Day 2 of Kawan Sehat Training: Arming Health Agents with Crucial Life-Saving Skills for Emergencies in Remote Villages.
Kawan Sehat agents acquire practical skills, ranging from CPR and first aid to pediatric care and effective communication, aiming to improve healthcare in East Sumba.
On the second training day, Kawan Sehat Agents immersed themselves in the practical life-saving skills essential to their work in the remote communities of East Sumba. The day began with an in-depth review of the 14 medical topics in the Primary Health Care curriculum, focusing on emergency response and fostering strong patient relationships. In addition, trainees were introduced to fully equipped medical backpacks made by Mas Alhadi, along with detailed guidance on how to use each item in critical situations.
The morning’s highlight was a live session from Banyuwangi with Ibu Dian, an interpersonal communication expert. She guides workers through essential skills for rural healthcare environments: building trust, alleviating patient anxiety, and establishing effective dialogue. Ibu Dian highlighted how empathy and intense interpersonal relationships can significantly improve the patient experience by fostering a foundation of trust and hope.
Throughout the day, specialized medical training was a focus. Nurse Anastasia led a session on pediatric care, teaching all Kawan Sehat Agents how to recognize and treat symptoms in children, a vulnerable population frequently affected by preventable diseases. Dr. Nabila then presented on dental health, addressing common issues such as tooth decay and infections in areas without adequate dental services. Learning basic dental intervention techniques allows all Kawan Sehat Agents to identify urgent cases and provide preliminary treatment.
Ivon and Anastasia demonstrated essential skills, including accurate blood pressure measurement and the Heimlich manoeuvre, which is crucial for dealing with choking emergencies. These hands-on demonstrations gave the students the confidence to manage breathing-related crises effectively. The training also included cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), where Dr. Narni and Ivon instructed workers on performing effective chest compressions and other life-saving techniques. This session equipped the Kawan Sehat Agents with the skills to respond quickly and effectively in critical situations.
To conclude the day, our Kawan Sehat Agents learned venom extraction techniques, a critical skill for managing snake or insect bites commonly encountered in rural East Sumba. Each lesson helped equip the Kawan Sehat Agents with the knowledge and confidence to impact their communities meaningfully.
On day two, the experience was transformative for all Kawan Sehat Agents as they gained practical, life-saving skills they would soon apply in their villages. Each health worker who completed the session is better equipped to provide immediate and effective care, from managing pediatric emergencies to performing CPR. This training focuses on imparting knowledge and converting it into action, ensuring the continuous improvement of health services and saving lives in East Sumba.
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Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – the 11th of November 2024
