Local Trauma Nurse returns from China with enhanced skills

Nov 20, 2024 | Sista i Shine | 0

Vila Central Hospital (VCH) Surgical Registered Nurse Christine Manwo went to Southern China in July for three months to advance her skills in Traumatology. In an interview yesterday (Tuesday) at VCH, the Trauma Nurse says she is a better doctor having returned from China.

Nurse Manwo who was part of the fourth advanced medical professional training programme for the Pacific Island nations in Guangdong, said Chinese medical equipment and techniques are light years ahead of Vanuatu but local nurses and doctors can learn more if they travel to other countries and learn.

“When I was there for three months, I made a report and made recommendations to the hospital (VCH), they can upgrade everyone, spending your time at one place all the time it’s not like oh, you have more experience, it’s good to change the environment and get more skills,” she said.

Aside from the advanced technology that lies within the hospitals outside Vanuatu borders, Nurse Manwo explained that one of the key takeaways from her time in Nanfang Hospital of Southern China was infection control, which prevents or stops the spread of infections in healthcare settings.

Nurse Manwo hopes that all medical professionals have similar opportunities to travel outside of the country and learn medicine in a different environment, as she believes that health exchange programmes like hers would only make local medical practitioners better increase the odds in saving lives – “Everyone needs to upgrade their skills”.

Q and A on with Chinese Medical Team on why Guangdong is interested in Vanuatu

Q. What inspired Guangdong to establish medical collaborations with Vanuatu?

A. Guangdong’s geographical proximity and historical ties with Pacific Island nations inspire us to share our medical expertise. The goal is not only to address immediate healthcare needs but also to build long-term capacities through training and education.

Q. What challenges does the team face in providing medical assistance in Vanuatu?

A. Challenges include limited local medical infrastructure, transportation of medical equipment, and differences in healthcare practices. However, these obstacles also motivate us to develop innovative solutions, such as telemedicine and tailored training programs.

Q. Can you share a success story from the 2019 mission?

A. In 2019, our team performed life-changing surgeries for patients suffering from prostate conditions. One memorable case involved a patient who had been using a catheter for years. Post-surgery, he was able to regain normal urinary function, which transformed his quality of life and his family’s well-being.

Q. How does this collaboration impact the local healthcare system?

A. Our efforts focus on a sustainable impact. By training local doctors and nurses, introducing advanced surgical techniques, and providing modern equipment, we enable the local healthcare system to independently address medical challenges over time.

Q. What is your vision for the future of China-Vanuatu medical collaboration?

A. Our vision is to continue building a “community of shared health.” By combining hands-on medical services, education, and remote collaboration, we aim to enhance Vanuatu’s healthcare system while fostering lasting friendships between our nations.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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