As the nurses’ strike continues, the Walewale Municipal Hospital, currently serving as the North East Regional Hospital is navigating the complexities of the nurses’ strike.
Reports indicate that some patients are not aware of the ongoing strike, expressing their urgent need for medical attention, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.
An elderly woman in her mid-70s, who traveled from Kpasenkpe, a distant community from Walewale, expressed her concerns during an interview with 3news.
“I am not aware that the nurses are on strike,” she said. “Traveling all this way and going back without proper care is unfair. Should we, the elderly, suffer because of the actions of our own sons and daughters? It’s not right. We deserve care just like anyone else.” she lamented.
Typically, the hospital serves more than 200 patients daily, with numbers surging to about 400 on market days. However, recent observations reveal a significant drop in patient attendance, with less than 30 individuals seeking care as of Saturday. The hospital’s corridors, usually bustling with activity, appear eerily empty, with no nurses present to attend to the needs of those who do arrive.
Another elderly patient shared her distress, stating that she was unaware of any strike and insisted on receiving care. “I’m sick! I’m very sick! I’m very, very sick!” she exclaimed.
“They have to attend to me because I can’t go back without being treated. Look at my eyes, my waist, my head, my neck, even my chest all in pain. I’m not going back until someone helps me!,” she complained.
Despite the strike’s impact on general services, the labor wards remain active. During a recent visit, it was noted that approximately ten women were in labor, with national service personnel nurses actively engaged in providing care. Four women have successfully delivered their babies despite the strike.
A nurse who visited the hospital to pick up some of her items from the labor ward observed National Service personnel struggling with the women in labor.
She felt compelled to help, stating, “Seeing what those women in labor are going through, I just couldn’t stand by and do nothing. The National Service personnel have little experience in some of these cases. In one hour, I was able to deliver four babies, but there are still six more waiting. I don’t know what to do. Some of these women and their babies need extra attention, but I’m afraid they may sanction me if they find out I’m doing this.”
The situation at the Walewale Municipal Hospital highlights the urgent need for care among patients and the dedication of those willing to assist during this challenging time.
