UNTH AND PICU PROJECT TEAM USA ORGANISE A LIFE-CHANGING MEDICAL MISSION
By: Dim Chinwendu & Egbunine Chika
UNTHNEWS ONLINE
The University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku/Ozalla, Enugu, was honored to host a team of foreign healthcare specialists under Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Project PICU, USA, who embarked on a remarkable medical mission in association with the UNTH. Led by their team lead, Dr. Odera Nwankwo, the dedicated professionals brought their expertise and compassion to our Institution, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless children and families.
The Chief Medical Director, Prof. Obinna Onodugo, received donations of medical items from the PICU Team, USA, to support the PICU Project in UNTH.
During their week-long visit, the team conducted complex surgeries, providing critical care to young patients who desperately needed their expertise. According to Dr. Akpeh James, Head, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, UNTH, who spoke to UNTHNEWSONLINE, the surgeries included pediatric tonsillectomy, tracheostomy, and pediatric tongue tumor. Their skilled hands and precise techniques gave these children a second chance at life and their families a renewed sense of hope.
In addition to providing medical care, the team also conducted comprehensive training sessions for our local healthcare professionals. These sessions equipped our staff with valuable knowledge and skills, enabling them to better care for their patients and improve healthcare outcomes in our community.
L-R: Dr. Chime Ethel, Prof. Ezeanule Basil, Dr. Ogelue Ezeofe-Ugorji, DDN. Mbah Ngozi, Dr. Nze Uchechukwu, Dr. Manish Purohit, Nr. Valeria Coll, Dr. Akpeh James, Dr. Donald Solomon, Dr. Nwosa Chukwuma and Nr. Ediomo Ekenem.
The team’s generosity extended beyond their medical expertise, as they donated state-of-the-art equipment to our institution. This donation will undoubtedly enhance capacity to provide quality healthcare services to the patients, long after the team has departed.
The leader of the team, Dr Odera Nwankwo, extended his heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Medical Director, Prof. Obinna Onodugo, for arranging the life-changing medical mission. In his word, “Your tireless efforts to foster partnerships and collaborations have brought immense benefits to UNTH community, and we are forever grateful.
Dr. Odera Nwankwor, the PICU Team leader, USA, speaks with UNTHNEWSONLINE Reporter on their mission and solicit for support to ensure the success of the Project and siting of PICU in all the six geo-political zones in Nigeria.
Dr. Ogelue Ezeife-Ugorji, a member of the PICU Team and also the President of the Nigerian-American Nurse Anaesthetic Association.
Earlier in a welcome party organised in honour of the guests, the CMD thanked the foreign healthcare specialists, he said “we express our deepest appreciation for your kindness, expertise, and selflessness. Your visit has left an enduring impact on our institution and the lives of our patients. We hope that your efforts will inspire others to follow in your footsteps, and that we can continue to build on the momentum you’ve created.
Thank you for giving hope, healing, and a brighter future to our children. Your legacy will live on in our hearts and our institution”.
The PICU Team Project USA include Dr. Odera Nwankwo, Paediatric ICU Nurse and the team lead; Dr. Donald Solomon, ENT Surgeon; Dr. Manish Purohit, Paediatric Anaesthetist; Dr. Ogelue Ezeife-Ugorji, Certified Registered Nurse Anaesthetist; Dr. Adeolu Aromolan, Paediatric Intensivist; Jyai Morris-Bell, RN. Paediatric ICU Nurse; Valeria Coll, RN, Paediatric ICU Nurse; and Brent Chamblee, RT, Paediatric Respiratory Therapist
Skills transfer sessions by the PICU Team, USA
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