With the aim to increase the capabilities of the paediatric ward at Mankweng Hospital, Anglo American Platinum Polokwane Smelter donated an Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) analysis machine to the hospital recently.
It was reported that the donation of the machine will allow the hospital to easily diagnose patients suffering from shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, confusion, and nausea by measuring the amount of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
According to the statement released by Anglo American Platinum, the company has a long history of contributing to, and partnering with Mankweng Hospital.
This most recent donation is another example of how the company, as part of the broader Anglo American group is focusing their FutureSmart Mining strategy by applying cutting-edge technological advances and broad innovative thinking to address mining’s major challenges, including education and healthcare, the statement read.
Polokwane Smelter Manager, Phillimon Mukumbe reportedly said “It gives us a great sense of joy to know that this machine will change the lives of many people in Limpopo. The development and health of the community in which we operate are a priority for us and the donation of this machine to a learning hospital such as Mankweng will help with achieving both objectives. We look forward to continuing to support this vital resource where possible.”
He further said over the last four years Polokwane Smelter has supported the hospital with donations of soft toys, story books, bicycles, four television sets and digital video disc (DVD) players and painting of all the paediatric units’ wards.
Information from the hospital highlighted that the machine is placed at the High Care Unit of the Paediatric ward to assist medical officers with gas blood results immediately. The acting Clinical Manager Thabo Pinkoane appreciated the donation and indicated that it will assist the hospital in improving and accelerating quality service delivery. He said the equipment is very important and it will decrease the morbidity and mortality rate but also improve the morale of the nurses and the medical officers in the ward.
Malebo Mabusela, the Paediatrician who works in the paediatric ward, indicated that the machine will bring a sigh of relief and reduce the turnaround time of issuing treatment to patients by half. The machine consumables are cheap as compared to the other machines in the hospital and this makes it user-friendly for the medical technicians to maintain, she stated, adding that the machine also keeps patient history which is an added advantage to the medical officers.
Story: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
