Placement
on Rachael's VSO experience (Malawi), 08/Oct/2010 13:04, 34 days ago
Ok so I have my placement!Mzuzu Central Hospital the job description is very specific but the people I've spoken to have said not to pay a whole lot of attention to it!My main objectives are:Objective 1: Support the improvement of paediatrics patient care by ensuring excellent nursing practice throughout the wardObjective 2: Support Delivery of Paediatrics Nursing CPDLikely duties and responsibilities of the volunteer:These are subject to change- the final work plan will be subject to agreement between the volunteer, the employer and VSO at the start of the placement. Duties and responsibilities will involve some capacity building (at least 50% of the time) and some direct delivery of services.Other responsibilities will include:* Provide on job training for nursing staff in paediatrics ward* Delivery of nursing care and nursing activities in the paediatrics ward* Participate in paediatrics departmental/ward meetings* Participate in the review and management of cases in the paediatrics ward and the under five clinics* Support diagnosis and management of childhood diseases.* Support smooth communication and cooperation with staff– nurses, doctors, clinical officers and interns* Develop paediatrics protocols and procedures that are not available in the department* Reinforce use of existent and new paediatrics nursing protocols and proceduresSo that's all they want me to do!! Start date is kind of VSO confirmed as the 7th Feb so I'm guessing we arrive the 6th!So since this has been confirmed I have been trying to learn Chichewa (zikomo - thankyou!! pepani - sorry!!) I've been reading up on HIV and AIDS and childhood disease and tropical illnesses. I have almost got all my immunisations sorted just need one more rabies jab next week then just to decide on antimalarials.Its a stressful time really its also a bit frustrating cos you want to know everything and have a clear idea what you need to take and what is expected of you but you dont really get that. I've emailed the girls in Malawi but obviously with limited internet access its quite difficult for them to get back in touch.I have found out that I will be with a girl that I meant on the preparing to volunteer course so thats great news at least there is someone I can email and ask questions to. At the moment I am wondering avbout nursing uniforms as we only wear scrubs at work so I dunno whether I need to take uniforms with me if I do what colour or style. Just so many questions.... loving it though!!