Fighting Ebola in Sierra Leone: the experience of frontline NHS workers

Jo Padickakudi,R Brock,Ec Baker,A Patel

doi:10.1308/147363515x14134529301507

Abstract

A group of UK trainees find themselves face-to-face with one of the most catastrophic health crises in recent times.

Highlights

Once in the country, the Royal Engineers handed over the newly completed, empty 100-bed facility, fit with generators, double-insulated tents, functional plumbing, drainage and incinerators
Six million inhabitants are currently served by eight surgeons, with two of their best losing their lives in the current outbreak family
As the Ebola outbreak leaves the attention of the public eye, people seem far less interested in the plight of West Africa than we had anticipated – a shock to those of us who have thought of little else for months

Summary

Introduction

The Royal Engineers handed over the newly completed, empty 100-bed facility, fit with generators, double-insulated tents, functional plumbing, drainage and incinerators. THE TRUE HEROES Working with Sierra Leonean staff proved to be one of the highlights of the mission. We knew that we would be unable to make dramatic differences to clinical outcome of patients, but working with the national staff provided a great motivation.

Results

Conclusion