Just so you know...

The out patient clinic opened on Tuesday, May 10th. On the first day I saw 3 patients- a slow start I know, but at least it gave us the chance to make sure that the clinic, lab, pharmacy etc. were functioning as they should. On Thursday the numbers increased, and I saw 16 children and 2 of our employees. Today, I saw 27 patients- actually it was a bit too busy. But at least we know there is a need for the clinic! The clinic days right now are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. Once we start our immunization program we hope to have an immunization afternoon (Wednesdays) as well. And hopefully we will be able to do health teaching etc. in the community on Fridays. And who knows, maybe we’ll have more clinic days in the future.

It’s good to have started the clinic. However, I realize even more how challenging it is. And at times I feel very inadequate for the job. Especially being the only one to see the children and make the diagnosis etc makes it difficult. It would be a lot easier if there was someone else to bounce ideas off of! Most children come with complaints of fever and cough. And then half also have complaints like vomiting, diarrhea, or skin conditions. So as you can imagine, at times it is hard to figure out what is really going on. I at least try to discern which children are very sick and which are just feeling unwell. And I try to diagnose what I can, and treat with what I have! I guess I have to get used to things here too; used to working on my own, with limited medication, limited (and right now part time) lab etc. And it’s hard when a really sick child comes in and you know that you can’t really do a whole lot except refer the child to a center 20 minutes away- at times like that you really hope and pray that time is on your side! There will always be challenges here I know, but hopefully with time, things will get better and run smoothly.

Till next time.