MY CHN

Journal

Santiago, Catherine
BSn 2 -Y2 - 5 olfu-val
May 9, 2024

So, for our final duty this semester, guess where we ended
up? Yep, back at the Potrero Health Center. We rolled in
at 8 AM sharp, right smack dab in the middle of peak
hours. And wouldn’t you know it, just our luck, there were
a bunch of other students from a different school there
too. Timing couldn’t have been better if we tried!

On our first go-round for this duty, I got handed the job
of doing risk assessments for new patients. Since it wasn’t
our first rodeo at the center, we were pretty familiar
with how they roll. But lo and behold, they’ve added some
new twists to spruce up their service. One biggie: for risk
assessments, they’re all about getting that PhilHealth info
or making patients fill out the form if they don’t have it
yet. Gotta stay updated!
 May 10, 2024
On day two, my task was to do a community survey. We’re diving deep into
people’s home setups, checking out sanitation and family planning vibes. The form’s
got some interesting Qs, like whether they’ve got proper sewage treatment (you
know, the basic stuff) and digging into family planning—how many folks are
under the roof, their ages, and if they’re using any birth control and what kind. If
not, we’re curious if they’re open to it. Plus, we’re checking in on any moms-to-be,
how many check-ups they’ve had, if they’re up to date on shots, and if they’re
popping any extra vitamins. Just your everyday survey stuff, right?

Doing this, I was blown away by how open people are about family planning. It’s like,
they get it, you know? They’re down to use contraceptives to stay safe and keep
those surprise pregnancies at bay. Plus, I’m seeing folks really stepping up their
sanitation game, which is huge for keeping bugs at bay. It hit me hard how vital
community health education is and the ripple effect it has. Especially for those who
might not have easy access to info. They say it takes a village to raise a kid, and I
totally get it now. We all gotta pitch in to make sure the next generation’s got a
solid shot at staying healthy.
 May 11, 2024
Our third day was a Saturday and it was chill day for everyone as we don’t have
much patients at the start of the shift. I was assigned on the triage this time.
For triage, we need to interview the patient by taking their Full Name, Age, Sex,
Address and if they are an existing patient in the health center. If they’re new
patient, we will have to create a card for record purposes. After taking their basic
information, we need to take their vital signs such as Blood Pressure, Temperature,
Respiratory Rate and Pulse Rate (if needed). Once done, we’ll ask their chief
complaint, for how long they have been experiencing it and if they have taken any
medicine. These details are very crucial as it will help the doctor to assess the
patient.
Before lunch, my teammates - Kimberly, Phoebe, Luis,
and Myca - took the floor to drop some knowledge
about rabies, foot-and-mouth disease, and HIV. It’s
crucial stuff, you know? Informing patients about
these diseases isn’t just about spreading awareness—
it’s about arming them with the info they need to stay
safe and healthy. When people know the facts, they
can take steps to protect themselves and their loved
ones, whether it’s getting vaccinated, practicing good
hygiene, or using protection. Plus, being informed helps
break down stigma and fear surrounding these
illnesses, making it easier for folks to seek help and
support if they need it.
 May 16, 2024
On our fourth day, the workload was intense due to the high
volume of patients. I was assigned to the PhilHealth Station,
which is also part of the Risk Assessment process. My main
responsibility was to interview patients and assist them in
filling out a PhilHealth form to become members. This is
beneficial as it allows them to access government healthcare
benefits when needed.
I encountered many patients throughout the day, but one
interaction stood out. I interviewed a foreign patient from
England, which was surprising as I didn't realize they were
also eligible for PhilHealth benefits. He visited the health
center to receive his annual pneumonia vaccine.

We also conducted health education sessions for the

patients. I focused on teaching them about Leptospirosis,
including how the infection occurs and prevention methods.
Additionally, I discussed the symptoms to help them
recognize the disease early if they experience any signs.
 May 18, 2024

For our final day, we visited the Catmon Super Health Center alongside fellow
OLFU-Val students. Our group led the way, building upon our discussions at the
Potrero Health Center, covering vital topics like Diabetes, Hypertension, Heat
Stroke, HIV-AIDS, Leptospirosis, Breast Cancer, and Influenza through engaging
health teachings. The highlight was demonstrating proper handwashing
techniques, which turned into a fun and interactive experience. It was
heartening to see everyone eagerly absorbing the knowledge and keen to learn!