Component Task: Counselling of a Mother at Child Welfare Clinic (CWC)

This is a dialogue between Public/Community health nurse and the mother/caregiver at CWC on obvious findings on the baby and prevailing health issues to make an informed decision.

Aims

·         Inform mother/caregiver on findings made on the baby

·         Present to the mother/caregiver options available to make an informed decision

·         Create an emotionally safe space and an accepting caring relationship in which the mother/caregiver can explore

·         Foster cordial relationship between mother/caregiver and health workers

Requirements

·         Master chart for grading nutritional status

·         Hand washing facilities- veronica bucket, plastic bowls, soap in a dish, hand towels

·         Electronic/manual visual aids for education

·         Blue and red pens, pencils, eraser and ruler

·         Child health record book

·         Furniture which includes chairs, tables, bulletin board

Steps

1.        Ensure privacy and confidentiality

2.      Find out about the health of the family

3.      Re-inspect the child’s health record    book for entries made

4.      Educate mother/caregiver on child’s growth pattern using the child’s health record book

5.      Counsel mother/caregiver on:

·         Diet

·         Immunization

·         Personal cleanliness and general care

·         Family planning

·         Importance of the child health record book and CWC

·         Any other problems

6.      Compliment mother and schedule for next visit

7.       Wash hands/alcohol hand rub with appropriate technique

8.      Record and report findings manually/electronically