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Public Health Specialist (Epidemiology) at World Health Organization (WHO)

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Contract Duration (Years, Months, Days): 1

Job Posting

Jun 8, 2024, 7:34:16 AM

Closing Date

Jun 29, 2024, 10:59:00 PM

Primary Location

Nigeria-Abuja

Organization

World Health Organization and Other Entities

Schedule

Full-time

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

Please note that the deadline for receipt of applications indicated above reflects your personal device’s system settings.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME:

The incumbent will enhance national capacity in overall disease prevention and control by collaborating on the development and implementation of national, public health Programmes and strategies on surveillance and response which may include emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. This may also serve to strengthen early detection, verification and rapid response to epidemics and other public health events of national or international concern.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

The incumbent will perform all, or part of the following, and other related responsibilities as required by the needs of the office.1.

Advance coordination with all technical focal points at regional and headquarters levels, under the guidance of the head of the WHO country office.2.

Provide authoritative advice to national public health authorities and lead the epidemiological work of the country office that under pins policy formulation.

Support relevant teams on building core capacities for surveillance, early detection, verification and rapid response to epidemics and other public health events of international concern, as required in the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005.

Ensure that the WHO Country Office has access to all relevant existing country-specific health-related data.

This includes national and subnational datasets, such as demographics of populations affected by specific diseases (relevant age,gender, etc.) and time trends.

Analyze such data sets to provide additional insights on the country’s health context and epidemiological situation.

Serve as focalperson for all internal and external requests related to country-specific data. As needed, ensure government agreement for the use and dissemination of such data.

Assist the government and relevant institutions on the enhancement of national capacities in epidemic and disease-trends’ forecasting and detection systems, including epidemiology and laboratory surveillance for monitoring and evaluating the core surveillance and real-time analysis of outbreak intelligence data.

Lead and coordinate the development of training courses for public health professionals on epidemiological surveillance, outbreak investigation, and/or the improvement of related data management.

Oversee the WHO Office’s support to the government in conducting field investigations of public health events. when required by the specific country or health situation.

Collaborate with Health Emergency teams to promote WHO’s position and successfully influence national health authorities to develop infection prevention and control programmes in health care facilities, including (where and when required) focusing on preparedness and response to epidemics and pandemics.

Participate, as needed, in risk assessments for unusual health events.

Collaborate with relevant authorities on the development and maintenance of a national system or comprehensive data collection and trend analysis of public health events.

Play a lead role in the analysis, interpretation, and knowledge building of surveillance data (including virological data) through WHO and peer-reviewed publications and media.

Encourage collaboration and develop innovative advocacy initiatives and project proposals for joint action and resource mobilization to augment national, operational responses to public health events.

Act as the mainliais on between government and WHO (all levels) on country-specific data gathering and dissemination of WHO-generated data and data analysis.

Perform other activities as required by WHO Representative.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONSEducationEssential: Advanced university degree (Master’s level) in epidemiology, public health, medical or other studies in a field directly related to the position.Post-graduate training in epidemiology (EPIET) or similar programme
Desirable: Specialized training in public health would be an asset with a focus on monitoring impact of public health interventions
ExperienceEssential: A minimum of seven (7) yearsof work experience relevant to the position (in epidemiology including developing and/or implementing Programmes, policies, and guidelines as well as monitoring and evaluation of diseases and public health issues), with some of it obtained in an international context. Part of this must have been in a developing country context
Desirable: Experience in public-health responses in complex emergency and humanitarian crisis situations Experience in WHO or within the UN system with an understanding of its mandate, goals, and procedures
SkillsDemonstrated knowledge and professional skills in the development and implementation of public health surveillance systems.Seasoned expertise in the collection, analysis, and interpretation of epidemiological and event-based surveillance data. Strong ability to process, analyse and interpret epidemiological and event-based surveillance data. Expertise in providing technical support/guidance for a rapid, public-health response topublic-health events.Experience in data analysis and interpretation related to epidemics/pandemics.Knowledge of the communicable and non-communicable disease profile of the country. Demonstrated training skills (developing and conducting training).Ability to lead and coordinate multidisciplinary teams, projects, and programmes. Demonstrated skills to develop public-health guidelines
WHO CompetenciesTeamwork
Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
Communication
Building and promoting partnerships across the organization and beyond
Producing results
Use of Language Skills

Essential: Expert knowledge of English.
Desirable:

