The Department of Nursing Science recently participated in a community engagement event at the Bishop Lavis Community Health Centre.
The aim was to facilitate staff development and to identify the needs of the community – an initiative driven by the Head of Department, Prof Karien Jooste, for the past six years.
“To assist in the patients’ nutritional needs, the staff members provided sandwiches and tea to the patients in the waiting area. This allowed the patients to have breakfast and safely consume their chronic medication, as many of the patients wake up early to attend the clinic and do not have time to eat.,” said Bridgette Lockett, Programme Coordinator for Primary Care Nursing.
Health education was provided by the lecturers and clinical mentors throughout the four areas of the clinic, as identified by the Facility Manager, Sr Rachel Carelse.
“Hypertension and Diabetes Mellitus are two of the chronic disorders identified within this community. The health education specifically focused on Diabetes Mellitus. The patients were educated on how to monitor their blood glucose levels, how to take their prescribed medication and the importance of maintaining their health and well-being,” added clinical coordinator, Ursula Mafaro.
Carelse also discussed the initiatives in place to support the community in maintaining their health, e.g. community walks in the morning and healthcare workers delivering chronic medication to patients, thus ensuring their compliance.
The Bishop Lavis Community Health Centre has worked alongside the Department of Nursing Science in accommodating students for their placements during work-integrated learning. This includes both the undergraduate as well as the postgraduate programme, providing services to the community.
Written by CPUT News
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