Newsletter

Healthcare Project in Korail Slum

Good Heal Trust is delighted and grateful to have completed a full year of its outreach program this month! Having gone through different hurdles and challenges, the team is proud of the achievements thus far. We eagerly look forward to completing many more years in addition to giving service to those who need it and are unable to acquire it.

This month service was given to a total of 667 patients, including regular clinic patients, advance  consultancy  services, follow-ups, referral cases and GHT Health camp patients. Nurses provided Over the counter (OTC) medicine and advice were given to 559 patients. GHT’s telemedicine services, consultancy through Skype was provided to 8 patients. The two doctors who provided their services through Skype were Dr. Aynul Kabir (from the Medicine Department) and Dr. Farhana Khatun (from the Gynecology Department).

 As for referrals, the team arranged for a total of 9 patients to visit Gulshan Seba House for Advanced Consultancy. Among them 5 patients took service from Dr.Farhana Khatoon (Gynecology Department), 3 from Dr. Apurba Kumar Saha (General Medicine department), and 1 from Dr. Aynul Kabir (General Medicine Dept.) In addition to this, 50 patients were referred to different hospitals including BSMMU, Sorwardi Hospital, Dhaka Medical College Hospital (BMCH), Gulshan Seba House, Islamiya Eye Hospital, Society for Assistance to Hearing Impaired Children (SAHIC), BRAC and the GHT Camp.

Similar to previous sessions, Good Heal Trust presented health awareness sessions twice a week on general health advice to patients of the Korail Slum. Advice pertaining to personal hygiene, family planning, common diseases amongst women, common diseases present in households and many other issues were discussed. Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) were held with 840 people within the slum. Once again, the number for the FDGs continues to go up every month as the team looks to serve more and more of those who need it the most.

There were two camps held this month, one on the 11th of May and the second on the 28th of May. At the camp on the 11th, 41 patients were given service, 39 of whom were newly registered and 2 were previously registered. The two doctors who provided service at this camp were Dr.Farhana Khatoon [MBBS, FCPS Consultant- Gynecology) and Dr. Apurba Kumar Saha [Medical Officer, MBBS,PGT (Medicine),CCD (BIRDEM)]. On the 28th,  50 patients were given service, 44 were newly registered and 6 were from the previously registered. At this camp, Dr. Aynul Kabir [MBBS,CCD-BIRDEM Medicine) and Dr.Farhana Rahat[MBBS,FCPS (Pediatric)] provided their services.

In addition to the above, special healthcare screening was given for the following: Breast -oral -cervical cancer screening, blood sugar monitoring, health education and diet counseling, pregnancy tests were given for both adults and adolescents and special heath education sessions were held at the slum clinics.

We look forward to carry on with our programs. We would like for more people to join us in our works- as there are much too many people who need to be served and very few who are willing to serve. Irrelevant of the obstacles and hindrances, we are optimistic about the year ahead and pray that it will be one filled with many more lives helped, cared for and saved.

Nurses’ Skill Enhancement Program

The Nurses Skill Enhancement Program (NSEP) continues to be in session at both Birdem and National Heart Foundation (NHF). Nurses continue to learn about the topics which relate to their profession in addition to getting sessions on the English Language, Computers and Grooming.

Nursing Classes: Nursing sessions continue to be the core of the program. The nurses at Birdem are taught modules related to Diabetes and the healthcare which Birdem gives whereas National Heart Foundation nurses are taught modules pertaining to cardiology and services which are provided by their hospital.

The topics covered at Birdem include:

a)      Anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system: Upper respiratory and lower respiratory tract. Controlling breathing and Mechanism of breathing.

b)      Diagnostic test: Bronchoscope, thoracentesis, chest physiotherapy. Breathing sounds, its types and abnormalities within it.

c)      Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: its definition, recommendations, indications, procedures taken for adults, children and infants and complications involved with CPR.

d)      Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases: obstructive and restrictive lung disease, emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

e)      Respiratory disorders: asthma, hypoxemia, pneumo-thorax, and atelectasis: their causes and medical and nursing management. Pleural effusion, pulmonary embolism, and oxygen therapy. TB, respiratory failure and lung cancer.

f)       Anatomy and physiology of the Endocrine System. Hormones secreted by the glands and introduction class on D.M and its classification

Activities to note:

– Role Play Session was held on ‘therapeutic communication’ in order to help the nurses improve their communication in hospital scenarios.

– Pre-and post assessment slip test/quizzes were conducted during the classes.

–  Practice nursing test was conducted on 05-May- 2014.

