Component Task: Home Visit to a Client with Leprosy

This is a visit made to a client with leprosy by the Public/Community health nurse in his/her home.

Aims

·         Educate client and family on how to manage the condition at home

·         Counsel client and family to avoid social isolation, stigma and misconceptions about the condition

·         Encourage client to adhere to treatment therapy

·         Support client to be able to live an independent life

Types

·         Selective

·         Routine

Requirements

·         Refer to items in the well-equipped home visiting bag

·         Map of the area/community

·         Records of the client manually/electronically

·         Register of the area/community

·         Arrange for transportation

Steps

1.      Read map of the community

2.      Knock, enter, greet and introduce self

3.      Ask about general health

4.      Observe environment for cleanliness, safety and comment

5.      Ensure privacy and confidentiality

6.      Assist client to identify health needs

7.       Check and use items in home visit bag

8.      Wash hands/alcohol hand rub with appropriate technique

9.      Test for skin sensitivity

10.    Examine skin for healing/new patches

11.      Dress wounds if necessary

12.    Wash hands/alcohol hand rub with appropriate technique

·         Diet

·         Sleep pattern and recreational activities

·         Continuation of medication

·         Prevention of home accidents

·         Care of hands, feet and eye

·         Relationship with family/community members

·         Date for review and other concerns

13.    Congratulate client and family and schedule for the next visit

14.    Record and report findings manually/electronically