Ep 27. Inside Afghan ER

Inside Afghan ER is an episode from the National Geographic Documentaries season 2009 that takes viewers inside the Emergency Room of the American military base in Kandahar, Afghanistan. The episode highlights the challenges medical professionals must overcome to provide medical care to the sick and injured in a warzone.

The episode begins by showing the overwhelming number of patients that come through the ER on a regular basis. The medical team must be prepared for anything, from gunshot wounds and explosive injuries to illnesses and routine check-ups. The episode features interviews with the medical staff, who share their personal experiences and the struggles they face while working in the ER.

The show also gives viewers a glimpse of the living conditions on the base, including the limited resources and overcrowded living spaces. The medical staff must contend with these challenges while working long shifts, often with little rest.

Inside Afghan ER also highlights the emotional toll that war takes on the patients and medical staff. The episode features interviews with injured soldiers, and the medical team shares their frustrations and feelings of helplessness when they cannot save a patient's life.

In addition to the personal stories, the show explores the political and social ramifications of war. The episode delves into the effects of war trauma on soldiers and their families, as well as the physical and psychological impact on civilians caught in the crossfire.

Overall, Inside Afghan ER offers viewers a powerful and often heartbreaking look at the realities of war and its impact on those who must provide care in the midst of conflict. The episode highlights the bravery and dedication of the medical staff who risk their own lives to save others and sheds light on the importance of healthcare in crisis situations.