Drouin Lions Club has donated $7784 to buy a new ECG machine for West Gippsland Hospital’s surgical department.

The machine is a critical piece of diagnostic equipment used in circumstances such as when a patient’s condition deteriorates or when a patient experiences chest pain. Surgical and Paediatrics Nurse Unit Manager Babymol Varkey said the new ECG machine replaced older, inefficient equipment.

“The new machine is Wi-Fi connected, which means it can stay outside the patient’s room while in use,” she said. “That is particularly helpful where a patient is infectious, or during a medical emergency when several medical staff need to treat the patient in a small room. It’s a significant piece of equipment and we are grateful to Drouin Lions Club for donating the money to purchase it.”

Club members Erika Wassenberg and Ros Ough visited the hospital this week to see what their club’s donation achieved. They are among 24 club members who helped raise the money through fundraising barbecues, raffles and social nights.

Drouin Lions Club has been a long-term supporter of the hospital and has made other significant financial contributions toward new neonate cots and a resuscitaire for newborns. The club also delivered care packages to staff during the COVID pandemic.