The Incubator #158 - 🛩️ High-Stakes Missions: A Look into Military Neonatal Transports with Drs. Laura Borruso, Mike Guindon, and Liz Okonek
Ever wonder what it's like to transport a neonate across the globe in the high-stakes environment of military medicine? Three military neonatologists, Drs. Laura Borruso, Mike Guindon, and Liz Okonek, here to offer a rare glimpse into this challenging and vital aspect of their work. Transporting such fragile patients is far from easy, fraught with challenges around temperature regulation, resource allocation, and the use of equipment not approved for aircrafts. Listen in to learn how they overcome these hurdles while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of their young charges.
The distance between military and civilian transports is further than one might expect, not just geographically, but also in terms of the costs involved, the planning required, and the specialized expertise needed. Our expert guests share how they navigate these unique challenges, from the paradox of opportunity costs to the absolute necessity of bringing extra supplies. They also delve into the critical strategies for maintaining a baby's vitals during these intense journeys.
Lastly, join our neonatologists as they explore the daunting challenges of high-altitude medical transport, dealing with potential complications such as hypoxia and the crucial importance of communication and collaboration within their teams. Hear about the camaraderie they build during these missions and gain an appreciation for the extraordinary lengths the US military goes to ensure the safe transport of patients. This is a side of neonatology and military service that you won't want to miss.
As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: nicupodcast@gmail.com. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below.
Enjoy!