On October 31, 2024, Shirikisho Dispensary held a comprehensive seminar for its Home-Based Care (HBC) volunteers, led by Br. Michael, to introduce and guide them through the newly launched HBC Guidebook. This seminar aimed to equip our volunteers with practical insights and hands-on guidance, reinforcing the dispensary’s commitment to quality and consistency in caring for people living with HIV/AIDS and other chronic conditions.
Facilitators provided an in-depth overview of the guidebook, focusing on its structured approaches to patient care, ethical guidelines, and care standards. Key sections of the guidebook were discussed, including patient assessment protocols, palliative care methods, psychological support techniques, and infection control practices. Volunteers were encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions on real-life applications of the guidebook’s principles, making the session highly interactive and insightful.
The seminar enhanced volunteers’ skills in:
Patient Assessment and Monitoring: Volunteers were taught techniques for effectively assessing patients’ physical, emotional, and social needs, stressing the importance of consistent documentation and follow-up care.
Infection Control and Hygiene: Volunteers were guided on best practices for infection control, including the proper use of personal protective equipment and hygiene measures to protect both caregivers and patients.
Emotional and Psychological Support: The guidebook includes strategies for offering psychological support to patients and their families. Volunteers practiced communication techniques for providing compassionate care and learned ways to help patients cope with emotional distress.
Nutritional and Medical Assistance: Emphasis was placed on helping patients with dietary guidance and adhering to medical schedules, which are essential for managing long-term health.
The seminar was highly effective in helping volunteers understand and apply the guidebook’s content. Volunteers expressed appreciation for the clarity and practicality of the information, with many feeling more confident in their roles as caregivers
The HBC seminar was a crucial step in empowering our volunteers to deliver consistent, quality care using the HBC Guidebook as a core resource. We anticipate that the guidebook, along with the knowledge gained in this seminar, will significantly enhance our future efforts in home-based care.