REMUNERATION

WHO salaries for staff in the Professional category are calculated in US dollars. The remuneration for the above position comprises an annual base salary starting at USD 77,326 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable), a variable post adjustment, which reflects the cost of living in a particular duty station, and currently amounts to USD 3873 per month for the duty station indicated above. Other benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level
  • Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
  • A written test and/or an asynchronous video assessment may be used as a form of screening.
  • In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
  • According to article 101, paragraph 3, of the Charter of the United Nations, the paramount consideration in the employment of the staff is the necessity of securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity. Due regard will be paid to the importance of recruiting the staff on as wide a geographical basis as possible.
  • Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to WHO Staff Regulations, Staff Rules and Manual.
  • Staff members in other duty stations are encouraged to apply.
  • The WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment of mutual respect. The WHO recruits and employs staff regardless of disability status, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, language, race, marital status, religious, cultural, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, or any other personal characteristics. 
  • The WHO is committed to achieving gender parity and geographical diversity in its staff. Women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of unrepresented and underrepresented.
  • Persons with disabilities can request reasonable accommodations to enable participation in the recruitment process.
  • An impeccable record for integrity and professional ethical standards is essential. WHO prides itself on a workforce that adheres to the highest ethical and professional standards and that is committed to put the WHO Valuer into practice.
  • WHO has zero tolerance towards sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA), sexual harassment and other types of abusive conduct (i.e., discrimination, abuse of authority and harassment). All members of the WHO workforce have a role to play in promoting a safe and respectful workplace and should report to WHO any actual or suspected cases of SEA, sexual harassment and other types of abusive conduct. To ensure that individuals with a substantiated history of SEA, sexual harassment or other types of abusive conduct are not hired by the Organization, WHO will conduct a background verification of final candidates.
  • Mobility is a condition of international professional employment with WHO and an underlying premise of the international civil service. Candidates appointed to an international post with WHO are subject to mobility and may be assigned to any activity or duty station of the Organization throughout the world.
  • WHO also offers wide range of benefits to staff, including parental leave and attractive flexible work arrangements to help promote a healthy work-life balance and to allow all staff members to express and develop their talents fully.
  • The statutory retirement age for staff appointments is 65 years. For external applicants, only those who are expected to complete the term of appointment will normally be considered.
  • Please note that WHO’s contracts are conditional on members of the workforce confirming that they are vaccinated as required by WHO before undertaking a WHO assignment, except where a medical condition does not allow such vaccination, as certified by the WHO Staff Health and Wellbeing Services (SHW). The successful candidate will be asked to provide relevant evidence related to this condition. A copy of the updated vaccination card must be shared with WHO medical service in the medical clearance process. Please note that certain countries require proof of specific vaccinations for entry or exit. For example, official proof /certification of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter many countries. Country-specific vaccine recommendations can be found on the WHO international travel and Staff Health and Wellbeing website.
  • WHO also offers wide range of benefits to staff, including parental leave and attractive flexible work arrangements to help promote a healthy work-life balance and to allow all staff members to express and develop their talents fully.
  • The statutory retirement age for staff appointments is 65 years. For external applicants, only those who are expected to complete the term of appointment will normally be considered.
  • Please note that WHO’s contracts are conditional on members of the workforce confirming that they are vaccinated as required by WHO before undertaking a WHO assignment, except where a medical condition does not allow such vaccination, as certified by the WHO Staff Health and Wellbeing Services (SHW). The successful candidate will be asked to provide relevant evidence related to this condition. A copy of the updated vaccination card must be shared with WHO medical service in the medical clearance process. Please note that certain countries require proof of specific vaccinations for entry or exit. For example, official proof /certification of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter many countries. Country-specific vaccine recommendations can be found on the WHO international travel and Staff Health and Wellbeing website.
  • WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.
  • In case the website does not display properly, please retry by: (i) checking that you have the latest version of the browser installed (Chrome, Edge or Firefox); (ii) clearing your browser history and opening the site in a new browser (not a new tab within the same browser); or (iii) retry accessing the website using Mozilla Firefox browser or using another device.

Click here to apply

The Roles Of Nurses In Asthmatic Attack, Cariogenic, And Hypovolemic Shock

What Is Asthma Attack

It is a deterioration of the baseline asthma control leading to acute wheeze, shortness of breath and dyspnoea.

What Causes Asthma Attack

  • Upper respiratory tract infections (especially viral).
  • Shortage of asthma drugs.
  • Exposure to triggers (cold, dust, Smoke, etc)
  • Stress

Signs and Symptoms Of Asthma Attack

  • Wheezing
  • Dyspnoea
  • Mucus secretions
  • Cough
  • Chest tightness
  • Quiet chest and decreased oxygen saturation (severe signs)

Complications Of Asthma Attack

  • Pneumothorax
    Status asthmatics: an intractable asthmatic crisis with severe
    bronchospasm. It is managed by first evaluating ABC, with
    100% oxygen, salbutamol 0.5mg/hr IV, hydrocortisone 200mg
    IV bolus; if not responding give adrenaline 0.1mg/ IV bolus and
    magnesium sulphate 2g IV over 20min; If still not responding
    consider intubation and mechanical ventilation under sedation
    with ketamine12mg/kg IV
  • Investigations
    FBC
    Blood gases
    CXR
  • Do not give sedatives or aminophylline. Give anticholinergic such as ipratropium bromide in case of increased respiratory secretions. Monitor parameters indicating severity.