– A CPR demonstration was conducted on 31-May-2014

The topics covered at NHF include:

a)      Congestive Heart failure: its definition, etiology and types i.e., right and left ventricular failure, clinical manifestations, medical, surgical and nursing interventions. In addition to cardiac glycosides action, side effects, contraindication and its anti-dote.

b)     Aortic Dissection: its definition, etiology, pathophysiology, classification, complications, clinical manifestations, collaborative intervention and nursing care.

c)      Varicose Veins and deep vein thrombosis: Dysarrythmias: Premature atrial Contraction, premature ventricular contraction, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation and heart blocks and its causes.

d)     Heart-lung machine Pump: its definition, indications and its mechanical structures and functions.

e)      Cardio pulmonary resuscitation: its definition, recommendations, indications, procedures for adults, children and infants, complications of CPR.

Activities to note:

-Pre-and post assessment slip test/quizes were conducted during the classes.

–  Practice nursing test conducted on 22-May-2014.

– A CPR demonstration was conducted on 29-May-2014

English Classes: The English sessions keep group works and student centered learning as a top priority. The nurses are encouraged to speak and overcome their weaknesses in spoken English through group presentations. Pair/group works are done in each class based on the topic being taught.

The topics covered in English Classes at Birdem and NHF this month include:

a)      The definitions and usage of adjectives and adverbs. Nurses were also taught how to write brief descriptions using adjectives and adverbs.

b)      Article on fitness: different types of fitness and the need for fit nurses (and people in general). Nurses were suggested different physical activities to stay fit.

c)      The difference between ‘True or False’ and ‘Fact or Opinion’. Nurses were taught how to differentiate each of these.

d)      The Zoo & Usage of ‘too many,’ ‘too much’ and ‘a lot of’ and the difference between ‘small’ and ‘little.’ The nurses looked through a wide range of zoo animals and their names in English in addition to the above grammar works.

e)      History & Globalization. Both these terms were presented and discussed. Nurses were shown videos on how globalization is affecting every corner of the Earth. Its positives and negatives were looked at in addition to why history is essential and a part of us as individuals.

Computer Classes: Last month we had mentioned how we are aiming to see the nurses use computers to write assignments. This month, for their computer lesson, the nurses were assigned assignments in Nursing and English. Some of them were able to do the assignments while others are still getting there.

Grooming Classes: Grooming is an essential part of any profession; it is even more so for the Nursing Profession. This is because healthcare professionals must maintain many hygienic, ethical and moral values/matters as they are dealing with peoples’ lives.

The topics covered for grooming at Birdem and NHF include:

a)     Telephone techniques and etiquettes

b)    A Grooming Test was conducted to assess how much the students have taken in so far

If interested in working with us or if you simply want to find out more information about what we endeavor to bring to the over-all healthcare system, current/future projects and much more, please visit us at: www.goodhealtrust.org

Good Heal Trust is very pleased to say that its Comprehensive Health Care Service project has achieved the greatest success yet in its patient care service and in field activity. The team has crossed the target level of patients, reaching higher than expected! Service was given to a total of 708 patients. 112 of these patients were given follow up care in order to ensure they continue getting the care they need. Two health camps were held, one on the 9th and another on the 27th of April ,2014.  At the camps, a total of 92 patients were given medical care. Similar to previous months, the target diseases were: common diseases and gynecology related problems. Dr.Apurba Kumar Saha and Dr. Aynul Kabir (from the Medicine Department), Dr. Farhana Khatun (from the Gynecology Department) and Dr. Farhana Rahat (from the Pediatric Department) consulted the various patients.

Similar to previous sessions, Good Heal Trust presented health awareness sessions twice a week on general health advice to patients of the Korail Slum. Advice pertaining to personal hygiene, family planning, common diseases amongst women, common diseases present in households and many other issues were discussed. Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) were held with 840 people within the slum. Once again, the number for the FDGs continues to go up every month as the team looks to serve more and more of those who need it the most.

Skype consultancy was given to 16 patients. Dr. Aynul Kabir of BIRDEM (medicine) gave service to 8 patients and Dr. Apurbo Kumer Saha also of BIRDEM (medicine) gave service to 8 patients using the GHT Telemedicine Service. This was a great honour for GHT.

Good Heal Trust was also successful in referring a total of 127 patients to different hospitals across Dhaka, including Society for Assistance to Hearing Impaired Children (SAHIC), Islamiya Eye Hospital, Mohakhali TB Hospital, GHT Health Camp, Gulshan Seba Hospital, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka Shishu Hospital and BRAC.

Patients who needed tests were sent to Gulshan Seba House for different health tests, including the Ultrasound Sonography Test (USG), Thyroid Test, X-rays, Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Urine Culture & Sensitivity (C/S) tests.

