Newsline
15/7/2022
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15/7/2022
PHOTO | NICHOLAS WAMALWA
Issue 15
Awards Galore ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
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Contents
Editor’s note
ISSUE 15 Editor’s note p.2 Awards Galore p.3-4 Dr. Juma selected for the Global Health Equity Scholarship (GHES) p. 5 World Breastfeeding Week 2022: Step up for breastfeeding; Educate and support p. 6-7 Arthroscopy explained. p. 8 POSITIVE MENTIONS FROM KNH SOCIALS p. 8 15 year old Bianca Ndung’u becomes the youngest donor for the Adopt a Bed Campaign p. 9 The Nursing Council boosts the Adopt A Bed Campaign p.10 The intern’s experience p.10 The A to Z of Colposcopy p.11 The KNH Pediatric Rehabilitation Centre p.12 Our story in pictures p.13 Comic zone p. 14
ON THE COVER Awards Galore
p. 3
Marketing & Communication Department Design Concept Team: Dave Opiyo, Edel Q. Mwende, Yvonne Gichuru & Collins Cheruiyot
Editorial Team: Dave Opiyo , Edel Q. Mwende, Luke Kung’u, Yvonne Gichuru, Winfred Gumbo, Priscah Angwenyi, Effie Sande & Sheila Murithi
Stories: Dave Opiyo , Edel Q. Mwende, Linnette Leyi, Winfred Gumbo, Lukas Nyaburi, Julie Matiba, Naftali Ruto, Yvonne Gichuru, Luke Kung’u, Peter Githua, Sheila Murithi & Steve Mutuku
Design By: Collins Cheruiyot
Photos: Nicholas Wamalwa, Sheila Murithi, Gad Omondi, Steve Arwa, & Elijah Ng’ang’a
Tel: +254 20 2726300-9 Ext. 43121 or 43969 Fax: +254 20 272572 Email: caffairs@knh.or.ke knh.caffairs@gmail.com
To contribute or report on newsworthy items, please contact the Editorial team.
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
Dear Colleagues, The last week has been a great one for Kenyatta National Hospital. The institution and some of its staff were separately feted in recognition of their excellence in service delivery as well as prudent management of resources. (Read the main story, page 3) KNH was declared the best public institution in energy management during the 18th Energy Management Awards held at the Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi. The entries to this award were submitted by Director Facilities and Services Eng. Richard Binga and his team. Board member Mr. Emmanuel Bitta, Dr. Makanyengo Margaret Omondi Othieno, a retired Consultant Psychiatrist and former Head of the Mental Health Department and Dr. Weston Khisa Wakasiaka were awarded Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S). On the other hand Senior Director, Clinical Services Dr. Irene Inwani, and Mrs. Rose Mugambi, Director, Supply Chain Management were awarded the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya (O.G.W). We at Newsline would like to congratulate the awardees for the good work done. But we would also wish to challenge the rest of the staff to redouble their efforts and help maintain the KNH flag where it currently is – at the top. All the Newslines and Newsletters can be accessed online at: https://bit.ly/3uQGCcI Mr. Dave Opiyo Chief Manager, Marketing and Communication Kenyatta National Hospital
Find us on Social Media Kenyatta National Hospital
Kenyatta National Hospital Official Page
@CeoKnh @KNH_hospital
www.knh.or.ke
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Awards Galore Maintaining the lead in Energy Management By Dave Opiyo
K
enyatta National Hospital is this week basking in glory after the health facility and some of its staff were separately feted in recognition of excellence in service delivery and prudent management of resources. On July 8, 2022, the KNH was declared the best public institution in energy management during the 18th Energy Management Awards held at the Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi. This is the third time, in a row, that the institution is being feted at the annual awards for its efficient energy use in its operations. The awards are organized by the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and the Energy Regulatory Commission. The icing on the cake was perhaps the conferment of three different national honors to some of its staff by H.E President Uhuru Kenyatta. Board member Mr. Emmanuel Bitta, Dr. Makanyengo Margaret Omondi Othieno, a retired Consultant Psychiatrist and former Head of the Mental Health Department and Dr. Weston Khisa Wakasiaka, were awarded Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S). On the other hand while Senior Director, Clinical Services Dr. Irene Inwani, and Mrs. Rose Mugambi, Director, Supply Chain Management were awarded the Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya(O.G.W). These awards are normally presented to individuals in recognition of the outstanding service rendered to the country in different responsibilities and capacities. Chief Executive Officer Dr. Evanson Kamuri, EBS congratulated the awardees and encouraged other staff members to redouble their efforts if they were to follow suit. “These awards are not only
