HEALTH TALK: Medical Experts Suggest Ways to Prevent, Tackle Domestic Emergencies

 

A home is expected to be a place of safety, comfort and protection. Yet, emergencies can occur at any time and may turn an ordinary day into a life-threatening situation within minutes. From electrical fires and gas leaks to burns, choking, falls, flooding, poisoning and medical emergencies, and Nigerian households face a wide range of risks. Knowing how to prevent these incidents, respond appropriately and seek professional assistance quickly can make the difference between a minor accident and a major tragedy.

According to a report by the National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA), Nigeria records more than 6 million medical emergencies every year, with an estimated 1.2 million preventable deaths annually resulting directly from critical gaps in the country’s emergency response infrastructure and basic first-aid awareness. The need to be a grassroots agent at curtailing this dangerous statistics spurred the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Zion Chapel of Lagos Province 57, Oregun Ikeja into bringing health experts together to discuss on “Handling Domestic Emergencies In The Home” in continuation of its annual Health Talk series.

The health programme which was initiated in 2014 by Pastor Godfrey Iluobe and his wife Folakemi has on yearly basis brought professionals in various fields of health and medical practices to discuss and proffer solutions to physical ailments and concerns. This year’s edition brought together experts in the field of general medicine, pharmacy, pediatric and anesthesia.

Their presentations were concentrated on common domestic challenges like burns, injuries, chocking, convulsion, trauma, vomiting, stooling, snake/scorpion bites and allergic reactions. The sessions were moderated by Dr. Dominion Charles-Davies, the medical director of Brafus Specialist Hospital, Lagos; who lamented that many Christians prosper spiritually but ignorantly ignore their healthy living and well-being. In her presentation which was based on how to tackle emergencies as a result of burns, chocking and trauma, Dr. (Mrs) Dorka Bekee, a consultant pediatrician at Reddington Hospital, Ikeja, explained that burns are common household injuries, particularly among children. They may result from hot water, cooking oil, fire, steam, electrical equipment or hot cooking utensils.

Bekee further stated that, “For a minor burn, cool the affected area with clean, cool running water. Avoid applying toothpaste, engine oil, raw egg, butter or other traditional substances to the wound. Do not deliberately break blisters. Serious burns require urgent medical attention, especially when they involve the face, hands, major joints or large areas of the body. Cuts and bleeding should also be handled carefully. Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or dressing to control bleeding. If the bleeding is severe, persistent or caused by a deep wound, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.”

Dr. Henrietta Nwamaka Igbokwe, the head of department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology & Biotechnology, College of Medicine, UNILAG; who spoke on “Drug Use and Emergencies at Home” warned that every drug is a potent poison and everyone should seek expert consultations instead of self-medicating. She also advised that every household must, as a matter of priority have two medical equipments at home: BP measure machine and Sugar tester. She said, “In addition, a properly stocked first-aid kit should therefore be available in every Nigerian home. It should contain basic items such as sterile dressings, adhesive plasters, gloves, antiseptic supplies and other appropriate first-aid materials. However, first-aid treatment should not replace professional medical care when the injury is serious.” Dr. Igbokwe also warned on how Nigerians take herbal concoctions without recourse to its adverse effects, as it can induce other severe complications.

The chief medical officer of General Hospital, Gbagada Lagos, Dr. Yinka Anifowoshe, an anesthesiologist, who further spoke on what to do with victims of burns and sudden falls at home also recommended that other medical emergencies—including unconsciousness, severe breathing difficulties, suspected stroke, severe allergic reactions, seizures, serious injuries and chest pain—should be treated as urgent situations. “The person should be kept safe while professional medical help is summoned. Household members should consider learning basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) from a recognised training provider. Domestic emergencies can happen without warning, but their consequences can often be reduced through preparation, awareness and responsible action”, he concluded.

After the presentations, the audience and congregants were given opportunities to ask questions as well as make observations on areas not fully exhausted. In a brief chat with the host pastor, Godfrey Iluobe, he advised participants not to just be hearers of the word but doers of the knowledge they gained from the forum, as the scripture also emphasise that prevention is better than cure.

The full programme can be accessed on the church social media platforms: RCCG Zion Chapel LP57

 

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