In the camps, a total of 52 patients registered as registered patients. 2 of them had already registered from before. Good Heal Trust provided a health card to each person. A mere Tk50 was charged as the card registration fee. Each card holder patient was also given a registration number. By showing this health card, a slum dweller can enjoy all the services offered by Good Heal Trust through its clinic. If a registered member needs any kind of pathological or radiology test, Good Heal Trust will provide the patient a 25 % discount. In addition, with the health card the patient receives a 50% discount on doctor visits.

By next month, the trust looks forward to completing one year since the starting of the health care service. The true is excited and hopeful regarding the success of its present and future endeavours.

Nurses’ Skill Enhancement Program

The Nurses Skill Enhancement Program (NSEP) continues to be in session at both Birdem and National Heart Foundation (NHF). Nurses continue to learn about the topics which relate to their profession in addition to getting sessions on the English Language, Computers and Grooming.

Nursing Classes: Nursing sessions continue to be the core of the program. The nurses at Birdem are taught modules related to Diabetes and the healthcare which Birdem gives whereas National Heart Foundation nurses are taught modules pertaining to cardiology and services which are provided by their hospital.

The topics covered at Birdem during April include:

a)       Venous diseases: Venous Thrombus, Deep Vein Thrombosis. Varicose Veins, the difference between arterial and venous leg ulcers.

b)      Angina pectoris: stable angina, unstable angina, variant angina (its types)

c)      Cardiac drugs: Antiarrythmia drugs, anti-angina drugs’ action, its side effects, contraindications and nursing interventions.

d)      Congestive Heart failure: its definition and the different types (i.e., right ventricular failure, left ventricular failure). Cardiac glycosides’ action, side effects, contraindications and its antidote.

e)      Inflammatory and structural heart disorders: pericarditis, endocarditis, rheumatic heart diseases, valvular disorders: regurgitation, stenosis and prolapsed.

The topics covered at NHF include:

a)      Specimen collection and the Nursing measures necessary for collection. Urine specimen: urine for microscope, urine for culture, 24 hours urine, culture and sensitivity test. Stool: for the microscope, occult blood, parasites, culture and sensitivity test. Sputum: collection, etc.

b)      Cardiac Diagnostic test: Cardiac enzymes, CBP, stress test cardiac catherization, hemodynamic measurements and specific nursing interventions.

c)      ECG interpretation: Conducting system of the heart, electrical conduction of the heart (i.e. Formation of P wave, QRS complex, T and U wave, J junction, time interval for each wave and calculation of Heart rate from ECG).

d)       Vascular diseases: Peripheral Arterial Diseases: Reynaud’s Disease, Thromboangiitis Obliterans, Acute Arterial Ischemic Disorders.

e)      Aortic Aneurysms and Aortic Dissection: its definition, etiology, pathophysiology, classification, complications, clinical manifestation, collaborative intervention and nursing care.

f)       Angina Pectoris: stable angina, unstable angina, and the different types of variant angina.

g)      Anti-angina drugs: Nitroglycerine, Beta Blockers, Calcium channel blockers: drug action, side effects, contraindications, complications and nursing interventions.

h)      Myocardial Infarction: Myocardial Ischemia, Myocardial Injury, Myocardial infarction Risk factors

English Classes: The English sessions keep group works and student centered learning as a top priority. The nurses are encouraged to speak and overcome their weaknesses in spoken English through group presentations. Pair/group works are done in each class based on the topic being taught.

The topics covered in the English Classes at Birdem and NHF this month include:

a)      Seasons- national and international seasons were discussed and elaborated on. The terms ‘rotation’ and ‘revolution’ were given special attention in order to explain the cause of the seasonal changes. For grammar, the usage of the verb ‘to be’ was practiced by the nurses.

b)      The definitions and usage of adjectives and adverbs. Nurses were also taught how to write brief descriptions using adjectives and adverbs.

c)      Article on fitness: different types of fitness and the need for fit nurses (and people in general). Nurses were suggested different physical activities to stay fit.

d)      The difference between fact and fiction/Fact or Opinion.

Computer Classes: Computer knowledge is absolutely essential in today’s fast paced, tech-savvy world.  Therefore, the trust continues to offer computer classes. We would like to see the nurses complete assignments using the computer.

This month, the computer topics covered at both Birdem and NHF include:

a)  Microsoft Word, the internet and its uses,    etc. 6 nurses had their email addresses opened by the computer instructor.

b)  Students were given an assignment after being divided into 4 groups. They had to submit the printed assignment.

Grooming Classes: In order to improve the overall presentation and work ethics of the nurses, GHT provides at least one grooming class per month to the nurses.

The topics covered for grooming at Birdem and NHF include:

a)     Health care services in Bangladesh- the different types of health cares available and their importance.

b)    Time Management- its importance and results/ways of developing time management.

