New Cardiotocograph (CTG) Machine And Two Obstetric Dopplers To Gosford Hospital

Some of Gosford Hospital’s smallest patients will benefit from new equipment for the Birthing Suite thanks to a generous donation from the Lions Club of Green Point-Avoca.

The Lions Club, with assistance from the Saratoga IGA Community Chest and the Lions NSW-ACT Save Sight & Public Health Care Foundation, raised almost $15,000 for a new cardiotocograph (CTG) machine and two obstetric dopplers.

Midwifery Unit Manager Kylie Normandale said the new equipment would enhance the level of care provided to mothers and their babies.  “The obstetric dopplers are used to monitor the fetal heart beat. These dopplers are waterproof so they can be used in the shower, or if the mother chooses to have a water birth,” Ms Normandale said.

“The CTG monitors a baby’s heart beat throughout labour. This machine is used primarily to recognise if the baby is in distress. If this is not recognised, it may tragically result in serious injury to the baby or even death.

“This particular machine allows women to be mobile throughout their labour which can help them be more comfortable.” Ms Normandale said it was very gratifying to receive such support from the local Lions, their Foundation and the staff and customers of IGA at Saratoga.

“We are grateful to have the unwavering support of the Green Point-Avoca Lions Club and our community, who are always willing to help us to continue to provide a high level of care for our patients,” Ms Normandale said.

Members of the Lions Club and Jeff Kukura representing the Foundation recently joined staff from Gosford Hospital for a demonstration of the new equipment.

Lions Club Green Point-Avoca President Dennis Fisher commented “It was wonderful to see how the staff at Gosford Hospital will be putting the new equipment to good use to enhance the level of care they provide birthing mothers and babies.  We know how important it is for babies to have the best possible start in life and we are pleased we could contribute to this.”

“We are very proud to have raised the money for the purchase of this equipment and would like to thank the NSW-ACT Save Sight & Public Health Care Foundation, IGA at Saratoga and the local community for getting behind us”, he added.