Day 4

After another traditional Guatemalan breakfast, the group set out for the last day at the hospital. Upon arrival, the group divided in to two with Dr. Rust along with Zach and Kayla in one group and the rest of the students with Dr. Northrup. Dr. Rust’s group spent the morning training the hospital technicians on proper care and maintenance of the equipment. The main goal of this training was to educate the technicians on how to prevent future failures of the machines, which will allow the hospital to run more smoothly.

Dr. Northrup’s group spent the morning going around to different wards of the hospital such as post-operation surgery, obstetrics, and neonatal care unit. The purpose of these visits was to speak directly to the medical staff and see what changes would be practical and beneficial to improve the operation of the units. From these suggestions, the group was able to compile a list of needs and special projects that can hopefully be taken over by students back at WNE.

For lunch, both groups went out to Albamar where we had a traditional Guatemalan lunch and were serenaded by a band. While waiting for the bus after lunch, many students used the slide that was part of the expansive jungle-gym outside of the restaurant. 

 

When we all returned to the hospital, Dr. Rust finished his training and Dr. Northrup’s group finished working on the list of needed changes. After the training was complete, there was a small ceremony where the technicians were presented with certificates of completion. 

Later in the afternoon, several students walked around the city and market before we went out to dinner. Although the meal was delayed for a while, the food was still delicious and was thoroughly enjoyed. The group now awaits our cultural day tomorrow, which will be packed with activities ranging from a soccer match to relaxing the natural hot springs.


-Alex and Zach