for the individuals conferred but the entire hospital as well. Congratulations on the good work done. We hope that in the future, more and more KNH staff will be conferred these national honors. This calls for a major celebration,” said the CEO. In the Energy Management Awards, KNH was feted for spearheading several initiatives to save energy at the institution. According to Eng. Richard Binga, the Director, Facilities and Services, some of the initiatives included the replacement of fluorescent tube lights with energy-efficient LED light fittings, which had saved the institutions millions of shillings that could have been paid as power bills. “The hospital has more than 40,000 lighting points. We have so far replaced about 30,000 light tubes with energy-efficient Led lights resulting in an annual saving of 424,200 Kwh electrical energy thus reducing the annual electricity bill by Kshs 7.9 million,” said Eng. Binga. Other initiatives, he said, includes the installation of lift dump waiters with energy-efficient motor for theatres and TSSU as well as the installation of energy-efficient
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
PHOTO | NICHOLAS WAMALWA The KNH team display the prestigious award
“ We hope that in the future, more and more KNH staff will be conferred these national honors. This calls for a major celebration,” said the CEO.
laundry equipment ie: 2 No. Washer extractor and a Tumble drier. On Thermal Energy, Eng. Binga said the hospital uses boilers to generate steam which is a critical utility for cooking in the main kitchen, washing, drying and ironing patient linen at the laundry as well as sterilization of theatre linen and surgical tools at the TSSU/CSSD unit. The boiler, he said, uses Heavy fuel Oil (HFO) to generate steam which cost the hospital about Sh120 million annually. However, to reduce this cost, Eng. Binga said the hospital replaced the old boiler with a modern boiler that is fitted with an automatic operation control system for running the equipment. “A new steam distribution and condensate return system was installed to reduce losses due to steam leaks, unlagged steam pipes, and condensate recovery,” he said. “We also changed the boiler operation hours. This resulted in an average reduction in the daily fuel consumption by the steam boiler of 350 liters. Thus annual saving of 125,000 liters at a unit price per liter of Kshs. 70/= the annual cost
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Dr. Irene Inwani, Senior Director Clinical Services,OGW displays the award
savings amounts to Kshs. 8.82 Million,” he added. On Administrative Best Practice, the senior official said the institution developed a comprehensive energy management policy. The policy, he said, was submitted and approved by EPRA in compliance with the energy Management Act 2019. Some of the policy’s key highlights added was the appointment of an energy management committee to spearhead energy management activities in the hospital. The policy further calls for the allocation of resources (budget) for the implementation of the energy management initiatives identified in the Energy Audit Report.
Dr. Lydia Okutoyi , Director Health Care Quality, displays the award
GAZETTE NOTICE NO. 8229, 8th July 2022
IN RECOGNITION OF DISTINGUISHED AND OUTSTANDING SERVICES RENDERED TO THE NATION
Congratulations
Mrs. Rose Mugambi, Director, Supply Chain ManagementOrder of the Grand Warrior of Kenya(O.G.W)
Dr. Makanyengo Margaret Omondi Othieno, a retired Consultant Psychiatrist and former Head of the Mental Health Department- Awarded Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S).
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
Board member Mr. Emmanuel Bitta- Awarded Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S). Dr. Irene Inwani, Senior Director, Clinical Services - Order of the Grand Warrior of Kenya(O.G.W)
Dr. Weston Khisa Wakasiaka, were awarded Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (M.B.S).