If interested in working with us or if you simply want to find out more information about what we endeavor to bring to the over-all healthcare system, current/future projects and much more, please visit us at: www.goodhealtrust.org

Healthcare Project in Korail Slum

As the trust comes closer and closer to completing one year with its outreach program at the Korail Slums, it is proud to say that a total of 613 patients were served in March, 2014! 188 of these patients were given follow up care. Follow up care is important as the trust wants to continue to ensure patients keep getting the health care they need and do not fall back on treatment due to financial contstraints. Two health camps were held, one on the 13^th of March and another on the 23^rd. A total of 68 patients were given healthcare at the camps.

Similar to previous sessions, Good Heal Trust presented health awareness sessions twice a week on general health advice to patients of the Korail Slum. Advice pertaining to personal hygiene, family planning, common diseases amongst women, common diseases present in households and many other issues were discussed. Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) were held with 780 people within the slum. Once again, the number for the FDGs continues to go up every month as the team looks to serve more and more of those who need it the most.

Skype consultancy was given to a total of 11 patients. Dr.Aynul Kabir of BIRDEM (medicine), Dr. Apurbo Kumer Saha of BIRDEM (medicine) and  Dr. Farhana Khatun of PGT (gynecology) provided their services for the Skype sessions.

Good Heal Trust was also successful in referring a total of 18 patients to different hospitals across Dhaka, including GHT Health Camp, Gulshan Seba Hospital, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka Shishu Hospital and BRAC.

Patients who needed tests were sent to Gulshan Seba House for different health tests, including the Ultrasound Sonography Test (USG), Thyroid Test, X-rays, Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Urine Culture & Sensitivity (C/S) tests.

In the camps, a total of 44 patients registered as registered patients. 3 of them had already registered from before. Good Heal Trust provided a health card to each person. A mere Tk50 was charged as the card registration fee. Each card holder patient was also given a registration number. By showing this health card, a slum dweller can enjoy all the services offered by Good Heal Trust through its clinic. If a registered member needs any kind of pathological or radiology test, Good Heal Trust will provide the patient a 25 % discount. In addition, with the health card the patient receives a 50% discount on doctor visits.

The trust hopes to serve even more patients in the upcoming months, continuing to serve those who need it the most.

Nurses’ Skill Enhancement Program

The Nurses Skill Enhancement Program (NSEP) continues to be in session at Birdem and National Heart Foundation (NHF). Nurses continue to learn about the topics which relate to their profession in addition to getting sessions on English Language, Computers and Grooming.

Nursing Classes: Nursing sessions continue to be the core of the program. The nurses at Birdem are taught modules related to Diabetes and the healthcare which Birdem gives whereas National Heart Foundation nurses are taught modules pertaining to cardiology and services which are provided by their hospital.

The topics covered at Birdem during March include:

a)      Wounds- the different types of wounds, its causes, physiology of wounds, factors affecting the healing of wounds, the basic principles regarding wound care, immediate care, ideal dressings/guidelines for carrying out a wound dressing using an aseptic technique, complications of wounds and the important of the TT shot.

b)      Cardiac diagnostic tests: what are cardiac enzymes, CBP, stress test cardiac cauterization, hemodynamic measurements and specific nursing interventions pertaining to this. Cardiac Disarrhythmias: cardiac conducting system problems and its management

c)      ECG and its interpretation.

d)      The importance of central IV infusions and blood transfusions.

e)      Myocardial Infarction: etiology and its risk factors, patho-physiology and its clinical manifestation.

f)       Vascular diseases: Peripheral Arterial Diseases: Reynaud’s Disease, Thromboangiitis Obliterans, Acute Arterial Ischemic Disorders. Aortic aneurysms and Aortic Dissections.

The topics covered at NHF include:

a)      Pre-and post operative nursing care

b)      Medical-Surgical asepsis techniques: its definition, the difference between medical and surgical asepsis and principles of the asepsis technique.

c)       Infection control and universal precautions.

d)      Blood transfusion: types of blood components, the purpose of blood transfusions, types of donors, grouping and cross matching, precautions to follow, and complications involved in blood transfusions.

e)      Alternative medicine

f)       Introduction class on the cardiology module: Anatomy and Physiology of the heart: the heart structure, its size and location, layers, conducting system of the heart, heart sounds, etc.

g)      Circulation: vascular system, pulmonary circulation, systemic circulation and coronary circulation.

English Classes: The English sessions keep group works and student centered learning as a top priority. The nurses are encouraged to speak and overcome their weaknesses in spoken English through group presentations.

