STELLALANDER-VRYBURG: Joe Morolong Memorial Hospital in Vryburg (accident and emergency department) has recorded an alarming high number of physical assaults totaling 548 with stab wounds with sharp objects and knives totaled 376 from January 2023 to August 2023.
The number of sexual assaults is also at an alarming rate as 55 cases has been attended to in the hospital for the said period and dominated by 18 years and under.The preliminary investigations pertaining to the stab wounds are promulgated by gangsterism at schools and also in the community, while others are a clear indication of intoxication from alcohol and substance abuse. While the hospital is embedded with the responsibility of curative measures, it is also important that the community members understand what measures to take when a person has been stabbed with a sharp object or knife. On arrival a patient, the accident and emergency department, has to ensure that the patient is stabilized, with several tests conducted to ensure that the patient or victim is managed properly through diagnostic procedure such as X-rays to rule out pneumothorax and in worst case scenario heamopnemotharax which is the escape of air from the lungs coupled with bleeding within the lungs. “The hospital has noted with outmost concern with societal expectations regarding the stab wounds, with the assumption that on arrival the knife should or automatically be removed”, said Acting Assistant Director, Nursing – General, Tshepo Setlhabe. He further indicated that while saving lives is a priority, it is equally important to run tests to determine the extent of damage. “Before attempting to remove the knife quickly, it is risky as it might end with uncontrollable bleeding which can lead to death. Most of severe stab wounds are then referred to Tertiary Hospitals which are equipped with specialists to treat and manage the wound”, highlighted Setlhabe. “Of great concern is the number of sexual assault cases that has been recorded, as 80% of the victims or patients are under the age of 18”, lamented Setlhabe. The hospital is appealing to sexual assault victims that they should report to the nearest police station after the sexual assault has occurred and the clothes that they were wearing should not be changed as it is part of evidence collection. “The common trend is that sexual assault victims would wash or take a bath and it is important that they should not do so as it is a prerequisite when examined by the health professional for evidence collection” said Setlhabe. In relation to curative measures, the hospital, gives full treatment for post exposure prophylaxis for HIV, sexual transmitted infections, hepatitis and pregnancy within 72 hours. It is mandatory by the hospital to offer counselling either by a psychologist or social worker to the victims. In case the perpetrator is known and pose a risk to the victim then a place of safety will be offered. “Trauma counselling will be given regularly to ensure that the victim recovery is optimized”, concluded Setlhabe.
