Ode to Biotech

Mae Sot, Thailand

I have been on 16 missions so far and have enjoyed every one-the other volunteers, the in country nurses, and the patients so much. The most constant good memory is working with the Biotech guys. Where would the missions be without these guys? Nowhere - as in not happening. I am always amazed what they can make work in any hospital. I know as an OR nurse the Biotech is my best friend. I know not to plug anything in without their OK-it kills machines. I love the little autoclaves that we have but they get a lot of use and can be very temperamental. On some missions it was a daily job of the Biotech to get the autoclaves working. Anes would be nowhere without working anes machines ,oxygen,suction machines. Almost every surgery needs a bovie. If Biotech says it’s not safe then we’re not doing it. Some have cleaned and sterilized instruments and I thank them so much for that. I have seen them interact with patients, help lift and carry patients. 99 times out of a 100 there seems to be no task that they’re not willing to help with.

So thank you Biotech for making every mission safe and enjoyable.

- Nancy Chandler, Operation Smile volunteer OR Nurse