How To Treat Asthma Attack


Start treatment immediately

  • Semi-sitting position O2 to keep saturation above 90%
  • Short acting Beta 2 agonist nebulisation ( eg salbutamol 5 mg in 5 ml of normal saline over 10 minutes repeated ½ hour later).
  • Hydrocortisone 100 mg IV every 6 hrs
    Assess the need of ventilation according to the response to the therapy
  • Avoidance of the triggering agent if known.
  • Patient education on medication and other strategies

Recommendations

Refer to tertiary level all cases with failure of above therapy of
acute asthma, development of status asthmatics. Also, contact your health provider.

Shock

Definition Of Shock

Shock is a syndrome characterized by decreased perfusion
of the tissues in the body which if prolonged leads to irreversible multiple organ failure.

Classification Of Shock

  • Hypovolemic
  • Cardiogenic
  • Septic
  • Anaphylactic

Complications Of Shock

  • Renal Failure
  • Hepatic Failure
  • Metabolic Acidosis
  • Coma
  • Death

Hypovolemic Shock

Definition Of Hypovolemic Shock

This is due to loss of intravascular fluid volume (blood and/
or fluid loss).

What Is Hypovolemic Shock

  • Excessive haemorrhage ( e.g. trauma, internal bleeding, such as in the gastrointestinal tract)
  • Excessive fluid loss (eg. diarrhoea, vomiting, severe burns)
  • Intestinal obstruction (mechanical or paralytic ileus)

Symptoms Of Hypovolemic Shock

  • Fainting
  • Palpitations
  • Sweating (cold sweat)
  • Restlessness
  • Clouding of consciousness

Signs Of Hypovolemic Shock

  • Pallor
  • Cold extremities
  • Tachycardia
  • Hypotension: Systolic BP <90 mmHg
  • Temperature is subnormal (less than 35°C)

Investigations

  • FBC
  • Serum urea , creatinine and electrolytes
  • Blood sugar
  • Group and crossmatch blood
  • Blood gas analysis if possible
  • Blood cultures

Management

  • Non pharmaceutic
  • Control obvious bleeding with direct pressur
  • Insert one or two large bore IV catheters for rapid IV
    infusion
  • Urinary catheter
    Initial volume resuscitation
  • Raise drip stand or squeeze bag to increase infusion rate:
    Give colloids and/or crystalloids e.g. Sodium Chloride 0.9%.
    Aim to give 70 ml/kg body weight
  • Monitor blood pressure, pulse and clinical response: Target a mean arterial pressure ≥ 65mmHg and urine output > 30ml/hr
  • Most patients will respond to the initial fluid bolus
  • If they respond initially and subsequently deteriorate, there
    may be an ongoing occult haemorrhage
  • Consider blood transfusion (if haemorrhage is >25% of
    total blood volume)
  • Fluid should be given quickly and slowed only when BP
    rises and urine flow is adequate
  • Give Oxygen 6 L/min via nasal or facial masks if indicated
  • Continue to monitor BP, pulse and urine output.

Recommendations

  • Refer to ICU if needed.
  • Refer for surgical intervention if indicated.
  • Consult your health provider.

Cariogenic Shock

What Is Cariogenic Shock

This is advanced cardiac failure with inadequate peripheral
tissue perfusion.

Hemodynamic criteria are :

  • Sustained hypotension for at least 30min( SBP 90mmHg)
  • Low cardiac index( <2.2 l/min/m2)
  • Elevated capillary wedge pressure( >15mmHg)

What Causes Cariogenic Shock

  • Valvular Heart Disease
  • Myocardial Infarction (Right or Left)
  • Pericardial Tamponade
    Myocarditis.
  • Hypertensive Obstructive Cardiomyopathy.
  • End stage cardiomyopathy.
  • Myocardial contusion.

Signs and Symptoms Of Cariogenic Shock

  • BP less than 90mmHg systolic Weak or undetectable pulse
  • Cold extremities
  • Peripheral cyanosis
  • Poor urine output
  • Pulmonary signs (Crepitations, Dyspnoea)
  • Raised JVP

Investigations

  • FBC
  • Serum urea, creatinine and electrolytes
  • Cardiac Enzymes (LDH, Troponin, Creatinine Kinase)
    CXR
  • ECG
    Echocardiography

Management

Non-Pharmaceutical

  • Oxygen to keep saturation >90%
  • Large bore IV cannula
  • IV fluid bolus (if predominant right heart failure).
  • Urinary Catheter

Pharmaceutical

  • Diuretics if predominant left heart failure and pulmonary
    congestion (avoid otherwise): Frusemide eg 40mg IV stat
    and monitor response.
  • Management of underlying cause
    →Ischaemia: Aspirin 100mg po stat, Morphine 210mg IV/IM for pain,
    Glyceryl Trinitrite (if BP permits, contraindicated in hypotension), Thrombilysis
    →For Pericardial Tamponade: pericardiocentesis

Recommendation

Refer to ICU or a tertiary centre if the patients with cardiogenic shock are not responding to above measures.

College Of Nursing Sciences, Amichi, Anambra State Begins Sales Of 2024/2025 Admission Forms

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ND/HND Nursing Programme for 2024/2025 academic session.

