¡Hola de Trujillo! There's so much to say about our trip so far, but I'm going to stick to all of the medical opportunities that have been available to us! The doctors and nurses are so glad to have us and are extremely helpful. In the past two weeks, I've seen 4 different surgeries, performed check-ups on and listened as doctors diagnosed patients, given shots, and seen all kinds of amazing things.
The first day working in the clinic I was completely taken by surprise when the doctor, after examinating the patient, looked at me and asked me why I wasn't doing the same thing. I immediately grabbed a stethescope and rather nervously started to check the patient's heart and lungs. I had no idea what I was doing though and after the patient left, I asked the doctor what I was supposed to have heard because to me, everything sounded normal. He smiled at me and said that I was exactly correct. Later, while we were meeting with other patients, he showed me different sounds that different ailments can cause in a patient's breathing and heart sounds.
My first surgery experience was really cool! I got to dress in scrubs and everything! One of the surgeon's spoke english and explained exactly what was happening as he did it. They encouraged us to take pictures so that we could remember what was happening later.
Going out into the Peruvian country side was a great experience because I got to see inside the lives of those less fortunate than I am. I helped vaccinate a few families against Hepatitis, swine flue, and tetanus. Later in the week, I walked to homes and helped examine water for signs of mosquitos and/or dengue. It's interesting to think that countries need to do that and it reminds me of how fortunate I am to be living in the United States.
I'm so excited for the weeks to come!
Jacqueline Fitton
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