Goodbye

As we hurdle through the early morning darkness, our Zambian taxi driver expertly maneuvering between potholes and goats I am afforded time to reflect on our visit to Zambia. It has been a wonderful experience for us.

Stats:
Admissions - 35
Deaths - 15
Malaria - over 30 cases
Births - 41

Dan and I are so thankful to the long-term missionaries and Zambian nurses and midwives who have been so patient with us as we adjusted to the Mukinge manner of doing things. A few Mukingeisms that I will remember are:

“The patient has collapsed.” – the patient has died
“The patients condition has changed.” – same as above
“BID” – brought in dead (not twice daily)
“The patient is from far away.” – the patient is going to be admitted, they have traveled too far to go home today.
“Maybe you can do this.” – DO THIS! (usually directed by a nurse)
“Shintai” – push!
“Mwa bu ka vyepi” – hello how are you.
“Twa santa mwane” – thank you.
“Ko sy di queppe” – where is the bathroom?

Anyway we have enjoyed our time here and look forward to some day returning. The Zambian people are gentle people who have not known recent war. They have been very patient and kind with us.

Note from the night charge nurse requesting me to come to evaluate a patient,
I was referred to as "Dr. Ricky"

Post-partum women awaiting discharge.

Post-partum women awaiting discharge.