Admission Requirements

  • Evidence of choice of Institution or Evidence of change of Institution.
  • UTME Result
  • O’Level Results
  • Two (2) recent passport sized photographs, preferably colored white background.
  • Evidence of birth certificate from National Population Commission, or Age Declaration.

Post UTME Documentation

This is to inform all the prospective candidates for admission into College of Nursing, Amichi, for National Diploma in Nursing Programme that the documentation for Post UTME screening commences as follows:

Date For Documentation Exercise

6th of June to 31st of July, 2024

Venue

Admission Office, College of Nursing, Amichi.

Time

9 am to 3 pm on all working days (Except Mondays Sit-At-Home)

Note:

College of Nursing Sciences, Amichi does not have any WhatsApp group created by the School management or staff of ND NURSING admission.

The process of documentation in this College is not online.

It doesn’t involve any form of online payment from our website.

Malaria Consortium Recruitment For Project Officers.

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Malaria Consortium Nigeria is committed to tackling the large number of malaria cases and deaths in the country. Working in partnership with the Ministry of Health and other partners, we lead and support three major malaria control initiatives in the country: Support to the National Malaria Control Programme (SuNMaP); NetWorks and MAPS. Our areas of focus include: Technical support for malaria control Capacity building, harmonisation and training of health workers Heath systems strengthening Behaviour Change Communications and community outreach activities Operational research, policy and advocacy

  • Job Type: Full Time
  • Qualification: BA/BSc/HND
  • Experience: 5 years
  • Location: Kaduna
  • Job Field: NGO/Non-Profit  , Project Management 

Job purpose

The job purpose is to work with State Programme Manager (SPM) to effectively manage project activities and resources. top provide leadership and stewardship to the project team and maintain collaborative links with the project’s key stakeholders at the LGA level.

Scope of work

The project officer will support the SPM in the implementation of the MDA-AZM project across the state. S/he will work with LGA Field Assistants and will be responsible for liaising with the focal persons at the Local Government Level. 

Key working relationships

The PO would be line managed by the SPM and would work with the LGA Field Assistants in-charge of the assigned LGAs (presumably within a specific senatorial zone of a state). S/he would also maintain relationships with the country office departments, including Finance and Logistics. Key external relationships would be with staff at the LGA and State Malaria Elimination Programme (SMEP), LGA health staff and leading community members and gatekeepers. S/he would lead micro-planning, training and coordination, through drug administration and supportive supervision, to reporting of activities at the LGA level. S/he would maintain close communication with stakeholders and influential persons in the assigned LGAs through the agreed frameworks.

Key accountabilities

Programme Management (70%)

Support the SPM and the state management team to lead activities for smooth programme management in the assigned LGAs in the following areas:

  • Liaise and work with the  SMC project team in the assigned LGAs;
  • Be conversant with and guided by Malaria Consortium, policies, guidelines and the SMC Handbook towards the delivery of MDA-AZM in assigned LGAs;
  • Planning (microplanning, selection of implementers at the local levels, training, database finalization, last mile distribution, MDA-AZM and reverse logistics);
  • Engagement of stakeholders including government, communities and beneficiaries;
  • Implementation (MDA-AZM) including QA and innovations, including the use of technology;
  • General management including security, HR including line management, risk management, work planning and budgeting, VFM, optimization of grant, etc.;
  • Risk Free operations including ensuring that all staff comply with MC values and start-to-finish (SFG) policies; and
  • Coordination with other levels of government and internally, all MC functions.

Technical  (20%)

  • Support M&E activities, including reporting of MDA-AZM and lot quality assurance sampling (LQAS); and
  • Support programme review including end of cycle (EoC) reviews, end of round (EoR) reviews and EoR coverage survey.

Representations & Knowledge Management (10%)

  • Lesson identification and use including adaptive management;
  • Harmonization with other partners; and
  • Representation especially at the LGA levels.

Person specification

Qualifications and experience:

Essential          

  • Training in Nursing or Public Health;
  • Five years’ experience of working in the Public Health sector;
  • Experience in programme management at the LGA/state level;
  • Excellent project planning, management and monitoring & evaluation skills.
  • Experience managing project budgets;
  • Experience in using digital data collection tools in SMC campaigns and other health programmes; 
  • Some practical experience in Health Information and Disease Surveillance Systems, interoperability, and international standards; open Global Health Information System software and open data sources, such as, but not limited to, DHIS2, ODK, KoboCollect;
  • Experience working at the LGA and community levels;
  • Experience working on campaign style interventions (delivery of integrated interventions or social mobilization and SMC would be an added advantage).

Work-based skills and competencies:

Essential

  • Good understanding of the Nigeria health system;
  • Understanding of communication for behaviour change and social mobilisation;
  • Team player and demonstrated ability to work within a team as well as individually;
  • Ability to travel to LGAs outside of state capital at least 80% of the time;
  • Ability to perform under pressure;
  • Excellent communication skills in English and the dominant local language in assigned state;
  • Evidence of being resident in state of assignment.

