The Humpty Dumpty Foundation and Independent Grocers of Australia (IGA) made a difference to Kempsey Hospital Maternity Department today with the donation of two Radical-7 Pulse Oximeters.
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The Oximeters are valued at $4,440 each and will be beneficial during delivery for mothers at Kempsey Hospital.
By shining a light through the baby’s finger or toe the Radical-7 Pulse Oximeter measures the amount of oxygen in the baby’s capillaries. This ensures correct and safe oxygen delivery during highly critical times in an effort to prevent damage to organs such as the brain, eyes and lungs.
Clinical Nurse at Kempsey Hospital Patty Neal said the addition of the two machines will ensure deliveries run smoothly.
“There can be overcrowding in the theatre during a C-section and there is a lot of equipment as well. Having the Oximetres will allow us to have more space and we can move it around so it’s more mobile than having to always use a trolley,” she said.
The Radical-7 Pulse Oximeter is mobile, lighter and is able to travel in ambulances if patients are moved to a different hospital.
“It allows constant monitoring of oxygen in the baby and will also cut down on time because it’s efficient and easy to move,” Ms Neal said.
“It also allows for the important skin to skin contact for the baby and mother. It’s less invasive.”
Regional IGA Manager Josh Gilmour said knowing the machines will benefit Kempsey Hospital and it’s patients is very rewarding.
“It’s great having a piece of equipment donated by IGA and the Humpty Dumpty Foundation in our local hospital. It will really help the staff and patients,” he said.
Owner of Central Kempsey IGA, Rohan Simpson said he hopes the addition to Kempsey Hospital will benefit local families.
“We are pleased to be making these donations to Kempsey Hospital. So far this year, IGA retailers have donated 9 machines to hospitals across NSW. IGA retailers and their teams have been involved with many schools, sporting and community organisations in NSW and ACT for many years and we are proud to make this contribution to Kempsey Hospital,” he said.
“It’s great to have access to the two Radical-7 Pulse Oximeters locally and we hope that it can assist many children and their families if, and when they need it.”