Koutiala Hospital for Women and Children

Belated Post! Lori and I visited Koutiala our first 2 weeks in Mali (last half of August). It's hard to take many pictures of/within the hospital in light of respecting patients' privacy and dignity. So, here are the few pictures I took for those interested in the medical side.

Pharmacy

Operating Room --the best in Mali

Ventilator


Childcare services.
This girl nannies for one of the nurses.
(Yes, this baby is wearing a wool hat in 90+ degree weather.)

The rewards of giving blood in Koutiala--you know who gets your blood, and even get to see them receive it (since there is such a need). A 15-year-old girl received my blood.
Even though she died, it still felt like such an honor to give to her, since I saw how she suffered the last days of her life. It really puts getting-stuck-by-a-needle in perspective.

Nursing thoughts (for those interested)...

I was very impressed with Hope Village (we visited several orphanages). It provides not only care for orphans, but also hospice for women, counseling, and assistance for single mothers with special-needs children. The kids and adults who receive from Hope Village also take part in keeping it running. There were several mothers living there (or in the programs provided) with HIV or AIDS who had their kids well adjusted for when these mothers can no longer care for thier children. Hope is always taking on a new project to make the facilities better; however, there is very little money and always need for more help!