HOPE - A programme of holistic care
Sister Sandy Walters from the University of KwaZulu-Natal's Campus Health Clinic in Pietermaritzburg told HIVAN team members, Tanja Arntz and Debbie Heustice, that the Clinic provides a message of hope for students and staff who are infected with HIV/AIDS. "We aim to ensure that students and staff realise that a positive HIV test does not mean an immediate death sentence, and that with an optimistic attitude, correct diet and a suitable treatment package, they can lead a productive, full and happy life".
The Campus Health Clinic offers free rapid-result HIV testing in conjunction with pre- and post-test counselling, and has close links with the Student Counselling Centre on the campus to assist with long-term counselling. Of particular interest is Sister Walter's inspirational follow-up approach of "HOPE" - standing for Help, Ongoing Support, Proactive/Positive and Empathy.
In terms of help, people living with HIV are referred to the Communicable Disease Clinic at both Grey's and Edendale Hospitals for CD4-count monitoring. The Campus Health Clinic staff also provide advice and information on nutrition and diet for building up the body's immune system. "We are offering our patients a new product called "Africa's Solution", says Sister Walters.
Formulated by a pathologist from the University of the Free State, Dr Chris Barnard, this multi-vitamin immune-booster helps to maintain the immune systems of those exposed to high levels of stress, whether physical, emotional or mental. "What makes this product so valuable is that it is affordable and natural. One bottle is sufficient for a month's treatment and costs R25-00", says Sister Walters. Tuberculosis and HIV patients receive this product from the Clinic free of charge. Other forms of help offered by the Clinic are referrals to the Student Counselling Centre for ongoing confidential, professional counselling.
The "O" in HOPE denotes the concept of ongoing support. HIV-positive patients are scheduled for once-monthly appointments, during which they are weighed and given a month's supply of vitamins. "These visits assist in boosting the morale of our patients", says Sister Walters. The Clinic keeps a stock of TB drugs as well as anti-bacterial drugs, but patients need to be referred by a doctor to have this medication administered to them.
The "P" in HOPE stands for being proactive and positive. Patients are encouraged to be take charge of their health, and to visit the Clinic for a check-up as soon as they notice changes in their bodies.
Finally, the "E" in HOPE describes the attitude that the Clinic staff strive to maintain towards their clients - empathy, as opposed to "sympathy". Clinic and counselling staff are trained to be non-judgemental and to truly feel for their patients.
TOP
|
