Who assisted in the delivery when help was scarce?

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A Paramedic Assisted in the Delivery Amidst Scarcity

When Eliana Garcia went into labour unexpectedly on a baseball field following twin earthquakes in Venezuela, a paramedic provided assistance for the delivery. The paramedic, who was herself searching for family members amidst the devastation, stepped in when Garcia's sister-in-law sought help. This occurred in the early hours of June 25, as aftershocks continued to rattle the area and rescuers were occupied with searching for survivors.
Delivery Under Difficult Conditions

The birth took place without essential medical supplies due to the lack of running water and electricity. The paramedic improvised by using hand sanitiser and the light from mobile phones to facilitate the delivery. Garcia, who was 38 weeks pregnant, had been informed that a natural birth was unlikely due to her narrow pelvis and a caesarean section was scheduled for a week later.
Improvised Methods for Umbilical Cord Management

Following the baby's birth, the umbilical cord needed to be cut. In the absence of medical equipment, hair ties were utilised to secure the cord at both ends. Subsequently, a pair of nail scissors was used to cut the cord. The newborn boy was initially silent but began to cry, drawing applause from the onlookers.
Subsequent Care and Family Tragedy

After the delivery, Garcia and her newborn were transported by her family, first in a motorised garbage cart and then by ambulance to a public hospital. They were later moved to an emergency shelter in La Guaira, a region heavily impacted by the earthquakes. While Garcia and her son survived, her family suffered a profound loss, with two nieces, aged 14 and 11, confirmed dead after being found beneath their collapsed apartment building.

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Who assisted in the delivery when help was scarce?

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