The InterView - JANUARY - APRIL 2023

STORY

(L-R): Hon Josephine Connolly (MoT), Hon. Shaun Malcolm (MoH) Ms. Ivis Taylor (Winner of CEO Award ), Hon Royal Robinson (Former MoH) and Dr. Dawn Perry- Ewing, Dr Denise Braithwaite-Tennant (CEO TCI Hospital)

(L-R):

TURKSANDCAICOSISLANDSHOSPITALSUCCESSFULLYHOSTSANNUALMEDICAL CONFERENCEONTHEBURDENOFCHRONICNCDSINTHETURKSANDCAICOSISLANDS

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital is proud to announce the successful completion of its annual Medical Conference, focusing on the Burden of Chronic NCDs in the Turks and Caicos Islands. For two enlightening days, esteemed medical professionals gathered at the Beaches Turks and Caicos Resort to address the pressing issue of chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) plaguing the country.

The conference's first day began with two esteemed keynote speakers, Dr Shandey Malcolm and Dr Samantha Avery. Their presentations shed light on the challenges the Turks and Caicos Islands face in combating these prevalent health conditions and ways to improve patient outcomes and access and enhance self-care and health literacy through digital health

Following the enlightening keynote addresses, a lively panel discussion and open forum encouraged participants to engage in thought-provoking conversations. Experts from various fields, including the keynote speakers and Hon Dr Rufush Ewing, Dr Vancelee Forbes, and Dr Jeremy Myers, collectively brainstormed innovative strategies to effectively

counter the burden of chronic NCDs within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Day two of the conference was dedicated to clinical sessions, featuring distinguished speakers who delivered informative presentations on specific aspects related to chronic NCDs. These sessions comprehensively covered topics of utmost importance, including childhood obesity by Pediatric Endocrinologist Dr Janice Sanchez of The University of Miami and type two diabetes by Internist and Endoscopist Dr Sandro Dissels (HOD) Internal Medicine at the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital.

Dr. Gregory Lewis, Dr Sani Amati, Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, Dr. Dawn Perry-Ewing, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, Dr Vancelee Forbes, Dr Sandro Dissels and , Dr Jeremy Myers

DrPharezGeorge-MedicalDirector-NHIB

MEDICAL CONFERENCE CONT.

The speakers at the conference brought forth valuable insights, advanced research findings, and practical recommendations that will significantly contribute to the fight against chronic NCDs within their respective fields.

"We are truly thrilled with the outcomes of this annual medical conference, which brought together a wealth of knowledge and expertise in addressing the burden of chronic NCDs in our community. The engaging discussions and thought-provoking sessions have undoubtedly paved the way for us to implement effective strategies and drive positive change", said Dr Dawn Perry-Ewing, Chair of the Academic Committee and Chief of Medical Services - Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital.

CEO of the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant said, "The knowledge shared at this event will undoubtedly help healthcare professionals in their pursuit of mitigating the impact of chronic NCDs on individuals and society. At the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, we are dedicated to this journey to foster collaboration, enhance medical knowledge, and promote dialogue on combating chronic NCDs in the Turks and Caicos Islands."

Also in attendance was the newly appointment Minister of Health Hon. Shaun D Malcolm who gave welcoming remarks.

Dr DawnPerry-Ewing-ChiefofMedicalServices

Dr DeniseBraithwaite-Tennant-ChiefExecutiveOfficer

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital was proud to participate in Enid Capron Primary School's Career Day. This event aimed to inspire students and introduce them to various career opportunities, with representatives from the hospital's clinical teams and facilities management attending on behalf of the institution

Representatives from the hospital's clinical teams, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, were present to interact with students and share their experiences They engaged in meaningful and interactive discussions, offering valuable advice and guidance to those interested in pursuing healthcare careers.

Moreover, representatives from the hospital's facilities management team showcased the importance of non-clinical roles within a healthcare setting. They highlighted the variety of careers in administration, facility maintenance, housekeeping, and other support services This provided students with a comprehensive view of the healthcare industry, emphasizing the critical role played by professionals behind the scenes.

TCI Hospital

Supports Enid Capron Primary School Career Day Event

"We were thrilled to participate in Enid Capron Primary School's Career Day event and engage with the students," said Training Manager at the TCI Hospital Vernessa Forbes "By showcasing the diverse range of careers within the healthcare sector, we hope to inspire and motivate the students to consider pursuing a rewarding career in healthcare. We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the educational development of our community's future generations."

