Thursday, March 5, 2009

Teaching

Just finished 2 days of intensive teaching with the therapists and allied staff. It was at times a bit too much info, I think for the amount of time we had. Most of the evenings we spent editing and cutting things out. I think we all felt a little unsure about the impact that we're having and whether it's effective at all or not. We felt that we weren't sure about the actual mission of the trip, why the hospitals were selected (they are all very well funded and well staffed centres), what the tangible goal is for the entire project.
I expected there to be more need but all I see a need for is mostly community based centres for screening of important rehab issues such as contractures and sores. It's a little disheartening but it's nice to see staff really enjoy the sessions. The nurses had so much fun during the sessions and I think they learned a few skills to help them on the wards.
I'm glad to be on this team where we are so like-minded and similarly goal directed. It's good to be able to vent our frustrations as we all feel the same way at this point about the project. I'm happy to be here but feel that we could have been more use in another way.
Last night we attended the graduation ceremony of the med students and it was really nice to see them all in an informal setting. The only part I felt weird was when they starting singing hymns and then I just felt uncomfortable. My other question re: this trip, why are we only at faith-based hospitals? That unnerves me.

Today we set off for the hills on a community visit and will bring back stories!