We awoke at 0615 to start our day after a relaxing night in kitwe. Our plans for the day were to teach a HBB (helping babies breath) class at Lifesong school to nurses, midwifes and birthing attendants . The purpose of this class was to provide essential training to women who are directly involved in the birthing process and are able to implement during an emergency.
The HBB class was to start at 0800 and slowly women poured into class . The excitement filled the air and you could tell the women were excited to learn and to share. 30 women in total attended and were of all age ranges and backgrounds but came with the same goal of "helping babies breathe". This HBB training is essential to prevent premature and unexpected infant deaths . These skills and knowledge can be used to save infants who would otherwise not survive. Class started at 0900 and continued until 1230. The purpose of class and TPM's mission was explained, educational booklets and pamphlets were reviewed and class began . Contents of the emergency birthing kit were examined by the women and most had seen the equipment but were unsure of how to use . These items included the bulb syringe and ambu bag used for resuscitation . The women were able to practice using the equipment until they were proficient and felt comfortable enough to implement in an emergency scenario . For the duration of the HBB class TPM nurses taught 2 emergent birth scenarios and 1 typical birthing scenario . Women were able to role play as the nurse, mother and helper. Questions were asked and answered, further instruction was given and knowledge was shared among attendants and nurses alike . The women were proficient in emergent birthing scenarios by the time class was through. The women enjoyed learning and continued to express gratitude for being afforded to opportunity to learn and interact with TPM. After hands on training the women were able to take an exam to test their new found knowledge. All 30 women passed and were given a certificate to prove completion of the course!! Pictures were taken and the women couldn't have been more proud!! Following HBB class TPM team members completed eye exams and blood pressure checks for the HBB participants . We were able to provide eye glasses reading and medical advice for blood pressure concerns . The feeling of providing information and interacting with these women was indescribable. TPM made an impromptu visit on the way home from teaching HBB class to visit Chilabula farm. TPM visited last year and wanted to conduct a follow up visit . We were able to visit with the residents of the farm , spend time playing with the children and give donations to the village residents . Lots of love and hugs were given as well !! This was a great day with great new and old friends -Alyssa
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