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Can´t believe I´m finally in Nicaragua!
Our group was ready at the airport at 3am on Saturday morning for our flight from Toronto to Nicaragua.When we arrived in Managua, most of us were tired from our trip but were very excited for the coming two weeks. Upon arrival, we were greeted by our hosts from the VIDA organization. Our hosts explained our itinerary for the upcoming weeks and introduced us to the history of the city. That afternoon, we visited the Masaya volcano park where the active Santiago Crater is located. The traditional Nicaraguan cuisine we enjoyed that evening was very delicious and was a great day to wrap up a long day.
The next morning, we were in training first thing after our breakfast. We were introduced to the medical team we are going to work with these coming two weeks. Dr. Angelina explained how to perform the physical examinations we volunteers are going to be responsible for during our clinic days. She also showed us the numerous diseases we will encounter here in Nicaragua and the precautions we have to take.
We practiced how to take blood pressure and other vital signs, and use the stethoscope. In the afternoon, we were taught basic Spanish conversational skills to facilitate our work and to better communicate with the local community. In the evening, we arrived in Masaya where we stay with a local family for three days.
Our first day at the clinic was simply fantastic!
I worked with another volunteer to set up the pharmacy for our clinic in the morning. We were also in charge of distributing all the medications prescribed at the clinic. Moreover, I was given the opportunity to learn and perform a Pap smear tests under the supervision of the nurse of our medical team.
In the afternoon, along with another 2 volunteers, we performed physical examinations for the incoming patients and worked with our doctors to pinpoint the right diagnosis and prescribe the right medication.
Our clinic ran from 8 am to 4 pm in the evening. After sharing a meal with our homestay family, we learned how to salsa in a dancing class organized by VIDA hosts.
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