In praise of Links…….
Quotes from Nottingham & Jimma Staff (and others)
From Nottingham staff
Claire Hepworth, AICU Senior Staff Nurse:
One of the benefits from visiting Jimma, that might not be obvious, is how it improves our ability to support staff within our own organisation. We are employing increasing numbers of overseas nurses who find the transition quite difficult. Seeing the situation in Jimma helps us appreciate the cultural differences and enables us to appreciate the different expectations of both doctors and nurses. I have been able to better support my overseas colleagues because of my experiences there”.
Mary Kennedy, Senior Sister, Burns Unit:
“It was great to take our knowledge and expertise out to Jimma, but what I learned most of all was how important the basics are – it’s not the machinery we are lucky enough to have, it’s actually getting to touch the patients and do proper assessments and observations – I have never forgotten that.”
Rachel Finn, Clinical Nurse Manager:
“The trip to Jimma was an experience never to be missed. Our lives are enriched by such experiences – we are unique in that our link is the longest running and the commitment shown by our staff is commendable”.
Dr. Andy Simm, Obstetrician:
“It is gratifying to see how eager our Jimma colleagues are to learn and how they undertake care with the minimum of resources.”
Susan Taylor, Clinical Chemistry Manager:
“It was a humbling experience for all of us working with Estifanos. He was so enthusiastic about everything he saw and how he planned to set things up when he returned.”
Prof. John Britton, Respiratory Physician:
“…….professionally, the link with Jimma is the best thing that has happened to me.”
Dr. Elizabeth Carling, G.U. Consultant:
“I was able to work with both Muslim and Christian leaders on HIV/AIDS and I can use this to help our patients in Nottingham.”
Chris Girolomini, Infection Control Nurse/Jimma Link Co-ordinator:-
“In these days of uncertainty with what appears to be plenty to be unhappy about, it is possible to return from Jimma with a fresh and positive perspective – we see how fortunate we are to work in a safe and clean environment, with everything we need to care for our patients readily available. Without policies, procedures and regulations to guide you, it is necessary to think on your feet and be flexible and adaptable – all these skills stand you in good stead here at home.”
From Jimma Staff
Dr. Samson Ashine, Radiologist:
“The visit has helped me to see the standard radiological practice in a well- established setting. This is helpful to make improvements and plan upgrading. A lot of experience can be gained by such visits. Teaching of medicine in our country was started and developed by Ethiopians trained abroad and to keep progress, we have to continuously introduce expertise from abroad.”
Ato Estifanos, Head of Labs:
“I was given documents, manuals and SOP’s, along with teaching materials.
I am able to establish processes in my labs with this help. I had a lot of experience and everyone I met was willing to share their knowledge with me.”
Dr. Tsinuel Girma, Paediatrician/Medical Director:
“I was able to achieve all my objectives, both clinical and managerial as the timetable arranged for me gave me maximum exposure. I observed many procedures which, with adaption, can be utilised in our set up”.
Sister Ayelech Kebede, Paediatric Ward Sister:
“I have seen very good attitude to parents in Nottingham and will try to improve our staff attitude. Also to take Nottingham method of record keeping to implement in Jimma.”
Ato Kidane W/Mariane, Surgical Ward Head Nurse:
“I saw everything I wanted to see, so that I could benefit my hospital in the future.”
Ato Waju Beyene, Director of Nursing:
“I have learned wise management of available resources and also methods for determining and designed nursing care standards for JimmaHospital”.
Ato Berhanu Yohanis, Head of ICU:-
“I saw the excellent design of xray trolleys in Nottingham and designed one to be made in our workshops. They are very comfortable for our patients.”
And finally……………………..
Sir Nigel Crisp, Chief Executive of the Department of Health & NHS:-
“Links allow NHS staff to contribute to the improvement of healthcare worldwide, whilst continuing to serve their own communities. Links motivate staff, enlarge their experience, sharpen their skills and thus help to retain them within each country’s National Health Service; the benefits are clearly felt by both English and overseas partners.”
cmg/feb2006