Infection Prevention Control UKOT Specialist Visits TCI Hospital to Strengthen Collaboration

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital was honoured to host a visit from Ms Janice Toplass, IPC UKOT Specialist, as part of a collaborative effort to enhance quality control measures and strengthen relationships with the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital. During her visit, Ms Toplass met with senior managers, the Quality Risk and Patient Safety Manager Isha Honoree and Infection Control lead Surbrena Pedican and conducted a brief tour of the hospital.

Accompanied by Mrs Jackurlyn Sutton of the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Ms Toplass is a specialist in Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) and is highly regarded for her expertise in healthcare-associated infections and surveillance systems As an IPC UKOT Specialist, she possesses extensive knowledge and insights into best practices and strategies for preventing and controlling infections in healthcare settings. During her visit to the TCI Hospital, Ms Toplass engaged in fruitful discussions with senior managers, sharing her expertise and valuable recommendations for further improving the hospital's quality control processes

Her insights were parallel to the TCI Hospital's already established highest infection prevention and control practices standards. Ms Toplass undertook a brief tour of the facility to gain first-hand knowledge of the hospital's operations

This tour allowed her to observe the hospital's infrastructure, infection prevention protocols, and other key aspects pertaining to patient care and safety

"We were privileged to have Ms Janice Toplass, IPC UKOT Specialist, visit our hospital and share her expertise with our team," expressed the Quality Risk and Patient Safety Manager Isha Honoree "Her visit has strengthened our commitment to ensuring the highest standards of infection prevention and control". The visit from Ms Toplass marks an important milestone in the ongoing collaboration between the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital and IPC specialists through the Turks and Caicos Islands Government

By fostering such relationships, the TCI Hospital aims to continually improve its infection prevention and control measures, maintaining the highest standards of patient safety and satisfaction

Highlights on pg. 14

TCI Hospital Prioritizes Patient Safety Month through Innovative "Shark Tank" Exercise

TCI Hospital recently organized an exciting internal "Shark Tank" exercise as part of Patient Safety Month under the theme Mobility Matters, promoting a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in healthcare This engaging event featured five enthusiastic participants and a panel of esteemed judges who evaluated innovative ideas to enhance patient safety within the hospital.

Patient Safety Week is an annual campaign that focuses on highlighting the importance of patient safety and encouraging healthcare organizations to adopt best practices that minimize risks and improve outcomes. TCI Hospital recognized the significance of this initiative and sought to foster a proactive environment in which staff members could contribute their innovative ideas for enhancing patient safety.

The "Shark Tank" exercise emulated the popular television show, in which entrepreneurs present their ideas to a panel of potential investors. Similarly, TCI Hospital's event provided a platform for participants to pitch their patient safety initiatives to a panel of distinguished judges, comprising influential figures from the healthcare industry

The five participants showcased their creativity and passion by presenting unique ideas aimed at optimizing patient safety within the hospital.

These innovative concepts ranged from technology-driven solutions to process improvements. Each participant demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of patient safety and a commitment to making a positive impact on the healthcare system

The esteemed panel of judges in the persons of CEO Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, Deputy Finance Manager Romard Palmer, Human Resource Manager Lorenzo Seymour and Acting General Manager for the Facilities Management Company Karen Bartholomew evaluated the ideas based on their feasibility, potential impact, and alignment with the hospital's mission and values. The judges, recognized experts in patient safety and healthcare administration, provided valuable feedback and offered recommendations to further enhance the proposals.

"Patient safety is at the forefront of our priorities at TCI Hospital, and this 'Shark Tank' exercise was an incredible opportunity to harness the innovative thinking of our staff," said Isha Honoree Quality Risk and Patient Safety Manager at TCI Hospital. "We were thrilled by the enthusiasm and creativity displayed by the participants This exercise demonstrated our commitment to creating a culture of continuous improvement and ensuring that patient safety is embedded in every aspect of our healthcare services."

Congratulations to Jamal Warwick on winning the Shark Tank for his seizure bed pad idea

TCI Hospital Participates in Career

Day at Richmond Hill Prep, Inspiring Young Minds

The students found Denise's presentation easy to understand and engaging, providing them with valuable insights into the medical field.

