By Multi-National Corps - Iraq PAO
May 28, 2007 - 6:37:27 PM

Intermediate Care Ward staff of the 399th Combat Support Hospital, in front row from left to right, Spec. Darci Brower, licensed practical nurse, and Capt. Wendy Ross, registered nurse; in back row from left to right, Maj. Michael Moulding, officer-in-charge ICW, Capt. Henry Nieves, registered nurse, and Sgt. Amanda Hanson,(Photo by Maj. John Heil, Task Force 3rd Medical Command public affairs)

Blackanthem Military News:

COB SPEICHER, IRAQ – An Intermediate Care Ward located inside the Sunni triangle operates and cares for Coalition and Iraqi Forces.

In addition to the care provided to Coalition and Iraqi Forces, the 20-bed ICW and staff of registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and medics gives the same care and support to local Iraqi citizens.

“Anyone who is admitted to our ward receives the same professional treatment.” said Maj. Michael Moulding, officer in charge of the ICW, 399th Combat Support Hospital. “We don’t turn anyone away,”

The 399th has seen a variety of patients including Coalition and Iraqi Forces as well as Iraqi civilians and detainees.

Of the eight patients in the ICW at the 399th Wednesday, two were American Soldiers and six were Iraqi Forces. The following day, another American Soldier arrived.

Maj. Moulding said patients who leave the Intensive Care Unit at the 399th will generally go to the ICW.  “Whereas the ICU may have a couple patients at a time, the ICW may have eight or more.” said Maj. Moulding.  “Sometimes we may not patients, but other times we may be extremely busy.”

American military patients will usually move on to larger treatment facilities out of Iraq if severity of the situation dictates, but Iraqi citizens will need follow-on care from a local facility or hospital.

“If [American Forces] have more critical needs, and require more extensive care, they may be sent to Germany from the ICW.”

A patient’s length of stay and the seriousness of injuries seen in the ICW varies.  Maj. Moulding said a typical stay is about four days in the ICW, but could be up to eight days for an Iraqi citizen based on securing follow-on care.

“[For Coalition Forces], it is a short time because they are either returned to duty or sent for follow-on medical care.”

Communication is crucial when caring for any patient, but can be difficult when there is a language difference.

“If an Iraqi cannot speak English, an interpreter will help communicate with the medical staff,” said Maj. Moulding.  “We have to work with the Iraqi government and the patient’s family to determine which Iraqi hospital we should send the patient to for follow-on care.”

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