Component Task: Home Visit to a Client with Elephantiasis

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

Aims

·         Encourage client to do daily washing and drying of affected parts to prevent acute attacks, reduce unpleasant odour and heal entry lesions

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

·         Encourage client to adhere to treatment therapy

·         Support client 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 the home visit bag

8.      Wash hands/alcohol hand rub with appropriate technique

9.      Wash and dry affected part with antiseptic solution

10.    Wash hands/alcohol hand rub with appropriate technique

11.      Interview and counsel on:

·         Diet

·         Bowel movement

·         Sleep pattern

·         Medication and regular check-ups

·         Care of affected part/Exercise and Rehabilitation

·         Prevention of mosquito bites/use of ITN

·         Relationship with family/community members

·         Personal health

·         Schooling/occupation

·         Any special concerns

12.    Congratulate client and family and schedule for next visit

13.    Record and report findings manually/electronically