"We are grateful to Richmond Hill Preparatory for inviting TCI Hospital to be a part of their Career Day event," said Oncology Specialist Nurse, Denise White "Having real professionals provide hands-on experiences to students is a wonderful way to spark their interest and inspire them to explore future career paths. We are honored to have been a part of this important event"

TCI Hospital recently had the privilege of participating in the Career Day event hosted by Richmond Hill Preparatory. The event, held under the themes of ‘Dress for Success’ and ‘Community Helpers,’ aimed to inspire the curiosity and ambitions of the school's upper and lower grade students by providing them with a firsthand experience of various professions.

Children possess an innate curiosity about the world around them, and Richmond Hill Preparatory recognizes the importance of nurturing this curiosity The Career Day at the school succeeded in creating an exciting and interactive atmosphere, allowing the students to explore a wide variety of careers that they could relate to.

Amongst the highlights of the event was the presence of TCI Hospital, which offered students the opportunity to learn about the healthcare profession. Our talented Oncology Specialist Nurse, Denise White, delivered an interactive and exciting presentation on topics such as healthy eating habits and the importance of hospital visits.

The presence of TCI Hospital at Career Day emphasized the significance of dressing for success and encouraged the students to consider careers in the medical field. The event aimed to motivate the students to dream big and realize that with dedication and hard work, they can achieve their goals, including making a difference in people's lives through careers in healthcare.

OncologySpecialistNurse,DeniseWhiteengagesstudents

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HEART OF A CHAMPION AWARDS

Turks and Caicos Island Hospital held its annual Heart of a Champion award ceremonies to commemorateits13yearsofdedicatedserviceto the Turks and Caicos Islands community The ceremony recognized and honoured 42 exceptional staff members from Cheshire Hall Medical Centre and the Cockburn Town Medical Centre The prestigious event was attended by staff members, Government dignitaries and the hospital's senior management team members, who presented awards to deserving clinical and non-clinicalstaffmembers.

The Heart of a Champion award ceremony is TCI Hospital's way of acknowledging its staff's outstanding contributions and commitment These individuals go above and beyond their regular duties, showcasing exceptional skills, dedication, and compassion in providing healthcareservicestothecommunity

"The Heart of a Champion award ceremony is a testament to our deep admiration and appreciation for the remarkable staff members who make TCI Hospital what it is today," said Denise Braithwaite-Tennant, CEO at TCI Hospital "Their unwavering dedication, compassion, and commitment to serving our community deserve special recognition. We are proud to honour their exceptional achievements and extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every awardee"

Dr DeniseBraithwaite-Tennant-ChiefExecutiveOfficer

Mr MichaelWilliams-Moderator-CTMC

The Heart of a Champion award cerem showcased the diverse talents and contributi of the honoured staff members, including b clinical and non-clinical roles. Each awardee recognized for their individual achievements presented with a prestigious award in front their colleagues and esteemed guests.

We take great pride in honouring our dedica staff members in the facilities managem department. This event is an opportunity acknowledge their outstanding contributions ensuring a safe and efficient environment for our patients, visitors, and colleagues This is a small token of our appreciation for their remarka efforts and an opportunity to celebrate t exceptional achievements", General Manag Facilities Management - Martin Dawtry.

Special awards were given to Ivis Taylor, Surbrena Pedican

HEARTOFACHAMPION AWARDSCEREMONY

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Invited dignitaries included the Minister Health and Human Services, Hon. Shaun Malcolm, Permanent Secretary for the Mini of Health and Human Services Mrs Des Lewis, former Minister of Health Hon. Ro Robinson, and Minister of Tourism, H Josephine Connolly.

MartinDawtry-GMFacilitiesManagement

In a show of support and commitment to the healthcare sector, the newly appointed Minister of Health visited Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital. During the visit, the minister had productive meetings with hospital senior managers and took a comprehensive tour of the facility, interacting with both staff and patients.

The visit of the Minister of Health to TCI Hospital emphasized the government's dedication to ensuring quality healthcare services and fostering positive relationships with key healthcare stakeholders. By engaging with hospital senior managers, the minister had the opportunity to discuss important issues and strategic plans for the future of healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

During the tour of the hospital, the minister took the time to meet with dedicated hospital staff, expressing gratitude for their unwavering commitment to patient care. The minister recognized the significant contributions made by frontline healthcare workers and applauded their efforts in providing outstanding healthcare services to the community.

