In the demanding environment of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, innovation became a necessity. Jemila Naa-Dei Neequaye, a nurse with an RN and BSN in Pediatrics, exemplified this necessity through her groundbreaking work in neonatal care.

In early 2014, Jemila faced a critical challenge. The NICU was under-equipped, particularly lacking sufficient Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices necessary for supporting premature babies and those with respiratory distress. Frequent use of the existing CPAP machines led to the wear and tear of essential components, such as the bi-valve connectors, making many devices inoperative.

Amidst this equipment shortage, Jemila's resourcefulness led her to a simple yet effective innovation. She improvised a bi-valve connector using three needle caps arranged in a Y shape and secured with plaster. This makeshift solution enabled the continued use of bubble CPAP systems, critical for maintaining the delicate pressure oscillations needed to support neonatal lung function.

Jemila's innovative connector quickly became a reliable tool in the NICU, allowing multiple babies to receive the necessary respiratory support simultaneously. This solution not only addressed the immediate equipment shortage but also provided a cost-effective method for assembling bubble CPAP systems using readily available materials, such as empty mineral water bottles, oxygen tubings, and nasal prongs.

Recognizing the broader potential of her innovation, Jemila spearheaded training sessions for her colleagues and healthcare professionals in other facilities, including Ewim Polyclinic. These sessions equipped healthcare providers with the knowledge to implement this cost-effective technique, thereby improving neonatal care across multiple hospitals.

Jemila's ingenuity has had a lasting impact on neonatal care. Her improvised bi-valve connector and training initiatives have enhanced the capacity of NICUs to support premature babies, ultimately contributing to reduced neonatal mortality rates. Her work stands as a testament to the power of innovation in healthcare, proving that even simple solutions can lead to significant improvements in patient outcomes