Last autumn, the Salavan Health Education Project team welcomed Dr Chi, a medical expert from the Perth Childrens Hospital in Australia for several training courses.

Dr Chi’s experience was invaluable, and she was warmly welcomed by the staff at the Salavan Provincial Hospital (SPH), Lao Ngam District Hospital, and the health centres in our project.

During her three-month stay, Dr Chi conducted two new training on neonatal resuscitation, and basic adult life support with an emphasis on pregnant women.

Adult Basic resuscitation is now being rolled-out to every member of staff in all departments of SPH month by month. By the end of the 2022, with Dr Chi’s help, we had trained three trainers in adult resuscitation and 36 staff. In December, the Neonatal resuscitation refresher courses went very well, and 27 staff from the departments caring for newborns have been trained so far.

The feedback was positive. The use of roleplay, and plenty of hands-on practice, was enjoyed by everyone. There was a practical test at the end, and a certificate presented.

Dr Chi also worked with the paediatric team, training and supporting on topics including child diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.

This kind of opportunity helps developping the skills of health personnel in Salavan and the surrounding area. Gradually, the medical teams increase their knowledge, improve their skills, and gain autonomy.