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Dr. Juma selected for the Global Health Equity Scholarship (GHES) By Linnette Leyi Dr. Phoebe Juma is a physician and the current H.O.U Infectious Diseases Unit. She has been working at Kenyatta National Hospital since 2020 right before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic when the unit was established. This year, Dr. Juma was selected through a competitive process for the Global Health Equity Scholarship (GHES) as a postdoctoral fellow for the 2022-2023 period. The GHES is one of six Fogarty Global Health programs and has 28 partner Low-and-Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) institutions across 23 countries including Kenyatta National Hospital. The study which will be based at KNH will look at Community-Acquired Pneumonia (CAP) among people living with HIV. It will be an effectiveness– implementation science hybrid design study. “We propose to develop an algorithm for management of CAP in HIV-positive patients in resource-constrained settings. We shall also look at barriers and facilitators to this process,” said Dr. Juma. She identified that there was low adherence to guidelines on the management of these patients. “The algorithms will help clinicians manage these patients better and consequently reduce the mortality rate,” she added. To fulfill part of the requirements of the fellowship, Dr. Juma will spend 2 to 3 months at Yale
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University in the United States of America engaged in a training experience which will contribute to her growth as an independent global health researcher. The outcomes of this research will help build capacity in the field and for the Hospital and consequently improve service delivery. Dr. Juma’s mentors are Dr. John KinuthiaDeputy Director Medical Research and Dr. Irene InwaniSenior Director Clinical Services under the umbrella of the KNH Research and Programmes Department. Every year, the Research Department advertises opportunities for research funding where interested parties can apply.
PHOTO | COURTESY Dr. Phoebe JumaPhysician and H.O.U Infectious Diseases Unit
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World Breastfeeding Week 2022: Step up for breastfeeding; Educate and support By Sheila Murithi First celebrated in 1992, World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is a global celebration that occurs every year from the 1st to the 7th of August in more than 120 countries. In Kenya, the WBW activities were rolled out a little different this year; with the upcoming national elections in August, the fete took place a month earlier, from 1st to 7th July 2022. World Breastfeeding Week is jointly organized and promoted worldwide by World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). It aims to highlight the huge benefits that breastfeeding can bring to the health and welfare of babies and benefits to maternal health, focusing on good nutrition, poverty reduction, and food security. The week has the dual goal of improving the health of babies and promoting, protecting, and supporting the rights of women to breastfeed anywhere and at any time. The theme for WBW 2022, “Step up for Breastfeeding; Educate and Support” is focused on promoting breastfeeding for survival, health and well-being of children, mothers, and communities at large for both the short and long-term. The focus of this year’s theme also reflects on the need for strengthening efforts that were in place pre-COVID to recover and sustain the gains achieved, towards building resilient communities and economies. Further, it emphasizes the need for continuous capacity development of actors to transform existing systems through education and awareness creation on the need to promote, protect and support breastfeeding. (Source: https://bit.ly/2LfVmgI) “Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival. It is key to sustainable development for babies, as it improves nutrition, ensures food security and reduces inequalities between society cadres and within countries,” stated Mr. Alphonce
Muema, Assistant Chief Nutrition Officer and Chairperson of the KNH WBW2022 committee. He added: “The Committee had an activitypacked week with health talks in obstetrics and pediatrics wards and clinics, an exhibition outside the KNH Information Centre, National launch of WBW2022 held at Mbagathi hospital and Continuing Medical Education (CMEs) at the lactation center situated in ward 1A and Kenyatta Prime Care Centre (KPCC) conference room.” “The #WBW2022 Launch, graced by CAS Dr. Mercy Mwangangi (Guest of Honor) and an avid supporter of breastfeeding, was one of the highlights of the week for our team. This is because we had a chance to demonstrate kangaroo mother care which is practiced and taught to mothers who have preemies in KNH NICU and did a presentation about the role of KNH in capacity building of health care providers on maternalinfant and young child nutrition (MYCN),” Assistant Chief Nutrition Officer, Ms. Grace Echoka told the Newsline. Newsline was keen to note the zeal and commitment shown by the team as they mobilized mothers with young children and families coming to seek other services in KNH to pass
