia and my boyfriend also is malnourished so is on special feedings.

One small lovely babe does not make it through a severe malarial crisis. Nothing to do but to weep. It is sudden and harsh, like many things in this land of extremes.
The ward nurse tells me that is it obvious that I have a passion for nursing kids. I am so glad it shows! The kids and the staff welcome our funny ways and concerned attitudes. Their smiles are also sudden and beautiful, like many things in this land of extremes.

Respectfully,
Sister Fay

One week and a light years from home...

Pick up at the airport: Flat deck truck, 22 bags, 22 carry on and 11 tired but hopeful faces. Add a tropical deluge like none other except maybe when Noah built his arc, 30 minutes to the nurse’s hostel. Our driver sweetly said “ they are now baptised by Zambia, so belong to us” and ...you get the picture?

Home in Lusaka: same faces, very wet, same bags, very wet, 7 rooms. Bathroom...not wet!? Spirits high and a dinner out brings smiles...you get the picture?

A quiet space: Shopping with all 13 of us...herding cats? Tried all banks...some money woes, but nothing we can’t solve. Then to a cafe called Zebra Crossing. Looks like a small piece of Africa on safari. Grass thatched shade. Great food and cold beer, served by lovely people in a courtyard filled with African art and a wonderful gift shop. Even had a cat attack... a Tabby attacked a small duckling that was enjoying a walk with Madame Duck... you get the picture?

Bus ride: same baggage, same faces, add what seemed like 200 Zambian men trying to guide, sell and help, tropical deluge interspersed with sun and a mature bus, a rousing sermon to set the stage....you get the picture?
Arriving at first stop on the trip to Mongu....all 13 out in search of bathroom. All 13 suddenly developing well trained bladders after bathroom facilities failed to pass inspection....you get the picture!

Finally, Mongu and one more hassle with 24 bags, 22 carry on, various bags acquired in Lusaka ( think food ) and 13 tired but spirited nurses. Jess womaning the phone and pick up appears along with Sister Stella who was on our bus! Home at last! Showers (not from the sky) are warm, house is great, kitchen well and equipped. Smiles all round...you get the picture?

Our first crisis, one of us must go home to support a sick family member. All of you who have had anything to do with supporting and raising these young women should take a bow. They all used their skills and love to support and organize each other to get our friend home. They are caring, lovely people who continue to send support to their colleague...you know this picture.

13 nurses: Welcomed warmly by Dr. Silumesii, the Executive Director of Lewanika General Hospital. Met the Acting Director of Nursing and were toured around the Lewanika Hospital that will be our practice site for the next five weeks. 10 pairs of big eyes, questioning looks, worried brows. If captions were to appear above heads, some would say “what am I doing here?” ...they have painted this picture.

Mid week: Party at our house to say good bye to some friends. We were elected to host because we are a party on our own and we have a great living room. As our Irish friend said, “looks like an excellent place for a Hooley (sp?)”. So, tired but valiant, we make Chili, and make nice and had a good send off...played Scatagories...you’ve seen this picture.
Wards: We are part of the scenery now, children on the ward greet us with smiles, student nurses look forward to interacting with us, and all watch us with the curiosity and love reserved for an eccentric aunt who brings gifts and exotic behaviours when she visits. We have had our moments, sad things have happened, tears shed, but we kept going back. We leave the children’s ward on Friday and as I look back I see three Canadian students receiving waves, shy smiles and handshakes from a ward full of kids and parents, all of them sporting happy face stickers on their cheeks...you should see this picture!
We have completed our first 10 days in Zambia and have many pictures caught in our minds...each different and each to be visited and reflected upon. Slowly, we are making inroads with our Zambian colleagues...respect is growing on both sides. We are teaching and learning each day.

Jess and I have met with many of our usual support team. Dr. Margaret Maimbolwa greeted us in her usual warm and helpful manner. Dr.Elenor Msidi, with the Zambian Nursing Council, guided me through the registration process and I now proudly can say I am registered in Zambia. We continue to meet with various officials regarding our practicum and OKAZHI initiatives.

From the land of forever skies, big lightening, extreme living...I hope you get our pictures!
Love to all, Fay

Home Again!

I think it is finally time that I introduce myself. My name is Jessica and I have had the pleasure of bringing these ten lovely ladies to a place I hold very close to my heart…Mongu, Zambia. I have been working in Zambia since 2008, and have a passion for nursing in Africa. This passion came to me three years ago, when I took the same path as these students and went to Ghana, West Africa for my 4th year final practicum at UBCO School of Nursing. Since graduating from UBCO in 2007, I have followed that passion and found myself teaching nursing in rural Zambia.

In 2008 myself and another colleague, Lianne Jones (who also just so happens to have that same passion for Africa!) taught at Lewanika School of Nursing for 6 months. The school is located in Mongu, the capital of Zambia’s Western Province. Although we were presented with many challenges, I had the privilege of meeting and working with a number of wonderful Zambians. My nursing students were bright and eager to learn, and my teaching colleagues taught me the principles of what it means to be a great teacher.

I returned back to Zambia in October of 09, with a team of surgeons and nurses from Kelowna. Together we have formed an organization called the Okanagan-Zambia Health Initiative-OkaZHI (http://www.okazhi.org/) Our mandate it to continue working in Western Province, Zambia and we will return twice every year to bring education to local Zambian nurses and doctors. I think of the UBCO nursing students as representatives of OkaZHI, and maybe one day they can return back to Mongu and help us to continue our education!

Every time I come back to Zambia it feels more and more like I am returning home. I think I can now officially call Mongu my second home! I love that I can share my second home with these ten wonderful nursing students. Zambia is also known as ‘The Real Africa’, and after traveling around many African countries…I can honestly say it is the ‘Real’ Africa! So far I think they really are getting a taste of the real Africa. I feel privileged to have the opportunity to guide these students through their own life changing experiences.

Jessica