VGH Thrift Store sets sights on saving lives

Above photo: In the VGH Emergency trauma bay (l to r): Emergency nurses Kristine Spiess and Neelam Ladhar (with a rapid infuser); Lara Gurney, nurse clinician, and Becky De Groot, emergency nurse.

When a patient at risk of losing life or limb arrives at the VGH Emergency Department (ED), the trauma team is ready — but what about their equipment?

That’s where the VGH Thrift Store wants to make a difference.

The VGH Thrift Store has set itself a goal. It’s striving to raise $50,000 from store sales to purchase a vital piece of equipment — a rapid infuser — for the VGH ED.

“For patients experiencing massive blood loss, rapid infusers can mean the difference between life and death,” says Lara Gurney, nurse clinician. “The equipment safely and rapidly transfuses warmed blood or blood products during trauma resuscitation.”

As a Level 1 Trauma Centre, the VGH ED uses rapid infusers daily. For the most severe cases, two machines may be required for one patient.

“Our infusers are put through their paces,” says Lara, “but they’re nearing the end of their functional life and we could use more.”

VGH Thrift Store appreciates your support

Store donations, including equipment purchases benefitting VCH-Vancouver patients, clients and residents, wouldn’t be possible without your support. The VGH Thrift Store welcomes your clothing, books and other household items for resale. Please drop off donations during store hours only.