SHOALHAVEN District and Milton hospitals have been the beneficiary of ongoing fundraising efforts by local Independent Grocers of Australia (IGA).
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Through the Humpty Dumpty Foundation local IGA stores at Berry, Bomaderry, Milton and Ulladaulla have donated equipment worth more than $13,000 to treat children in both hospitals emergency departments.
Shoalhaven Hospital has received a Connex Vital Signs Monitor (valued at $6200) and an MR850 Humidifier (valued at $4180), while Milton Hospital received an Astodia Diaphanoscope (valued at $2775).
The Connex Vital Signs Monitor allows accurate assessment of vital signs like temperature, blood pressure and oxygen saturation levels in the paediatric setting, enabling improved clinical outcomes.
The reusable finger sensor allows for freedom of movement and provides the ability to care for children in multiple situations.
Humidifiers keep the air babies breathe moist to prevent the drying out of secretions and nasal passages.
Babies suffering from lung infections and chronic bronchitis rely on humidified air and oxygen from the MR850 Humidifier to breathe restfully, and to clear any recurring respiratory problems.
The Astodia Diaphanoscope vein illumination device uses LED lights to illuminate small blood vessels that are not easily seen in pre-term babies, allowing allows medical staff to quickly and accurately administer vital medicines and reduce multiple attempts, which is less stressful for the baby.
It is particularly useful on darker skin colours and when the veins are not visible due to dehydration, etc.
IGA Berry store owner Lee Saunders said the three pieces of equipment were part of 11 donations by IGA retailers across NSW and ACT worth $150,000, providing much-needed equipment.
“IGA retailers and their teams have been involved with many schools, sporting and community organisations in the Shoalhaven for many years and we are proud to make these contributions to both hospitals,” she said.
Humpty Dumpty Foundation Founder Paul Francis OAM said IGA’s support of the foundation and the local community was immeasurable.
“The support to families in the Shoalhaven means children have access to much needed life-saving medical equipment that,” he said.
The Humpty Dumpty Foundation was established 28 years and has raised well over $60 million, making a significant impact on the lives of sick and injured children at children’s hospitals and health service centres in every state of Australia.
To acknowledge the valuable contributions, IGA was presented with Humpty Dumpty Foundation thank you plaques.