Moreover, the minister interacted with patients, taking a keen interest in hearing their experiences and listening to their feedback. This visit not only demonstrated the minister's personal investment in the well-being of the citizens but also emphasized the

Government's commitment to improving the patient experience and ensuring their voices are heard.

"As we move forward, it is crucial to collaborate closely with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, more specifically the Ministry of Health and Human Services to ensure accessible and high-quality healthcare for all. I am committed to working hand-in-hand with the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and the dedicated team at the Ministry of Health and Human Services to address the healthcare needs of our community,” said CEO of the TCI Hospital, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant.

The visit of the newly appointed Minister of Health to TCI Hospital signifies the government's commitment to healthcare excellence and patient-centered care. This engagement with key healthcare stakeholders serves as a positive step towards the further development and enhancement of healthcare services in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Minister Shaun Malcolm attended the tour with Acting Permanent Secretary Ms. Renessa Williams.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital proudly participated in a career symposium hosted by the Hartling Group, where nearly 500 students were in attendance. The hospital's team attended the event to promote careers in healthcare and encourage students to explore opportunities within the industry.

The career symposium organized by the Hartling Group provided a unique platform for students to interact with various professionals and gain insights into different career paths. TCI Hospital, as a leading healthcare institution, recognized the importance of engaging with students and showcasing the diverse range of rewarding careers in healthcare.

Representatives from TCI Hospital's team, including doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, were present at the symposium to share their experiences and expertise with the students.

They engaged in informative discussions, offering guidance and advice to those interested in pursuing careers in healthcare.

"We were thrilled to be part of the career symposium hosted by the Hartling Group and to connect with the aspiring students, " said Lorenzo Seymour Human Resource Manager at TCI Hospital. "By participating in events like this, we want to inspire young minds and highlight the numerous opportunities available within the healthcare industry. We believe that encouraging students to consider healthcare careers is essential for the future of our community"

Promoting careers in healthcare is a priority for TCI Hospital, as the institution recognizes the need for skilled professionals in order to provide quality healthcare services to the community.

TCIHOSPITALTeamatCareerSymposiumEvent

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital's Infection Control department organized a series of workshops aimed at preparing hospital staff for a potential cholera outbreak. Recognizing the importance of being proactive in addressing public health concerns, the hospital has taken significant steps to ensure patients' and staff's safety and well-being.

Cholera, a severe gastrointestinal infection caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholera, can spread rapidly under specific conditions, making it crucial for healthcare facilities to be well-prepared and equipped to handle such outbreaks.

Through these workshops, the infection control unit aims to enhance the knowledge and skills of hospital staff, including doctors, nurses, and support staff, regarding the best practices for infection control during a cholera outbreak. The workshops covered the following key areas: Identification and Diagnosis, Infection Prevention and Control, Patient Management, and Communication and Collaboration

TCI Hospital Takes Proactive Measures in Preparation for Cholera Outbreak

The TCI Hospital is actively collaborating with the Ministry of Health and Human Services to ensure a coordinated response in the event of an outbreak.

DemonstrationofproperPPEandmaskuse

Doctors Day 2023

National Doctors' Day is a day set aside to honor and thank all physicians who serve humanity with their skills and compassion. In different countries the daymay be recognized on different days of the year but wherever this day is celebrated, it is done so to recognize the dedicated and committed service of physicians to their patients

Here at the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, Interhealth Canada Ltd, on behalf of the CEO, Dr. Denise Bratihwaite Tennant and our Board , I wish to express appreciation and gratitude to each and every one of you our physicians who give of yourselves tirelessly both on an individual basis as well as members of our dynamic team.

As a physician I can state that I have been extremely proud to be a member of this the TCI Hospital, Interhealth Canada Ltd. physician team, who with constraints of resources, on the tiniest of communities, in a small region of the world, have championed the delivery of quality healthcare to our communities Emerging from the trials of the past 3 years, and despite the challenges and limitations that we face in our environment on a daily basis, as physicians you have remained committed to service and on innumerable occasions, have continued to press onward, going above and beyond the call of duty

For this level of selfless sacrifice we can never thank you enough, but we continue our eternal prayer for your health, peace and prosperity We wish you a happy Doctors’ Day 2023

Dr. Dawn Perry- Ewing Chief of Medical Services

MASK MANDATE UPDATE

TCI Hospital has recently updated its mask mandate in response to COVID-19. Effective immediately, mandatory mask wearing will now be restricted to the inpatient units, while the wearing of masks is still recommended in outpatient departments.