Click here to apply

Cross River State College Of Nursing, Ogoja Begins Sale Of 2024/2025 Admission Forms

Sales of admission forms into ND/HND Nursing and other Nursing Programme is currently ongoing at the College Registry.

Eligibility

  • Prospective candidates must have sat and obtained five (5) credits pass in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, and Chemistry in not more than two (2) sittings in WAEC, GCE. SSCE, NECO, or NABTEB.
  • Candidates for ND/HND Programme must have sat for the 2024 UTME JAMB and secured at least 150 scores.

Method of Application

  • Forms are obtained from the office of the College registrar on payment of the sum of N20,000 and N10,000 for handling charges both which must be receipted for.
  • Candidates must come along with two (2) recent colored passport photographs.
  • Closing date for the purchase and submission of completed forms is 12th August, 2024
  • Post UTME test and oral interview is on the 31st August, 2024 in the college compound.
  • Time: 09:00 am.

NOTE:

No purchase of forms or any other admission process is done online.

Ebonyi State College Of Nursing, Uburu 2024/2025 Admission Forms On Sale

Admission is opened for Basic Nursing and Basic Midwifery at Ebonyi State College of Nursing, Uburu Ohaozara, Ebonyi State.

Admission Requirements

  • Five (5) credits in English Language, Mathematics, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry in not more than two (2) sittings in WAEC, NECO, or NABTEB.
  • Must be at least 16 years old by the end of July, 2024.

How To Apply

  • Interested candidates should visit the school website at www.ebsconsu.edu.ng/apply
  • Select preferred Programme (Basic Nursing or Basic Midwifery)
  • Generate Remita RRR for payment of an Application fee of N20,200 (for Nursing) or N17,200 (for Midwifery)
  • Make payment online on at any commercial bank with the generated RRR.
  • Come back to the portal and click on ‘Continue Application’ , input the paid RRR to complete your registration.
  • Print out your Photocard at the end of registration.
  • Basic Nursing form is on sale between 15th of April to 26th July, 2024.
  • Basic Midwifery form is on sale between 15th of April to 25th of October, 2024.

Entrance Exam Information

Date: Saturday, 27th July, 2024 (Nursing), Saturday, 26th October, 2024 (Midwifery)

Time: 10:00 am dot

Exam Type: Computer-Based Test (CBT).

Venue: Silicon Valley, Opp. Ministry of Trade and Investment, Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.

Further information

Call: 09122559272; 09056688789

Physiology, Mechanism And Principles Of The Third Stage Of Labour

The Mechanical Factors

The uterus reduces in size 2.5cm below the umbilicus, or 15cm above the symphysis pubis after the expulsion of the fetus. The contraction and retraction of the uterine muscles continues. The placental site is reduced to half. Since the placenta is inelastic, it does not contract, so it detaches from the shrinking uterine wall. The placenta is pushed further to the lower.

This is accumulated blood from the separated placenta. With the next contraction the placenta is pushed into the vagina and expelled.

You will know that the placenta has separated and has been expelled from the upper uterine segment into the lower segment or into the vagina when you have noted:

Elongation of the cord which does not recede on pressing at the symphysis pubis

A gush of blood.

The uterus contracts like a cricket ball.

The placenta is expelled either with maternal side exposed, known as the Mathew-Duncan method or the foetal side exposed known as the Shultz Method.

Control of Bleeding After Delivery

Steps should be taken to ensure the control of bleeding:

  • The uterine muscle’s contraction and retraction causes the placental site to reduce into half. Criss-cross fibres control bleeding by compressing the blood vessels. These fibresare also known as ‘living ligatures’
  • Clotting of blood takes place in the sinuses sealing the bleeding points a few hours later when uterine contractions are less vigorous.
  • The time interval between the delivery of the baby and delivery of the placenta is a dangerous period, in which one of the greatest complications of pregnancy and labour can occur.
  • This complication is excessive bleeding or postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). You should never leave the mother alone even for a short while during this stage.
  • The third stage of labour can be managed either passively or actively.

The Passive or Natural Method of Managing the Third Stage of Labour

The passive or natural method occurs naturally, that is without any interference. For example, in a normal delivery, if oxytoxic drugs are not used, the uterus generally remains inactive for a few minutes after the delivery of the baby, after which regular contractions then begin again.

Physiology of the third stage takes place, the placenta is expelled and bleeding is controlled.

Giving Oxytocic Drugs

Oxytocin, ergometrine or syntometrine stimulate uterine contraction.

Ergometrine 0.5mg given IM causes a uterine contraction to occur five to seven minutes after the injection. Given intravenously it acts within 45 seconds.

Syntometrine is a mixture of oxytocin and ergometrine 0.5ml given IM acts within two to three minutes.

Usually sytrometrine is given with the delivery of the anterior shoulder while ergometrine is given at the crowning of the head.

Controlled Cord Traction

The uterus must be firmly contracted before this method can be used. It is not necessary to wait for signs of placenta separation.

