The Kitimat General Hospital Foundation has announced both the arrival and implementation of a Wireless TOCO Transducer in the Maternity Department, as well as that there will be more nurses available to administer them.
The foundation says that two new Registered Nurses recently completed their training in maternity care, which they say means more babies will be able to be delivered safely and comfortably in Kitimat, keeping essential healthcare services closer to home.
Amid frequent emergency room closures, in 2023, Kitimat City Council endorsed a resolution to work with the Haisla Nation, the Kitimat Health Advocacy Group, and Northern Health Authority and local industry and agencies to develop options and a budget for attraction and retention of new healthcare professionals.
In terms of the new machine, the TOCO Transducer, they say it is a state-of-the art piece of equipment that enhances patient care by allowing for continuous, non-invasive monitoring of uterine contractions, with increased comfort and mobility for expectant mothers. The wireless technology reduces clutter and enhances safety during labour, enabling more efficient and effective monitoring by medical staff.
Money for the machine was raised through the Smile Cookie Campaign with the local Tim Hortons and LNG Canada, as well as a gala donation from Rio Tinto.