Christmas has come early this year for staff at Dunedin Hospital's children's ward, after the Countdown Kids Hospital Appeal yesterday gave $115,495 for new specialised equipment.
Southern District Health Board children's health clinical leader David Barker was delighted with the sum, and said it would benefit many children and their families.
''In the past, we've put contributions towards bits of equipment such as an incubator for transporting sick neonates [newborns].''
Dr Barker said he had several items of medical equipment on his wish list which would be put forward for consideration for purchase using the money.
The list included a simulation mannequin, to allow staff to practise resuscitation techniques.
''This one is based on a 6-year-old child and you can actually programme in different scenarios in terms of the way the mannequin responds to the staff interaction with it.
''Another piece of equipment is a hand-held device which can be used to locate veins, which can be particularly tricky on small children because their veins are smaller.
''That allows us to put in intravenous cannulas more quickly and efficiently with less stress to the child.''
Dr Barker said the hospital also hoped to buy a retinal camera, which could screen for retinopathy of prematurity - an eye condition that can affect newborns.
It would allow detailed photos of babies' eyes to be taken and sent to Christchurch for analysis, rather than having to send the child to Christchurch.
''We're extremely grateful for this donation. Christmas has come early.''
The appeal has seen local DHB and Countdown staff take part in activities to raise funds for essential medical equipment at children's hospitals across New Zealand.
Appeal chairwoman Ruth Krippner said the Dunedin children's ward was one of 12 across the country to receive a share of the $1.3 million raised this year.
Fundraising activities included running and cycling events, baking and selling nearly 7000 cheese rolls, and even head shaves done by Countdown staff, she said.
