Here is an acrostic
that will hopefully give you a little insight into what the nursing students
experienced in Sedai.
Not having enough access to clean water
causes many health issues within the
community; trachoma, diarrheal diseases, and skin infections to name a few
Under tree clinic
We held a mobile health clinic under a tree
in the community. This tree was
multi-purposeful during our stay.
It served as our church, shade for our tents, and a place to congregate
for group meetings and meals.
Recognizing differences between United States and Samburu
health care
Screening men, women, and children for Trachoma
Trachoma is a disease of the eyes caused
by lack of facial hygiene. We rolled back the villager’s eyelids, looking for
signs and symptoms of the disease. If we found Trachoma, the clinic provided
medication free of cost. We found Trachoma in 48% of the children and 13% of
the adults.
Immunizations
We watched the clinical officer give
immunizations at the mobile clinic to the children of Sedai, however many mothers
did not capitalize on this opportunity even though their children desperately
need this protection from disease.
No money for care at Arsim clinic
We witnessed a number of patients
receive care at the clinic who were unable to pay for the services.
God’s faithfulness
This was evident in the work of their
new clinical officer, the ability to bring healthcare to different villages in
Samburu, and the newly functioning water source.
Interruption of outdoor breastfeeding clinic by goats and
camels (haha J)
No electricity at the Arsim clinic
The clinic has a number of resources
that are unable to be used be because of the lack of electricity e.g. ear
light, printer, baby incubator.
Sanitation problems
i.e. goat dung everywhere, lack of
clean water, constant contact with animals, and health education needs
Education needs
The community was lacking in basic
health education. They need much repetition and reinforcement in order to take
care of themselves and their families.
Defining symptoms
We, as nursing students, often hear
clear lung sounds in clinical settings. At Arsim, we were able to hear what
actual complications sound like.
Always depending on God
Infectious smiles
The people of Sedai and Arsim brought
joy to us through their ever-present smiles in the midst of many healthcare
trials.
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