What Does it Take to Save Someone’s Life?

What does it take to save someone’s life?

This question came up a lot last week, as our first Medical Capacity Building course in Benin was all about protecting and saving the lives of mothers and babies through safer anesthesia. The course, SAFE Obstetric Anesthesia, focuses on obstetric anesthesia situations ranging from newborn resuscitation all the way to maternal trauma and obstetric emergencies.

Attending the course were 24 doctors and nurse-anesthetists, 6 midwives, and 8 “train the trainer” participants who helped co-teach the course.

Through a combination of lectures, discussions, scenarios and hands-on practice with mannequins, students learned about airway assessment and management, rapid sequence induction, extubation, the WHO Surgical Safety Checklist, general anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, neurological complications, hypotension, the physiology of pregnancy, critical care and resuscitation, sepsis, maternal CPR, neonatal resuscitation, haemorrhage, pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, and estimation of blood loss – just to name a few!

We were thrilled to have 7 outstanding teachers for the course. The teachers were supported by 4 fantastic translators who did a wonderful job translating complicated medical terms into French and matching the enthusiasm and energy of the teachers.

One of the teachers leading the course had this to say:

“Upon returning to the UK after teaching on various SAFE Obstetric Anaesthesia course (I have now done quite a few, 5 courses in 4 different countries). I have to confess that I often question whether it is really worth all the effort. Asking can we really make a lasting positive impact on the professional lives of the course delegates? Conducting these courses in French is especially difficult for those of us who do not speak French. However, this time I have arrived home on a real high. I have put the photo of our course faculty up on my office wall to inspire me and to help me keep believing in the vision behind these courses. I am confident that this course has been a resounding success”.

We hope that this course will have a powerful ripple effect as the students and train the trainers participants return to their different hospitals. Specifically, our hope and prayer is that the skills and knowledge they have learned will result in many saved lives and improved care for many, many moms and babies. The MCB team is thankful for such a successful start to the year, and we are looking forward to many more great courses!

-Abbey Watrous, Medical Capacity Building Project Manager

Other Blog Posts

Diacko: The Courage to Trust

As we approach the close of this year, let us take a moment to reflect on the challenges and trials faced by so many, especially those who have experienced profound loss. This season, while we gather with loved ones to celebrate, let’s also remember those who are still suffering, those who have lost their way, and those who have lost their faith in a better tomorrow.
During this holiday season, we invite you to join us in this mission of compassion, faith, and renewal.
Your generosity can make a real and lasting impact.

Teneng and Ibrahima: Gifts from God

This Christmas season, let’s come together as a community of faith and support to bring restoration to people who have lost so much. Mercy Ships Canada is on a mission to heal and transform the lives of Children and adults in need. Your gift, rooted in faith, can make a significant difference in the lives of countless people. Your support will bring back smiles, health, and faith to children and adults who have suffered for far too long. Donate today and make this Christmas truly meaningful.

Kadidja: A Future as Bright as her Smile

At Mercy Ships Canada, we serve those who have lost hope, bringing healing and transformation. Our volunteers, inspired by their faith, work selflessly to perform surgeries that renew not only bodies but also faith and hope. This Christmas, be a part of the miracle by making a donation to Mercy Ships Canada. Your contribution will help renew faith and offer a second chance at life. Together, we can make a significant impact on those who have suffered for too long.

Aissatou Finds Healing

As we approach the holiday season, we are reminded of the immense power of faith and the importance of giving back to those in need. This Christmas, you have the opportunity to be a beacon of hope, healing and transformation for those who need it most.
Your support this Christmas will not only change lives but also reaffirm the spirit of giving and faith. Join us in spreading love, hope, and healing.
Make a donation today, and together, we can transform the lives of people who have lost so much.

Grateful Hearts-Thank you message from Darryl Anderson

Our journey continues, and we’re excited to have you by our side as we embark on new adventures of compassion and change.

Face-to-Face after Decades: Catherine and Aly Reunite on the Global Mercy

The last time Catherine Conteh saw the deeply familiar smile in front of her in Freetown, it was under dramatically different circumstances. Learn more about Aly’s act of kindness!