The topics covered in the English Classes at Birdem this month include:

a)      English an international language. Nurses were shown the different uses of the English Language and its importance on the global platform. They were also taught different ways of asking ‘How are you?’ in English and the usage of different adjectives to describe how they are feeling.

b)      Childhood memories and its importance. Nurses went down memory line and thought back to why childhoods are precious and the memories even more so. Story writing was done in groups using vocabulary related to childhood.

The topics covered at NHF include:

a)      Why is communication important in the nursing profession? Nurses went over an article on communication and its necessity in the nursing profession. Different types of communication were discussed and nurses gave their input on how communication can be made more effectively in their profession. Nurses were also taught how to make polite requests.

b)      English session on groceries- what they are, the different aisles in supermarkets and overall grocery shopping. Nurses had to engage in a group work session on making grocery lists for an upcoming dinner based upon a set budget.

Computer Classes: Computer knowledge is absolutely essential in today’s fast paced, tech-savvy world.  Therefore, the trust continues to offer computer classes. We would like to see the nurses complete assignments using the computer.

This month, the computer topics covered at both Birdem and NHF include:

a)      Internet browsing

b)      Creating email addresses for the nurses. A few of them have created e-mail addresses; the trust hopes to have an email address for each of the nurses by the end of the program. We would like to have them e-mail assignments to the instructors by the end of the program.

Grooming Classes: Grooming is an essential part of every profession, there can be no doubt on this matter. This is even more so for those involved in the health care sector as how healthcare officials present and carry themselves has a great effect on the patients.

The topics covered for grooming at Birdem and NHF include:

a)      Conflict and its management- how to deal with the different conflicts that may arise in the working atmosphere. The attitudes and behaviours that are a must irrelevant of the conflict.

b)      Professionalism- nurse–patient communication and its vitality, managing angry patients and a review session was held on earlier sessions.

If interested in working with us or if you simply want to find out more information about what we endeavor to bring to the over-all healthcare system, current/future projects and much more, please visit us at: www.goodhealtrust.org

Healthcare Project in Korail Slum

Good Heal Trust’s outreach team continues to work hard and reach out to even more patients with the passing of time. During the month of February, the trust gave medical treatment to a total of 563 patients! This is yet again great news great news for the team. A total of 493 patients were given service at the clinic and a total of 70 patients were given service at the camps.

A total of two medical camps were held this month. One medical camp was held on the 9th. Dr. Apurba Kumar Saha from the Department of General Medicine consulted 22 patients and  Orthopedics Dr. Ahmed Suparno Bahar of BIHS consulted 11 patients. Another camp was held on the 26^th. Dr. Abdullah Al Mamun from General Medicine Department of BIHS General Hospital consulted with 22 patients and Pediatric Consultant Dr.  Farhana Rahat of BIHS consulted 15 Patients.

The diseases looked into for these camps were common communicable diseases  such  as- scabies, general weakness, allergy, constipation different body aches, vertigo, anorexia, fevers/cold, diarrhea, leucorrhoea, insomnia, anemia, tonsillitis, numbness, etc. Some non-communicable diseases looked into were hypertension, heart problems, diabetic mellitus, bronchial asthma, etc.

Similar to previous sessions, Good Heal Trust presented health awareness sessions twice a week on general health advice to patients of the Korail Slum. Advice pertaining to personal hygiene, family planning, common diseases amongst women, common diseases present in households and many other issues were discussed. Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) were held with 775 people within the slum. These sessions are especially helpful to the people living in the slum as most of them have not been educated regarding health care and its importance.

Good Heal Trust was also successful in referring a total of 75 patients to different clinics/hospitals, including: Bangladesh Institute of Health Science (BIHS), Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), Society for Assistance to Hearing Impaired Children (SAHIC), Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), The GHT Camp, Islamiya Eye Hospital and Birdem.

A few patients were referred to Gulshan Seba House for different health tests, including under Radiology: USG (ultrasound) of the whole abdomen, USG (ultrasound) of the lower abdomen, Chest X-Ray P/V view, Chest X-Ray B/V view, ECG. Pathology: Urine R/E, FB, ABF.

Through Skype sessions, Dr.Aynul Kabir gave service to 1 patient.

In the camps, a total of 33 new patients registered as Good Heal Trust‘s registered patients. Good Heal Trust provided a health card to each person. A mere Tk50 was charged as the card registration fee. Each card holder patient was also given a registration number. By showing this health card, a slum dweller can enjoy all the services offered by Good Heal Trust through its clinic. If a registered member needs any kind of pathological or radiology test, Good Heal Trust will provide the patient a 25 % discount. In addition, with the health card the patient receives a 50% discount on doctor visits.

For special health screening, the team screened 22 female patients for oral, breast  and  cervical cancer. In addition to this, there were 7 pregnancy tests done.

