Donations Support Obstetrical Care in South Muskoka

A new infant warmer for obstetrical care will support the best start for babies born at the South Muskoka Memorial Hospital (SMMH) Site, keeping newborns healthy after delivery.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation has purchased a new Panda™ infant warmer as part of this year’s $1.5 million capital equipment fundraising commitment.

“Best practice of initial newborn care is for the baby to remain skin-to-skin with mom, but when a baby requires extra help and even resuscitation after delivery, the new Panda™ is the place for baby to be,” says Carol Anderson, Chief Nursing Executive & Clinical Services. “The Panda™ combines advanced technologies with innovative features to deliver state-of-the-art thermoregulation while promoting family-centred care. With this new addition of equipment, both MAHC sites are equipped with infant warmer, ensuring a higher standard level of care for newborns.”

Valued at $45,000, this portable equipment has the ability to monitor newborn temperature and oxygen saturation. With built-in suction and resuscitator within immediate reach, our care team members will be able to quickly initiate any extra care for resuscitation that babies require. The warmer is equipped with a built-in weight scale and x-ray table allowing hands-on monitoring without having to move the baby from the warmer.

“New equipment at the hospital is only possible because of donations,” says Colin Miller, Executive Director of the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation. “We’ve been so fortunate to have strong donor support, including a local 12-year-old named Cailan Punnewaert who spearheaded a ‘Kids Who Care’ charity car wash in September with all proceeds designated toward the warmer. It’s a great example of how community spirit and dedicated supporters can make a difference for an entire community.”

The generosity of a local business has also outfitted the waiting area adjacent to the labour and delivery rooms with new furniture for a better experience. Leons of Muskoka has graciously donated a new reclining loveseat, two chairs and complementing tables, and cabinets so families are more comfortable as they wait for baby to arrive.

Donations in support of capital equipment and technology needs can be made by contacting the South Muskoka Hospital Foundation at 705-645-4404 ext. 3193 or online anytime at www.healthmuskoka.ca.