Inpatient units, where patients with various health conditions receive close care and monitoring, will continue to require mandatory mask wearing. This decision is based on the higher risk of exposure and closer proximity in these areas, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients and healthcare providers

While mandatory mask wearing will be limited to the inpatient units, TCI Hospital strongly recommends the continued use of masks in outpatient departments. Outpatient settings may have a lower risk of transmission, but the hospital acknowledges that wearing masks can still play a crucial role in reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19.

Dr DawnPerryEwingChiefofMedicalServices

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital was thrilled to participate in the community walk/run event organized as a part of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force's 223rd-anniversary celebration. As a gesture to recognize the remarkable 223 years of service provided by the police force, the hospital offered health screenings at the event, strengthening their commitment to the well-being of the community.

The walk/run event kick-started the anniversary celebrations of the police force, providing an opportunity for community members to come together and support the dedicated officers who have tirelessly served and protected them. TCI Hospital's involvement aimed to show solidarity with the police force while promoting the importance of health and wellness to the community.

At the event, TCI Hospital arranged various health screening stations, where participants could avail themselves of services such as blood pressure checks, body mass index (BMI) measurements, and general health assessments.

These screenings allowed individuals to get a snapshot of their overall health and, if necessary, take appropriate measures to improve it.

"People's health and well-being are at the core of our mission at TCI Hospital," expressed Takara Bain PR and Marketing Manager. "We are delighted to be a part of the police force's anniversary celebration and contribute to the community's wellness by offering these health screenings. It is our way of expressing gratitude to the police force while advocating for a healthier community."

The health screenings conducted by TCI Hospital not only aimed to promote individual health but also served as an opportunity to educate participants about preventive measures and healthy lifestyle choices. Participants were provided with personalized counseling and guidance by TCI Hospital's healthcare professionals, who emphasized the significance of maintaining good health in leading a fulfilling and productive life.

The collaboration between Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital and the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force during the walk/run event signifies their joint efforts in fostering a healthier community and reinforcing the bond between healthcare providers and law enforcement agencies.

SUCCESSFUL COMMUNITY KIDNEY SCREENING EVENT

Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Human Services, recently organized a highly successful community kidney screening event at Butterfield Square in downtown Providenciales The event aimed to promote awareness about kidney health and provide free screenings to members of the community.

Kidney health is a critical aspect of overall well-being, and the community kidney screening event was organized as part of an ongoing initiative to raise awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention of kidney-related diseases. The event brought together healthcare professionals, volunteers, and community members to promote kidney health and educate about risk factors and prevention measures.

The community kidney screening event at Butterfield Square saw a significant turnout, with community members taking advantage of the opportunity to receive free kidney screenings. The screenings included tests for blood pressure, blood sugar, urine and blood analysis, and kidney function. Participants were provided with individualized results and received guidance from healthcare professionals on maintaining optimal kidney health.

"We are extremely pleased with the success of the community kidney screening event, " said Dr. Vancelee Forbes, Nephrologist and Project Lead at the TCI Hospital. "It was heartening to see so many community members take proactive steps towards their kidney health Early detection and prevention are crucial in combating kidney diseases, and we are grateful for the support and collaboration of the Ministry of Health in making this event possible."

To further extend the reach and impact of the community kidney screening initiative, TCI Hospital and the Ministry of Health are actively planning a similar event for the sister islands. This event will provide residents of the sister islands with an opportunity to access free screenings, education, and resources to promote kidney health and prevent kidney-related diseases.

(L-R):DrVanceleeForbes(Internist/Nephrologist)andDr ZaheedChoudry(Internist/Nephrologist)-TCIHospital

TCIHOSPITALENGAGESFUTURE

SCIENTISTSATANNUAL FORTISTCISCIENCEFAIR

TCI Hospital proudly participated in the annual FortisTCI Science Fair, engaging young students and fostering their interest in the field of healthcare. The hospital's presence at the event showcased its Laboratory Department and Pharmacy Department, while also providing valuable CPR lessons to the curious and eager students.

The Fortis Science Fair serves as a platform for students to explore their scientific curiosity, conduct experiments, and present their findings to a wider audience TCI Hospital recognized the opportunity to inspire and educate these future scientists by showcasing the important roles of laboratory technicians and pharmacists in healthcare.