The trust continues to work hard, looking forward to serving the needy and continuing to make a difference in the lives of those who need it the most.

Nurses’ Skill Enhancement Program

Good Heal Trust has continued its NSEP program at Birdem and National Heart Foundation. The trust was excited and pleased to have Hong Kong BSR Mr. Marat Yu (Associate Partnership Development) visit the GHT office in order to launch a factory nursing program in Bangladesh. He was present during one of the English and Nursing lessons at Birdem hospital. We hope to hear back positive feedback in the upcoming days.

Nursing Classes: Nursing topics covered are extensive and pay close attention to both theoretical and practical sessions. The topics covered at National Heart Foundation during February include:

1) Nutrition- the factors affecting basal metabolic rate, importance of CHO, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals; the Food Guide Pyramid and nutritional nursing management. 2) Fluid and electrolyte balance: its definition, regulation of fluids in the body and the fluid requirements per kilogram of body weight at different ages. Body fluid compartments, regulation of body fluid compartments, fluid volume deficits, fluid volume excesses and its medical and nursing management. 3)  I.V therapy: types of IV fluids, selection of peripheral IV sites and peripheral intravenous sites to avoid complications of I.V fluids. Clinical manifestation of IV and its management. 4) Acid-base imbalance: homeostasis, acid–base balance, buffer system of the blood, the relation between pH and ratio of buffer components, the imbalance of respiratory and metabolic acidosis, respiratory and metabolic alkalosis, compensatory mechanism, arterial blood gas analysis, the Allen test, etc. 5) Body Mechanics: its definition, the purpose, importance and principles of body mechanics. Practical sessions were held on: Moving the patient to one side of the bed, moving a helpless patient up in bed, turning a patient to one side of the bed, transferring a helpless patient from bed to stretcher, assisting the patient to sit on the side of the bed and assisting a patient from bed to chair or onto the wheel chair. 6) Wounds: its definitions, types and causes. Physiology of wound healing, factors affecting wound healing, wound Assessment and the basic principles of wound care and barriers to wound healing. Practical sessions were held on wound care, its immediate care, ideal dressings, complications of wounds and the importance of the TT shot.

The topics covered at Birdem during February include: 1) Comfort devices and the different patient positions during physical assessment and disease conditions. 2) Nutrition: Factors affecting nutritional status, intake of food, general assessment and types of diet. 3) Nutrition- Factors affecting the basal metabolic rate, importance of CHO, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. The Food Guide Pyramid. 4) Body Mechanics: its definition, purpose, importance and principles. Impact of immobility and inactivity. 5) Anatomy and Physiology of the Heart: Anatomy of the Heart, layers of the heart, chambers of the Heart, Circulation of Blood, Coronary circulation, Conducting system of the heart, Heart sounds etc.. 6) Breast cancer: Anatomy of the breast, its definition, causes and risk factors of breast cancer, clinical manifestations, screening, staging system, surgical therapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, preventive measures, etc.

Practical sessions on moving patients were similar to the ones held at National Heart Foundation in addition to self breast assessment.

English Classes: The over-all English competency of nurses in Bangladesh is very low. This is not due only to the lackings found within the Education System of Bangladesh, but also due to not having the opportunity to speak English nor having enough exposure to the language itself. Therefore, the English classes are taken through innovative means, incorporating pair-work and group work along with individual work. Nurses not only learn from the teacher but teach each other through pair works and group works. Nurses are given the opportunity to speak and participate as much as possible. Activities help the nurses remain active within the classes. The topics covered during February at National Heart Foundation include: Childhood Memories and Differences/Similarities between hospitals and homes. Nurses travelled back memory land and thought over the importance of memories, in particular, childhood memories. Nurses were also taught how to use Venn-diagrams to note similarities and differences between hospitals and homes. The topics covered at Birdem include: Introducing oneself and why English? Giving is the best form of communication. Students were taught ways in which to introduce themselves and the different ways of saying ‘Hello’ in the English Language. An emotional video was shown on ‘Giving being the Best Form of Communication’ and nurses were encouraged to continue giving.

Computer Classes: In the 21^st century, knowing how to use a computer has become practically a necessity opposed to an extra skill to acquire. Therefore, GHT has included computer classes within the program. To integrate the subjects and have the nurses use computers for Nursing and English classes, nurses are taught how to open their own email address and then given assignments to send to the instructors. Topics covered in the computer classes in February include: opening email accounts and internet browsing, an introduction to computers, their importance and their use in both the professional and personal life.