Place the left hand above the symphyis pubis, push the uterus upwards and backwards with the right hand and pull the cord downwards and outwards.

Apply traction steadily without jerking When the placenta is visible at the vulva, direct the cord upwards.

The placenta will follow the curve of the birth canal. Receive it with both hands and rotate the placenta. This will twist the membranes. You can then deliver the membranes with up side movements, which enable them to be drawn out without breaking.

Maternal Effort

This method is not commonly used. When the placenta has separated and descended, the palm is placed downwards on the mother’s abdomen to provide a backup that the mother can push against.

During a contraction, the mother should be asked to push down. The placenta will be pushed out of the vagina. This method is useful in the event of a macerated birth.

Do not apply downward fundal pressure while doing cord traction as this can lead to inversion of the uterus.

The other method that can be used to deliver the placenta is the fundal pressure method.

Fundal Pressure

This method should be used in case of a macerated or pre-term baby as the strength of the cord is reduced. You should wait for the following signs of placental separation:

The fundus feels hard like a cricket ball.

There is a gush of blood due to placenta separation.

The cord lengthens and doesn’t recede with pressure on the symphysis pubis.

Procedure

  • Make sure the bladder is empty.
  • Instruct the mother to breathe through an open mouth slowly and quietly.
  • When there is a contraction, grasp the uterus with your left hand fingers behind the uterus.
  • Thumb in the anterior surface. Apply pressure to the pelvic inlet in downward and backward direction.
  • Receive the placenta with both hands. 
  • If the membranes do not slip out, turn the placenta around and deliver the membranes slowly with an upward movement.
  • Rub the uterus and expel the clots. Once the placenta is out, you will need to examine the birth canal.
  • Explain to the mother that you need to check if she has any tears, warn her it will be a bit painful but the worst part has passed, you will be very gentle and quick and that she needs to cooperate
  • Change the gloves, roll gauze over pointing and middle fingers of the right hand
  • Insert middle fingers of left hand facing upwards pushing the upper vaginal wall
  • With the right hand press down the lower vaginal wall exposing the cervix.
  • Check for any tears with the two fingers of your right hand, mop both sides of the vaginal wall, finish with the fourchette
  • Reassure the mother in case there is any tear for suturing
  • Cover the perineum with the folded pad into a half
  • Wipe the buttocks from the fourchette towards the rectum cover the perineum completely.
  • Collect any blood loss from the bed
  • Change the bed linen with the help of an assistant
  • In case of episiotomy or a tear, scrub your hands while your assistant is setting a sterile suturing pack and repair the tear.
  • Ask the mother to lie on her back with her legs crossed on each other
  • Ask the assistant to hand over the baby to the mother.
  • Leave the mother to rest while you go to examine the placenta.

The Fourth Stage of Labour

The fourth stage starts after the delivery of the placenta and lasts for one hour. The nurse or midwife should observe the mother for blood loss, monitor vital signs, reassure her and let the mother hold the baby.

The nurse should also record notes in the patients file, fill in the baby notification form and after the hour is over escort the mother to the maternity unit.

Examination of the Baby

A thorough physical examination is done one hour after birth with the aim of assessing maturity and excluding obvious congenital abnormalities and injuries at birth.

In order to carry out this examination, you need to have with you the following equipment in a tray:

  • Tape measure
  • Second hand watch
  • Gloves
  • Weighing scale
  • Clinical thermometer
  • Lubricant
  • Swabs
  • Stethoscope

Vital signs – heart rate (120-160/min), respiration (20-60 average 44/min), and temperature (36-37 degrees centigrade).

Head – Check the shape to see if there is excessive moulding, caput succedaneum or depressed fractures to exclude head injury, microcephalus or hydrocephalus. Take head circumference (Approximately 33-37 cm).

Ears – Check position. If they are low set, this may indicate Down’s syndrome or Mongolism. Check for any missing lobes or cartilage.

Eyes – Check for presence of eyeball injuries, discharge or jaundice.

Mouth – Check for harelip, cleft palate, tongue-tie or false teeth, septic spots, thrush, cysts.

Nostrils – Check for patency with no polyps or flaring.

Neck – Check for congenital goitre or enlarged glands.

Upper limbs – Check for equality, free movement, fractures, webbed fingers, extra digits and any bony tissues. Extra digits can be ligated with silk and will fall off (with the parents permission). Check for Erb’s palsy.

Chest – Check for continuity of sternum and the shape of rib-cage, respiratory rate, enlarged breast or absence of breast tissue.

Abdomen – Should be intact and firm, check for umbilical hernia and exomphalus(protrusion of abdominal organs through a defect in the anterior wall). Abdominal distension is present in hydrops foetalis. Check for blood oozing from the cord and clamp again if necessary (cord shrivels within 24 hours, falls off 6-10 days).

External genitalia – Confirm the sex of the baby to rule out pseudohaemophrodism or intersexes. In males check for undescendedtestes, hypo/hyperspadias and phimosis. In females, check for bleeding from urethral and vaginal orifice. Vaginal bleeding may be due to excessive hormones from the mother.

