Midwife Saves Newborn’s Life in Remote Baitadi, Health Minister pays gratitude
Baitadi, Nepal – In a remarkable display of dedication and quick thinking, an Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) in Baitadi’s Sigas Rural Municipality saved the life of a newborn baby by providing artificial respiration for an agonizing six hours. This heroic act underscores the critical role of frontline health workers in remote areas and the severe challenges faced by healthcare services in Nepal’s geographically difficult terrains.
The incident unfolded last Thursday when 20-year-old Laxmi Dhami, from Sigas Rural Municipality-4, was admitted to the Kandhar Basic Health Service Center after experiencing labor pains. Despite all health indicators being normal during the pregnancy, Laxmi gave birth to a baby at 9 PM after enduring intense labor, only to find the newborn in a critical state. The baby showed no typical signs of a healthy newborn – no crying, no limb movement, and critically, a very slow respiratory rate.
Realizing the severity of the situation, ANM Janaki Pujara, who facilitated the delivery, immediately informed the rural municipality’s health branch. The baby’s condition was extremely fragile, requiring immediate transfer to a higher-level hospital. Pujara urgently requested assistance for transportation. However, due to the late hour, a helicopter rescue was impossible. Furthermore, reaching a motorable road from the health center would take approximately four hours, making ground transport equally unfeasible. Tears streamed down Laxmi’s face as hope dwindled for her tiny child.
With no other options for transfer, ANM Pujara faced a stark choice: rely on her experience and provide artificial respiration herself. With six years of experience in healthcare, she began administering mouth-to-mouth resuscitation to the newborn. From 9 PM onwards, Pujara tirelessly provided breaths for a continuous six hours. It was not until 3 AM that the baby finally let out a faint cry, a sound that brought a wave of relief and a weary smile to Pujara’s face, and a tearful, soft smile to the new mother, Laxmi.
The baby is now in a normal condition, and she is regularly conducting post-delivery check-ups. This incident brings to light the stark realities of healthcare in remote regions, where geographical remoteness hinders easy access to public services, including roads.
The rural municipality operates six health posts and five basic health service centers. The majority of these facilities, including all birthing centers, are run by contract staff, according to the rural municipality’s administration.
Health Minister pays gratitude for ANM’s Life-Saving Act , Stresses Need for Dedicated Healthcare Workers
A significant commendation has been extended to Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) Janaki Pujara by the Minister of Health and Population, Pradip Paudel. The Minister’s appreciation was conveyed during a phone conversation with Pujara, who is being hailed for her “god-like contribution” in saving the life of an infant. The newborn, facing severe respiratory complications, could not be transported to a hospital due to the region’s challenging geographical conditions.
It was emphasized by the Minister that despite numerous challenges and difficulties, persistent efforts are being made at local, provincial, and federal levels to enhance and expand health services. In this crucial endeavor, the continuous dedication of healthcare professionals, who tirelessly strive for the preservation of citizens’ lives, is regarded as paramount.
Deep respect was expressed by Minister Paudel for “Janaki and many other ‘Janakis'” across the nation. These individuals are noted for their commitment to safeguarding the country’s health, often without regard for personal comfort or convenience.
“The nation truly needs healthcare workers such as yourselves,” it was stated by the Minister, underscoring the vital role played by these dedicated professionals.
Assurances were also given that the contributions made by these healthcare workers will undoubtedly be recognized and valued.
