After almost nine months in captivity, hostages Noa Argamani, Shlomi Ziv, Almog Meir and Andrey Kozlov have been rescued by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
They are currently undergoing medical examinations at the Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer. In the coming days, the former hostages will undergo extensive medical evaluations to evaluate their health, injuries, alleged sexual assaults and nutritional deficiencies.
Medical procedure
According to the Ministry of Health protocol, the treatment of hostages is carried out in separate areas. Each receives their own room and is accompanied by a nurse, a doctor and a social worker.
Initially, they undergo a general physical examination, which includes an evaluation of their general condition, injuries and bruises, and a complete head-to-toe physical examination.
Blood tests and additional tests
Hostages also undergo general blood tests, which typically include a complete blood count to check for infections, hemoglobin deficiency due to iron deficiency or bleeding, platelet counts, and chemistry tests for nutritional deficiencies or electrolyte imbalances.
Liver and kidney function tests, along with additional blood tests, are also performed to check for vitamin D deficiency. Levels of this essential nutrient can decrease significantly after prolonged periods of darkness.
Orthopedic examinations and, if necessary, x-rays or CT scans are also part of the medical evaluation.
Chronic diseases
Hostages suffering from chronic diseases undergo general examinations by a specialist. Some of the hostages entered captivity with such illnesses, and urgent follow-up tests are being performed to determine if there has been any deterioration in their condition.
Additionally, medications that were not administered during captivity will be re-administered as necessary.
Examinations include discreet testing for possible sexual assault that involves a gynecological examination and the collection of specimens that may indicate such assault.
Female hostages are also likely to undergo pregnancy tests. Throughout the process, each hostage is accompanied by a hospital social worker to assess her psychological distress. If necessary, a psychiatrist or psychologist is called for an evaluation.
Psychological and social support continues during your hospitalization and after discharge.
Family support
Family members of hostages are asked to bring personal items to the hospital, such as clothing, books, shoes, favorite foods and anything else that can help them return to normal life.