The Laboratory Department showcased the sophisticated equipment and techniques used to analyze samples and diagnose diseases accurately. The enthusiastic laboratory technicians explained the various tests carried out and their significance in patient care, sparking the students' interest in the fascinating world of diagnostics.

The Pharmacy Department, on the other hand, highlighted the crucial role of pharmacists in dispensing medications and providing pharmaceutical care Students learned about the importance of prescription accuracy, medication safety, and how pharmacists play a vital role in promoting positive patient outcomes.

In addition to these insightful displays, TCI Hospital also provided basic CPR lessons to students visiting the booth. CPR, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation, is a life-saving technique that can be performed in emergency situations, and the hospital believes that it is essential for young individuals to have a basic understanding of it.

The CPR lessons were interactive and engaging, equipping the students with valuable life-saving skills

"We were honored to participate in the Fortis Science Fair and inspire young minds to pursue careers in healthcare," said PR and Marketing Manager Takara Bain. "The fair provided a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about the critical roles of laboratory technicians, pharmacists, and the importance of CPR. We hope that our involvement has ignited a passion for scientific discovery and healthcare in these young individuals."

EmergencyRoomTeamgivesCPRlessons.

Staff Spotlight: Getting to Know Donae Pinnock Beyond the Operating Room

She highlights the hospital's collaborative spirit and shared dedication, emphasising how her colleagues' support and the opportunity to make a real difference in patients' lives continually motivate them to give their best every day.

As we get a closer look into the life of Nurse Pinnock, it is evident that her commitment to holistic well-being, patient-centred care, and personal growth seamlessly aligns with the qualities we value at our hospital.

Can you briefly introduce yourself?

In our hospital newsletter feature, we take a closer look at the remarkable individuals who form the core of our healthcare team. This edition allows you to get to know Donae Pinnock and learn about her unique experiences and interests

While Nurse Pinnock excels in the operating room, her passion for life extends far beyond her professional role. When not caring for patients, Nurse Pinnock can be found engaging in various activities that contribute to her holistic well-being.

Nurse Pinnock humbly credits her fellow healthcare professionals when asked about their motivation and what drives her to excel as an OR Nurse

"My name is Donae Pinnock, and I'm a proud Jamaican hailing from the cool hills of Manchester. Born in the town of Mandeville, I grew up in the small community of Knockpatrick with primarily my mother and younger brother, and though my immediate family was small, I was supported closely by my aunt -my mother's sister- and her family.

I look back on my childhood with very fond memories. My home was filled with love and support, and I did not perceive we were poor My mother was a teacher and stretched to make ends meet. And typically, in some strict Jamaican or Caribbean households, I wasn't allowed to easily run down the street to a friend or have sleepovers, so friends came to my house instead, we'd spend time playing dominos, monopoly, cricket or building hand carts".

OperatingRoomNurseDonaePinnock

Beyond the Operating Room with Nurse Pinnock

Our religious beliefs are critical to who we are today. How did your faith influence you? What was that like for you?

"During the week, we had a strict routine of rising early for worship, dancing through the ice-cold morning showers and heading out to get to school at 7:00 a.m., then returning home to chores and homework before relaxing to a special tv program that we had to choose from the week prior. On the weekends was church on Sabbath and then Pathfinder club (a club likened to scouts or cadets ran by the Seventh Day Adventist Church) on Sunday mornings Here we would learn about God and various life skills, nature, drill and march and outreach, to name a few. Though tedious at times, this routine taught me discipline and leadership, and I also helped to develop my passion for baking and helping people"

How did you become interested in specialising as a OR Nurse?

"My formal education began officially at Manchester High School, where I received 8 CXCs and 8 CAPE, which propelled me to pursue a double major in Chemistry at the University of the West Indies. However, I changed career choices and pursued Nursing at the Northern Caribbean University I spent four years earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and later receiving my license to practice by the Nursing Council of Jamaica. Since then, I've worked as a registered nurse for over seven and a half (7.5) years, with my practice being primarily as an operating theatre nurse

I was first introduced to the operating theatre during my second or third year of clinical rotation as a student I remember observing a Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting or CABG. I was both in awe and excited about the technical set-up for the procedure and then the specifics of the procedure itself. To say I was mesmerised would be putting it lightly Hence, I knew being a perioperative nurse was what I wanted to pursue, and I haven't looked back since. I not only enjoy the procedures themselves but have a love for the care and support of the patients and their relatives before and after the procedures I've found that extra support puts our patients at ease for even some of the direst situations, and it's gratifying to hear the "Thank You's" and gratitude after a case. There'sThere's also no better feeling than knowing you made a difference in that person'sperson's life and even saving a life"

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How did you get to the Turks and Caicos Islands – and now at the Cheshire Hall Medical Centre?