Neurological Assessment

This entails the checking of reflexes, which deal with the function of the baby’s nervous system as well as physical and behavioral assessments. At the beginning of the examination, observe the baby’s movements.

These movements involve all extremities and should be random and symmetrical but never stereotyped. Sometimes jitteriness or tremors will be noted. The first time you notice these movements they may look like fits. To determine the difference between the two, hold the affected limb. If it is the former the tremors should stop.

Moro Reflex

Support the baby’s head and body in supine position about a centimeter from the cot. Allow the head to drop back. Look at the baby’s response. The baby throws out his arms extending the elbows and fingers with embracing movements of the arms. What is the significance of the Moro reflex?

The Moro reflex is symmetrical in a normal baby at birth and disappears after three months.

It is incomplete in the pre-term baby and absent in the baby with inter cranial drainage. If brain damage is not severe it returns after three to four days. If it disappears some hours after birth, you should then suspect increasing cerebral oedema or slow intra cranial haemorrhage.

Tonic Neck Reflex

A fencing position is assumed, that is, the baby lies on the back, head rotated to one side with one arm and leg partially or completely extended. The opposite arm and leg are flexed. This is a manifestation of the immaturity of the newborn’s nervous system.

Rooting Reflex

To test for the rooting reflex, gently touch the corner of the baby’s mouth with clean fingers.

The baby will open his mouth turning towards the stimulus in anticipation of the mother’s nipple. To check for sucking reflex place a clean finger in the baby’s mouth noting the sucking strength. The sucking reflex is poor in pre-term babies.

Stepping Reflex

The stepping or dancing reflex is present at birth but disappears soon after. Once this reflex diminishes, the infant does not attempt a stepping motion until he/she starts to walk. Hold the infant up, with the feet touching a surface. The infant will attempt to make some steps or pressing movements.

Grasp Reflex

It is amusing to learn that a newborn baby can grasp. At birth, the grasping reflex of both hands and feet is present. The infant will grasp any object you place in their hand, and then let it go.

They are able to hold on to a finger so securely, that you can lift them to a standing position. Stroking the soles of the feet causes the toes to turn downwards trying to grasp. By applying traction to the baby’s wrists raise them to a sitting position. A full term infant will offer a pre-term does not resist the pull.

Protective Reflex

Other reflexes include protective reflexes such

as:

  • The blinking reflex, which protects the eyes from bright light.
  • Sneezing and coughing reflexes used to infant’s throat.
  • The yawn reflex, which draws additional oxygen.
  • Cry reflex, which helps to withdraw from painful stimuli.
  • Once this examination is completed, the baby can be placed on the cot for transfer to the nursery or given to the mother.
  • After completing the delivery of the baby, you should transfer the mother to the postnatal ward where she will rest.

Changes that take place in a woman who has just delivered during puerperium

The puerperium period covers six to eight weeks following delivery or abortion and is characterized by:

  • General organs return to their pregravida state
  • Initiation of lactation..
  • Recuperation.

The Psychology of the Mother During Puerperium

During the puerperium the mother is subjected to emotional turmoil and you must be supportive and observant.

She should be allowed to cuddle her baby and express her love as she wishes. This maternal instinct is at times delayed.

The midwife should be kind, patient, and compassionate towards the mother and give her the necessary education concerning her and the baby.

Each mother should be taken as an individual based on her maternal experience, educational background, maturity and parity.

Mothers should be given all the information necessary to ensure they know how to care for their babies.

Rooming is the term given when a hospital plans for the mother to stay with the baby for most of the 24 hours in a day.

It is highly recommended because it has been seen to have great psychological advantages for both mother and baby.

Bonding commences immediately and demand breast-feeding can be successfully practiced.

Most baby-friendly hospitals in this country encourage rooming in.

Postpartum Tears or Fourth Day Blues

This condition is characterized by mild depression and mood swings due to a Temporary endocrine hormonal imbalance following childbirth.

It occurs in fifty percent of post-natal mothers on around the fourth day.

A midwife should try to prevent the ‘blues’ by educating the mother during the pre-natal period on how to take care of herself and the baby to build up her confidence.

National Association Of Nigeria Nurses And Midwives Suspends Strike.

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Suspension Of Indefinite Strike

NANNM suspends indefinite strike, and asked her workers to go back to work.

This announcement was made on 4th June, 2024. Read the attached circular!

College Of Nursing Science Calabar Begins 2024/2025 Sales Of Admission Forms

Admission is opened for 2024/2025 academic session for ND Nursing and Basic Midwifery.

Notice is hereby given to prospective candidates and the general public that forms for Post UTME Screening for the National Diploma (ND) and Basic Programmes of the College of Nursing Sciences, Calabar is now available at the College Registry.

Admission Procedure

  • Payment of the sum of Twenty-five Thousand (N25,000) only into the CRS School of Nursing Account domiciled in First Bank with the Account No. 2031807641.
  • Evidence of payment tendered at the College Bursary and the payment of N10,000 cash as handling charges.
  • Receipts from Bursary presented at Registry Department for Form(s).