Grooming Classes:  Grooming is an essential part of all professions. Especially for nurses in the subcontinent, more often than not, they are not given some of the most important and basic grooming lessons. Therefore, the trust has organized grooming sessions for the nurses, in hopes of boosting their confidence and over-all appearance and work ethics as life savers. The grooming topics covered in February include: Body language and its different aspects, time management and good patient communication. Nurses are given general advice on how to carry themselves and encouraged to be professional at all times.

If interested in working with us or if you simply want to find out more information about what we endeavor to bring to the over-all healthcare system, current/future projects and much more,  Please visit us at: www.goodhealtrust.org

Healthcare Project in Korail Slum

Good Heal Trust’s outreach team is delighted to start off the year by giving medical treatment to a total of 500 patients! This is a great motivating factor for the team as GHT had started off with only 8 clinic patients and 0 camp patients when it first launched its outreach program back in May, 2013. A total of 399 patients were given service at the clinic and a total of 101 patients were given service at the camps. Two medical camps were held, one on the 8th and another on the 29th. The target diseases looked into for these camps were common diseases, pediatric/gynecological problems. Dr. Aynul Kabir  (from the Medicine Department) and Dr. Farhana Khatun (from the Gynecology Department) and  Dr. Farhana Rahat (from the Pediatric Department) provided us with their service during the camps.

Dr. Aynul Kabir did a brilliant job in consulting 18 patients for diseases ranging from common communicable diseases such as: pain In left arm, scabies, general weakness, trigger finger, osteoporosis, constipation, different body part aches, vertigo, anorexia, trauma, fever, diarrhea, leucorrhoea, common colds, Insomnia, anemia, numbness and tonsillitis. Some non-communicable diseases that were treated include: hypertension, heart problems, diabetic mellitus, bronchial asthma, peptic ulcer diseases and malnutrition amongst children.

Gynecologist Dr. Farhana Khatun has done an excellent job in consulting 23 female patients, ranging from 14 years of age to 55 years. She consulted them on the following medical issues: Gynecological Disorders such as dysparunia, lower abdominal pain, breast pain, itching of the vulva, Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), vaginitis, ovarian cyst, excessive white discharge, burning micturition in urine, excessive p/v bleeding, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroglossal cyst, nonspecific lymphadenitis, repeated miscarriages, Poly menorrhea, irregular menstruation for DMPA and several other such diseases.

Similar to previous sessions, Good Heal Trust presented health awareness sessions twice a week on general health advice to patients of the Korail Slum. Advice pertaining to personal hygiene, family planning, common diseases amongst women, common diseases present in households and many other issues were discussed. Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) were held with 680 people within the slum. These sessions are especially helpful to the people living in the slum as most of them have not been educated regarding health care and its importance.

Good Heal Trust was also successful in referring patients Gulshan Seba House for different health tests, including under Radiology: USG (ultrasound) of the whole abdomen, USG (ultrasound) of the lower abdomen, Chest X-Ray P/V view, Chest X-Ray B/V view, ECG. Pathology: Urine R/E, FB, ABF.

Through Skype sessions, Dr.Apurba Kumar Saha, Dr.Aynul Kabir gave service to 11 patients.

In the camps, a total of 58 new patients registered as Good Heal Trust‘s registered patients. Two of them had already registered from before. Good Heal Trust provided a health card to each person. A mere Tk50 was charged as the card registration fee. Each card holder patient was also given a registration number. By showing this health card, a slum dweller can enjoy all the services offered by Good Heal Trust through its clinic. If a registered member needs any kind of pathological or radiology test, Good Heal Trust will provide the patient a 25 % discount. In addition, with the health card the patient receives a 50% discount on doctor visits.

The trust hopes to have a fulfilling and rewarding year up ahead, giving medical care and advice to those who need it the most.

Nurses’ Skill Enhancement Program

Good Heal Trust is pleased to have its Nurses Skill Enhancement Program (NSEP) start at Birdem. An orientation was held on 27^th January for the nurses at Birdem. The classes are ongoing at National Heart Foundation. The trust continues to look for hospitals who would like to avail this great program for their nursing staff.

Nursing Classes: Nursing is the core of the NSEP program and therefore special attention is given to ensuring all the topics and classes have up-to date information. The topics are oriented to meet the needs of the hospital at which the nurses are taught. National Heart Hospital is taught topics related to the heart whereas Birdem Hospital has topics catered to Diabetes and other areas it specializes in. Initially, a Nursing Proficiency Exam was taken to assess the nurses’ level. There are two parts to the nursing sessions: Theory and Practical. The topics covered in the theory classes during January include: various therapeutic positions of patients and the use of comfort devices, therapeutic interpersonal relationships, vital signs, monitoring of B.P, types of sphygmomanometers, types of hypertension, Hypotension, nutrition: factors affecting nutritional status, nutritional assessment and types of diet. The topics covered in the practical sessions include: health assessment, monitoring of vital signs and a general respiratory assessment. English Classes: The over-all English competency of nurses in Bangladesh is very low. This is not due only to the lackings found within the Education System of Bangladesh, but also due to not having the opportunity to speak English nor having enough exposure to the language itself. Therefore, the English classes are taken through innovative means, incorporating pair-work and group work along with individual work. Nurses not only learn from the teacher but teach other through pair works and group works. Nurses are given the opportunity to speak and participate as much as possible.  Initially, an English Proficiency Exam was taken to assess the nurses’ level. The topics covered in January include: Why nursing and what kind of year was 2013? Writing about oneself and writing about a fellow classmate, description writing on different cut out magazine pictures, holidays and dream vacations.

