The Romanian Relief Effort continued in 2004...

CONTINUING NEED:
In the fall of 2004, a team of Star Valley Rotarians and Humanitarian workers returned for their second annual trip to Dorohoi. 700 lbs of medical supplies were transported to assist in relieving the poverty of the rural hospital. Team members spent time in the hospital assessing the physical needs and appraising the skill levels of the staff in the rural area which services a population of 100,000 people. Their findings established our goals for the year 2005.

In Labor and Delivery they found that fetal heart tones were being assessed with plastic or metal horns held to the woman’s belly(19th century process). Patients were required to bring their own supplies for deliveries. Many of the principals of neonatal resuscitation were unknown and would improve the outcome and survivability of newborn infants. 1200 infants are delivered yearly at Dorohoi Hospital.

In ER, the IV supplies were primitive even when compared to other areas of the country. Bare needle catheters and rubber tubing were the standard when available. Antiseptics were scarce.

Radiology had no film for the new ultrasound machine, so diagnostics were decided while the patient was on the bed and without visual records retained. They had no funds for ultrasound gel and had one week’s supply left. X-rays were developed by hand and dried outside for viewing.

IMPROVEMENTS NOTED THIS YEAR:

Infant deaths at the hospital decreased dramatically.