Pohnpei State Hospital is down to one functioning autoclave. Dr. Amy Eisenberg learned from Pelihna Moses RN, Quality Assurance Coordinator for the hospital that they were in desperate need of autoclaves. All sterilization needs are currently being met by one autoclave that is normally used solely for the operating room. The entire hospital now relies on this single autoclave. Dr. Eisenberg noted that there were several Agriculture Experiment Station (AES) autoclaves that are not currently in use and have never been used.

The two autoclaves offered for loan are new and in excellent condition and meet all test parameters. Andy Wilson, Maintenance Specialist for Pohnpei State Hospital, inspected and tested the autoclaves and found them to be in excellent condition and working order. Andy expressed that the boiler used to provide the steam for the failed autoclave at the hospital had rusted out and was not repairable.

In an effort to help the hospital, which has no current budget for equipment of this type, Dr. Eisenberg has notified the college of these needs.

The College of Micronesia is working to obtain the legal documents for loaning this invaluable equipment to Pohnpei State Hospital.

June 6, 2011