Dr. Yi-Horng Lee, Chief of Pediatric Surgery at Bristol-Myers Squibb Children’s Hospital, explained the nutritional aspects of neonatal (newborn) care and normal functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. He and two of his nurses discussed the nutritional needs of children at various stages of growth, and how infants with feeding difficulties are evaluated. Students learned when and why doctors place gastrostomy tubes in infants, delivering nutrition directly to the stomach. Dr. Lee also showed a pre-recorded tube insertion procedure, and discussed the surgical tools used and patient care.
Elizabeth Nocera’19 said she hopes the freshman members of St. Brigid Society participate in this program again in the future. “I had a very great time learning new things about the medical profession, of which I am hoping to become a part,” she said. “I feel that the members of the St. Brigid Society next year will really enjoy being exposed to new careers, such as Dr. Lee’s.”
Alessandra Priolo’19 also enjoyed the experience. “If I had to rate today's trip on a scale from 1-10, I would give it a 10. The presentation was interesting, detailed, and I learned a lot,” she said. “I also enjoyed the freedom we were given when walking around the center after lunch. It was really cool to see the surgery from the endoscope point-of-view while being able to ask questions to better understand the procedure.”