My first Magazine Abstract book 9_08_2017 | Page 71

Velka Lukic Ms Macedonian Association of Nurses and Midwives, Dame Gruev St. 28, MK [email protected] Valentina Goricanec, Ms Nursing Association Macedonian Association of Nurses and Midwives Skopje, MK [email protected] Natalija Dechovski PhD Nursing Association Macedonian Association of Nurses and Midwives , Skopje, MK [email protected] STRENGTHENING THE ROLE OF PATRONAGE NURSES IN DETECTION, EARLY RECOGNITION AND INTERVENTION OF CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DIFFICULTIES Each year in Macedonia, around 4,500 babies are likely to be born at risk of developmental difficulties and up to 1,000 could have severe problems. Children with developmental disabilities are cared for by families with little support from services, since тhere is a scarcity of trained professionals with appropriate knowledge or skills. The patronage nursing services are responsible for public health programmes in communities, but have no additional training. Objective: To improve readiness of health system and services provided by the patronage nurses to deliver timely, affordable, accessible and quality care to children with risks and developmental delays and support families. The project is based on holistic approach in care; fighting stigmatization; social inclusion; fostering partnerships. It intervenes in: Legal environment (development of primary and the secondary legislative framework); Knowledge and skills, awareness of nurses' crucial role as service provider, supporter and advocate of the children and families; Provision of information and guidance to parents Results: - Practice Guidebook for Patronage Nurses is developed - Cascade trainings of all patronage nursesin the country - Education materials for parents are developed - Facilitating national dialogue in development of the draft secondary nurses legislation in the health sector, regulating the scope of work and professional qualifications of patronage nurses Conclusions: The collaboration with local gynecologists, pediatrics and social services is improved. Networks are established with local NGOs and parents' associations. Knowledge, awareness, skills and confidence of the nurses is increased, providing base for improved care and support to children and their families. Keywords: Leadership, Children, Community Nursing, Families Congress Topics: Leading in Complex Originations 69 |