Status update (Post 5)

Hello all!

The machines that we repaired include microscopes, centrifuges, ultrasound machines, oxygen concentrators, sterilizers, surgery lights, and a physical therapy bike. I worked very closely with two individuals (Alieu and Saikou) who are currently the hospitals electronics specialists (electricians). They are keen to become biomedical engineers or technicians, so this is a great opportunity for them. The next step will be to continue to repair any equipment that the departments may find, and mainly proceed to train and educate these two individuals about what we have done and general biomedical concepts. I have also agreed to run IT workshops with any interested staff member so that they are able to use a computer.

Fixing a faulty autoclave.








Best,
Chirag

Pictures from Week 1 (Post 4)

Front Gate












Fixing oxygen concentrators.


Above are pictures of the hospital's front gate (to the right) and us fixing an oxygen concentrator. This week, we will continue our work, and attempt to fix the equipment at the hospital's lab. There, they have some faulty centrifuges and microscopes.

Work Plan (Post 3)

Hello all!

The administration has paired me up with two gentlemen, Aliou and Saikou, who are currently the electricians at the hospital. Both are very interested in biomedical engineering, the main reason why they will work with me. The work plan is as follows:

1) Assess equipment at each department taking note of location, equipment type, brand name and model number (if applicable), issues, and current status.
2) Group by equipment type and attempt to repair by trouble shooting. If parts are needed, order or make parts.
3) Have staff play an integral role in the entire process.

The WeServe program strives to provide solutions through service in both short term and long term. It is most beneficial to train and teach the staff so that they are able to repair equipment in the absence of WeServe members. Also, this is a learning process for both them and for us. By working together, we can solve the issues quickly and both parties come out with something.

Please let me know of any suggestions that you may have about my work plan.

Today, we were able to fix a couple of sphygmomanometers and 1 oxygen concentrator. I will upload pictures soon! Tomorrow, repairs will continue on the remaining faulty oxygen concentrators.

Best,

Pateh Bah (My Gambian name!)

Sulayman Junkung General Hospital (Post 2)

Hello!

I have arrived at the hospital yesterday evening. Today, I met with the Chief of Nursing Operations, Mr. Bia, who formally welcomed me to the hospital. After the meeting, I was giving a tour by the head of the mechanics team, Famara. The hospital is quite large, and had many patients today. I will begin assessing the equipment tomorrow, so that I can begin to determine what is wrong and try and fix it.