Hospital Prepares for Freed Israeli Hostages: A Unique Medical Challenge
The Rabin Medical Center in Petah Tikva is gearing up to receive the first hostages released by Hamas in Gaza, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict. Dr. Michal Steinman, the head of nursing, is at the forefront of this operation, ready to welcome the hostages back to their families after over 700 days in captivity.
"It's a privilege to be part of this," Dr. Steinman says, emphasizing the emotional weight of the moment. "These moments will define my life, symbolizing values as a nurse, a mother, a woman, and an Israeli."
Twenty living hostages are expected to be released, and several will be brought to this hospital. This will be the hospital's third time operating the hostage unit, a specialized medical team trained to handle the unique challenges of post-captivity care.
The team has learned crucial lessons from previous releases in November 2023 and January. The first lesson is the importance of being a "medical detective," understanding the physical and psychological impact of captivity. They've discovered that symptoms may not appear immediately, and the body remembers the trauma, requiring careful observation and time to uncover the full extent of the damage.
"We're still learning from the hostages who returned in January and February," Dr. Steinman explains. "Every week, we discover something new about their experiences."
The second lesson is the need for patience and flexibility. The unit employs a wide range of professionals, from nutritionists to mental health specialists, all working together to provide comprehensive care. The hospital environment is designed to be welcoming, with private rooms, soft furnishings, and a "do not disturb" policy to ensure the hostages feel comfortable and respected.
"Medical professionals are task-oriented," Dr. Steinman notes. "Here, we must give them space and flexibility, balancing urgency with patience."
One of the critical tasks is determining the hostages' nutritional needs, considering some may have lost more than half their body weight. Karina Shwartz, the director of social work, emphasizes the importance of family dynamics and communication. She highlights the power of active listening, understanding that silence can be just as loud in these sensitive situations.
"The most important thing is what we don't say," she says. "We must create a safe space for the hostages to share their experiences without judgment."
The team's work doesn't end with the hostages' return home. Medical and psychological rehabilitation will continue, and they must prepare the hostages for re-entering the real world. Ms. Shwartz stresses the need for the hostages to understand that they will be embraced by the public, a reality that can be overwhelming after years of isolation.
"Everyone will want to be friends," she advises. "It's okay to say no, and it's safe to do so."
The anticipation and nervousness among the staff are palpable, with many nurses volunteering for extra shifts. Dr. Steinman, a dedicated and tattooed director of nursing, reflects on the emotional journey, finding hope and strength in the human spirit.
"The greatest pleasure will be when this mission is complete," she says. "Knowing that this is the last time we open this unit, we can finally say the nightmare is over."
