Study of makeshift hospital during cholera outbreak.

ABSTRACT

This is a report on the study of utilization pattern of a makeshift hospital during a major cholera outbreak, by analyzing data on dehydration status, distance covered, number of deaths averted, and operation-wise comparison with other permanent facilities. To avoid unnecessary deaths due to dehydration and to ensure prompt and adequate care to suddenly accumulated debilitated patients, the makeshift hospital intervened. Subsequent to the intervention, a gradual reduction in patient admissions and cholera case accumulations was noted. Nearly half the cholera cases attending the makeshift hospital came from relatively far (13 + miles). The reporting of the majority (72%) of cholera patients with none-to-mild dehydration indicates an increased awareness of the need for early treatment during a cholera outbreak. Early attendance of diarrhoeal patients probably saved more patients by preventing shock and complications. Para-professionals given a short training accomplished similar efficacy as in a permanent facility. Nearer the affected areas, a simple but effective temporary facility is more effective than a sophisticated facility which is further away and takes several hours to reach, with risk to patients.