"After working for six years in a relatively small hospital in Jamaica, I started to search for more. This led me to the Turks and Caicos Hospital in September 2021, and thus far, the experience has been mostly positive, and though I'veI've had challenges, these have allowed growth in ways I had not imagined. I've been introduced to a wider variety of procedures and standards of care as well as duties which have aided in expanding my practice I greatly value the mandate of this medical institution to reach for the highest level of care continually and admire the steps being taken along the way. I also expect to do my part to achieve the diamond standard and that the operating theatre continues to operate above and beyond expectations"

We are truly fortunate to have Nurse Pinnock as an integral part of our healthcare team. Her passion, dedication, and well-rounded approach to life make her an outstanding OR Nurse and an inspiring individual who enriches the lives of those around her.

Thank you, Nurse Pinnock, for sharing a glimpse into your life beyond the operating room

We are privileged to have you as part of our Turks and Caicos Islands family.

Lab Week Observed

The Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital participated in Laboratory Week, a nationwide event dedicated to recognizing the crucial role of laboratory professionals and promoting excellence in diagnostics.

This annual event aims to raise awareness about the significant contribution laboratory personnel make to patient care Laboratory Week serves as an opportunity for the healthcare community to acknowledge the tireless efforts and commitment of laboratory professionals who play a vital role in disease diagnosis, prevention, and treatment The week-long celebration provides a platform to highlight the importance of accurate and timely laboratory findings in healthcare decision-making.

NurseDonaePinnockwithfellowORNursecolleagues

As part of its Laboratory Week activities, the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital organized various events and initiatives to showcase the essential work carried out by its laboratory personnel. These dedicated professionals work behind the scenes, conducting intricate tests, analyzing specimens, and delivering accurate results to medical practitioners, thereby aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.

"Observing Laboratory Week at the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital allows us to pay tribute to the hard work and expertise of our laboratory professionals," said Carol Robinson Laboratory Manager. "Their commitment to excellence in diagnostics plays a critical role in providing quality healthcare to our community. We are proud to recognize their contributions and celebrate their dedication."

Events observing the week including a tour of the laboratory department by students, a visit from the Human Resource Department and Leadership Talks facilitated by Mrs Yolande Robinson of the Learn and Lead Educational Centre

Lab Week Cont.

OurExcellentLaboratoryTeam

TCIHOSPITALTEAM IOSHCERTIFIED

TCI Hospital is thrilled to announce that a team of our dedicated managers has successfully achieved international recognition by obtaining their IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) certifications This accomplishment signifies our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our staff, patients, and community.

IOSH certification is globally recognized as a prestigious qualification in the field of occupational safety and health. By completing this comprehensive training program, our managers have gained a deep understanding of risk assessment, hazard identification, incident investigation, and effective safety management systems This certification equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure the highest levels of safety within our organization.

In line with our mission to provide exceptional healthcare services, safety remains at the forefront of our priorities. With our IOSH-certified managers leading the way, TCI Hospital continues to foster a culture of safety excellence and continuous improvement

"The achievement of IOSH certification by our managers underscores our commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for all," said Chief Executive Officer Dr Denise BraithwaiteTennant. "We are incredibly proud of their dedication to enhancing our organization's safety standards and practices, which will ultimately benefit all our stakeholdersstaff, patients, and the wider community."

IOSH certification demonstrates TCI Hospital's strong commitment to best practices in occupational safety and health. It reinforces our ability to prevent accidents, protect human health, and create a safe working environment This achievement further solidifies our position as a leader in delivering exceptional healthcare services in the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital.

Congratulations to Dr Denise BraithwaiteTennant (CEO), Dr Sani Amatti (Deputy Chief of Medical Services), Dr. Royelle Robinson-Myers (Family Medicine) , Mrs Eleanor Hall Chief of Allied Services), Isha Honore (Quality, Risk and Patient Safety Manager) and Takara Bain (Public Relations and Marketing Manager)

DrDeniseBraithwaite-Tennant-CEO,TCIHospital