Final Day for Three of our Instructors

Posted Monday, February 16, 2015

On Friday afternoon we said our goodbyes to Dr.Joe Nawrocki, Dr. Janet Warren and Anita Terry RN, wishing them safe journeys back to North America.  It was a great privilege to work alongside them and glean from their medical expertise. 

 The student’s particularly appreciated the mental health emphasis and teaching by Dr. Warren (see her previous blog).  Dr. Warren effectively communicated the need for counseling in addition to physical care of the patient.
Here is a picture of Anita Terry, Melissa Fonseca, and Dr. Janet Warren.

Taking advantage of Anita Terry’s nursing skills before she left, Friday morning the students reviewed and practiced taking vital signs. Anita also gave a brief discussion on diabetes followed by instruction on their new glucometers.  Each student performed the “almost painless” finger stick and we are happy to report 100% normal glucose tests.

Dr. Nawrocki left the students with much information to ponder on the Urinary System and First Aid.  The input of these health professionals is invaluable to this program.

A short field trip on Saturday was arranged by FLC and the students and teachers made their way up the mountain to Bhubing Palace, the royal winter residence of the King of Thailand.  Interestingly, the trip itself became a health care worker’s lesson in the care of patients who are stricken with motion sickness.L  A stroll through the beautiful rose gardens and water features was good medicine.  And a wonderful picnic prepared by the kitchen staff was enjoyed by (almost) everyone.

Week 5 of the Barefoot Doctor School has officially begun and the morning started with student, Ram Tang, giving a case presentation of one of his patients.  The cameras that the students received last year have given us the opportunity to see firsthand the faces of many of their patients.  The patient is thought to have TB and his case generated much discussion about his diagnosis, care and treatment.  The case presentations allow for input from the current instructors and advise about follow up and continued care.  Dr. Nilson suggested that Ram Tang accompany his patient to the nearest clinic on his return and have him tested, and if positive, treated for TB.  Other diagnoses were considered and treatments discussed. 

 

 Dr. Jim Buie followed with an “eye opening” lecture on the anatomy, physiology and diseases of the human eye.  The students practiced their eye exams on each other and received glasses to help those with myopia (nearsightedness) and sunglasses to help in the prevention of cataract.  It has been emphasized by Dr. Nilson and the other instructors this term that the students must practice good health themselves as they prepare to teach others to follow them in doing so.

Arriving from Canada this weekend, Dr. Susan Parker jumped right in teaching her first session Monday afternoon on “Common Illnesses” and their treatments.  The list, being quite exhaustive, is “to be continued” on Tuesday morning.