Admission Requirements

  • Applicants must possess five (5) credits in English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Biology, and Chemistry obtained in either WAEC, NECO or NABTEB in not more than two (2) sittings.
  • Should possess 2024 JAMB results with 150 score and above reflecting the College of Nursing Sciences , Calabar or any other institution thereof.
  • Credentials to include First School Leaving Certificate, Birth Certificate/Age Declaration, LGA of Origin, and Two (2) passport sized photographs.

Deadline

Closing date for the sales of forms is 1st August, 2024.

Screening Venue

College Premises, Opposite the Court, Moore Road, Calabar.

Screening Date

The screening date is on Tuesday 20th to Thursday 23rd August, 2024.

Enquiries

Call: 08063987582; 07082818932 (WhatsApp only)

HIV Care & Support Officer at Women and Children Health Empowerment Foundation (WACHEF)

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The Women and Children Health Empowerment Foundation (WACHEF), is a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) registered to practice in Nigeria. The NGO works in partnership with public, private and other non-government organizations to promote accountability, good governance and contribute in achieving equitable, sustainable and quality healthcareand social services delivery among the poor and vulnerable population, especially women and childrenin Nigeria. WACHEF was registered with Taraba State Government in 2001 and with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) of Nigeria in August 2005 with registration number CAC/IT/No 19194.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: HIV Care & Support Officer

Location: Jalingo, Taraba
Employment Type: Contract

Job Description

  • The purpose of this position is to provide technical guidance to the organization in the implementation of technical program activities for community-based HIV Care and Support in the Program.
  • Under the supervision/direction of the program Manager, s/he will collaborate closely with the team to roll out and implement an integrated and holistic community-based response to HIV / AIDS towards scaling up access to HIV prevention and care services for vulnerable children and their caregivers.

General Function

  • The Prevention, Care & Support specialist will be responsible for working closely with the ICHSSA4 HIV prevention care & Support Programme Management specialist as well other ICHSSA 4 technical team to achieve the strategic objectives of the program
  • Focusing primarily on HIV prevention, Care & Support but also supporting cross-cutting themes and integration efforts across the project with other areas of OVC programming including Household Economic Strengthening, gender, and Nutrition.

Major Responsibilities

  • S/he will provide technical support primarily in the area of Community based HIV Care & Support for project beneficiaries affected by HIV.
  • S/he will be responsible for strengthening the linkages between the community-based care activities and health facilities providing HIV treatment towards ensuring a continuum of care.
  • S/he will also support the strengthening of the capacity of implementing CSOs in the area of HIV prevention awareness creation, community mobilization for HIV counselling and testing, PMTCT and Early Infant Diagnosis (EID), improving referral and counter-referral systems between communities and facilities. In addition,
  • s/he will support the implementation of evidence-based interventions aimed at addressing HIV risk behaviors, HIV transmission, and gender-based violence

Specific Responsibilities:

  • Link all identified HIV positive beneficiaries to HIV treatment care and support service
  • Administer quarterly HIV care and support, Nutrition and PHDP checklist as applicable to ICHSSA 4 beneficiaries and refer appropriately.
  • Development of “care plan” for vulnerable household.
  • Completion of referral forms in line with ART and other services in accordance with identified/required services by the beneficiary
  • Provide support to community case workers and other stakeholders.
  • Refer and provide escort of ICHSSA4 beneficiaries to HIV service points for uptake of HIV related services
  • Mobilize ICHSSA 4 beneficiaries for community outreaches for HTC and conduct follow up visits to HIV positive beneficiaries for continuous adherence support.
  • Participate in monthly LGA level referral coordination meetings.
  • Participate in the development of HIV service delivery directory.
  • Facilitate at Community case workers HIV prevention Care and Support stepdown trainings.
  • Document all HIV prevention care and support activities and report on monthly, quarterly and annually and at other times as may be required by the ICHSSA 4 project

Supervision and Mentoring:

  • Support Community Case Workers to fill referral forms appropriately
  • Provide regular supportive supervision to the Community Case Workers Care and Support staff to ensure adherence to HIV treatment care and support for HIV positive beneficiaries.

Qualifications and Skills

  • B.Sc / BA in a relevant Health Degree with minimum of 2 years professional experience with community-level HIV prevention, Care & Support programs
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with implementing partners, Community Based Organizations, Community case workers
  • Experience in supporting Community based HIV Testing and Counselling programs
  • Good knowledge of Government of Nigeria HIV Care and Treatment guidelines (Pediatric & Adult)
  • Familiarity with OVC programming and principles.
  • Excellent English oral and written communication skills required.
  • Good c computer skills; skilled in MS Office including Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

Application Closing Date
15th June, 2024.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should send their CV and application letter as a single attachment in MS word or PDF to: recruitmentwachef.2022@gmail.com using the Job Title as the subject of the mail.

Note

  • Applications not sent in the required format will not be considered.
  • Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for assessment and interview.
  • Women and strongly advised to apply.