Computer Classes: In the 21^st century, knowing how to use a computer has become practically a necessity opposed to an extra skill to acquire. Therefore, GHT has included computer classes within the program. To integrate the subjects and have the nurses use computers for Nursing and English classes, nurses are taught how to open their own email address and then given assignments to send to the instructors. Topics covered in the computer classes in January include: computer orientation, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, how to use the internet, how to open new emails, checking received emails, composing and sending emails and general internet browsing.

Grooming Classes:  Grooming is an essential part of all professions. Especially for nurses in the subcontinent, more often than not, they are not given some of the most important and basic grooming lessons. Therefore, the trust has organized grooming sessions for the nurses, in hopes of boosting their confidence and over-all appearance and work ethics as life savers. The grooming topics covered in January include: attire and style, the importance of personal grooming, the importance of personal appearance and image projection, standards of roaming at work place and creating an overall confident impression.

If interested in working with us or if you simply want to find out more information about what we endeavor to bring to the over-all healthcare system, current/future projects and much more, please visit us at: www.goodhealtrust.org

Healthcare Project in Korail Slum

Good Heal Trust’s outreach team is proud to say that the team was able to reach out to a greater number of patients at the Korail Slum than expected. A total of 400 patients were given medical treatment. 324 from the clinic and 86 from the two camps set up on 11^th December and 24^th December. This is great news considering the fact that GHT had started off with only 8 clinic patients and 0 camp patients when it initially launched its outreach program back in May, 2013.

Similar to previous sessions, Good Heal Trust presented health awareness sessions twice a week on general health advice to patients of the Korail Slum. Advice pertaining to personal hygiene, family planning, common diseases amongst women, common diseases present in households and many other issues were discussed. Focus Group Discussions (FDGs) were held with 680 people within the slum.

Good Heal Trust was also successful in referring 73 patients to different hospitals across Dhaka, including GHT Health Camp, Gulshan Seba Hospital, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka Shishu Hospital and Mohakhali TB Hospital.

Patients were also sent to Gulshan Seba House for different health tests, including the Ultrasound Sonography Test (USG), Thyroid Test, X-rays, Complete Blood Count (CBC) and Urine Culture & Sensitivity (C/S) tests.

Through Skype sessions, Dr.Apurba Kumar Saha, Dr.Aynul Kabir, and Dr. Farhana Khatun  have  given service  to  11  patients via Skype. Nurses provided follow ups to 26 patients.

In the camps, a total of 78 patients registered as Good Heal Trust‘s registered patients. A few of them had already registered from before. Good Heal Trust provided a health card to each person. A mere Tk50 was charged as the card registration fee. Each card holder patient was also given a registration number. By showing this health card, a slum dweller can enjoy all the services offered by Good Heal Trust through its clinic. If a registered member needs any kind of pathological or radiology test, Good Heal Trust will provide the patient a 25 % discount. In addition, with the health card the patient receives a 50% discount on doctor visits.

The trust hopes to serve even more patients in the upcoming months.

Nurses’ Skill Enhancement Program

It is with great pleasure that GHT has started its NSEP program once again at National Heart Foundation! We look forward to starting classes at Birdem 2 from the second week of January, 2014.

 Nursing Classes: The topics covered in nursing include: nursing history, new challenges in nursing, principles of nursing, scope of nursing, extended and expanded roles of a nurse, health and illness continuum, human needs, the nursing process, and health assessment.

English Classes:

The topics covered in the English Classes include: self introductions, visiting doctors and expressing feelings, holidays and vocations, homes and hospitals and childhood memories. For grammar/usage, topics covered include: simple past tense, simple future tense, adjectives, regular and irregular verbs.

Computer Classes: The topics covered in Computer Classes include: computer orientation, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, introduction on how to use the internet and opening new emails.

If interested in working with us or if you simply want to find out more information about what we endeavor to bring to the over-all healthcare system, current/future projects and much more, please visit us at: www.goodhealtrust.org