Public Health Nursing (PHN)
COUNSELLING OF A MOTHER AT CHILD WELFARE CLINIC (CWC)
This is a dialogue between Public/Community health nurse and the mother/caregiver at CWC on obvious findings on the baby and prevailing health issues to make an informed decision.
Purpose
- Inform mother/caregiver on findings made on the baby
- Present to the mother/caregiver options available to make an informed decision
- Create an emotionally safe space and an accepting caring relationship in which the mother/caregiver can explore
- Foster cordial relationship between mother/caregiver and health workers
Indications
- Client requires a mother assessment or care.
Equipment
- Master chart for grading nutritional status
- Hand washing facilities- veronica bucket, plastic bowls, soap in a dish, hand towels
- Electronic/manual visual aids for education
- Blue and red pens, pencils, eraser and ruler
- Child health record book
- Furniture which includes chairs, tables, bulletin board
Preparation
- Review client records and history.
- Gather necessary equipment and supplies.
- Plan the visit timing and logistics.
Procedure steps
- Ensure privacy and confidentiality
- Find out about the health of the family
- Re-inspect the child’s health record book for entries made
- Educate mother/caregiver on child’s growth pattern using the child’s health record book
- Counsel mother/caregiver on:
- Diet
- Immunization
- Personal cleanliness and general care
- Family planning
- Importance of the child health record book and CWC
- Any other problems
Precautions
- Maintain infection prevention and control measures throughout.
- Respect client privacy and confidentiality.
- Ensure cultural sensitivity and dignity.
- Refer or escalate when complications arise.
Aftercare
- Evaluate client response to interventions.
- Schedule follow-up as needed.
- Ensure client understands care plan.
Nursing considerations
- Adapt care to client's unique circumstances.
- Involve family members as appropriate.
- Consider social determinants of health.
Patient education
- Provide condition-specific health education.
- Teach self-care strategies where applicable.
- Reinforce importance of follow-up.
Documentation
- Record all assessments and findings.
- Document interventions provided.
- Note client education given.
- Report any referrals made.
References and further reading
Educational resource only. Follow current Nursing and Midwifery Council guidance, local institutional protocols, scope of practice, and clinical supervision.
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