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
by the exhibition tent and learn about breastfeeding and how to offer the much-needed support to sustain it up to at least 2 years of age for their young ones. “Support for mothers is a community responsibility,” said Ms. Rosebella Keino, Assistant Chief Nutrition Officer who was often stationed at the exhibition tent. The WBW Committee members also went round the Obstetrics and Pediatric wards endowing staff in these areas with badges showing that they support the cause; Step up for Breastfeeding; Educate and Support. The week culminated with a CME on Friday, July 8th, 2022 where one of the WBW 2022 KNH sponsors, Krishna Chemist Ltd.; a supplier of Mamalait – a product that improves breast milk supply by increasing the level of prolactin hormone in lactating mothers, offered training on the product. In attendance were nurses, nutritionists and Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission Counselors (PMCT). The training mainly focused on how to promote and improve exclusive breastfeeding. Ms. Mercy Barwecho, Deputy Chief Nutrition Officer, brought the week to a close by thanking the team for the well-organized activities and emphasized the importance of upholding initiatives that promote
PHOTO | GAD OMONDI Mr. Laurence Mumo, representative from Krishna Chemist Ltd. conducting a presentation during the #WBW2022 CME at the Lactation Centre
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and sustain exclusive breastfeeding such as: 1. The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative The Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative was created to provide hospitals with a framework to support moms and babies form positive breastfeeding habits right from birth, to set them up for a longterm breastfeeding relationship. Hospitals that implement the 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding are awarded the Baby-Friendly Certification. Among the 10 steps include training staff in breastfeeding implementation, giving infants no food or drink other than breastmilk unless medically indicated, giving no pacifiers or artificial nipples, and providing community support for breastfeeding mothers.
PHOTO | SHEILA MURITHI Ms. Rosebella Keino, Assistant Chief Nutrition Officer, KNH talking and offering support to members of the public who visited the exhibition tent outside the KNH Information Centre during the World Breastfeeding Week
2. The First Hour The first hour after birth is critical in initiating breastfeeding and it is a vital step for reducing infant and under-five mortality. 3. Exclusive Breastfeeding: The Gold Standard Exclusive Breastfeeding: The Gold Standard focuses on the widely-known health benefits of exclusively breastfeeding over mixed or full supplemental feeding. Health benefits that breastfed infants enjoy are decreased infections, lower incidence of allergies, and greater cognitive function. The mothers’ love promotes World Breastfeeding Week and supports breastfeeding moms, but more importantly, we support all moms. Whether you choose to breastfeed
PHOTO | SHEILA MURITHI 2022 WBW Committee members visiting the Obstetrics and Pediatric wards endowing staff with badges promoting the cause; Step up for Breastfeeding; Educate and Support
or not, we believe that every mother deserves a village and that we can be a part of it.
PHOTO |SHEILA MURITHI Ms Grace Echoka, Assistant Chief Nutrition Officer, KNH demonstrating Kangaroo Mother Care during the World Breastfeeding Week Launch held at Mbagathi Hospital on 5th July 2022
PHOTO | SHEILA MURITHI Mr. Alphonce Muema, Assistant Chief Nutrition Officer, KNH presenting the role of KNH in capacity building of health care providers on maternal infant and young child nutrition (MYCN) to CAS Dr. Mercy Mwangangi and other guests during the #WBW2022 Launch held at Mbagathi Hospital on 5th July 2022
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
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Arthroscopy explained By Naftali Ruto Arthroscopy is a procedure done on patients with joint problems and is considered an option if x-rays and other imaging studies have left some diagnostic questions unanswered. During an arthroscopy procedure, the surgeon inserts a narrow tube attached to a fibre-optic video camera through a small incision. The view inside the joint is transmitted to a high definition video monitor. This enables the surgeon to see inside the joint without having to make a large incision. Arthroscopy helps doctors to diagnose and treat a wide range of joint conditions, most commonly those affecting the knees, shoulders, elbows, ankles, hips and wrists. Arthroscopy is used to treat conditions such as loose bone fragments, torn ligaments, scarring joints and inflamed joint linings. It is widely regarded as a very safe procedure with few chances of complications. However, some complications may occur, including tissue or nerve damage which normally occurs when instruments are placed and moved within the joint causing damage to the joint structures. In addition, other complications may occur such as getting an infection; as is a possibility with any type of surgery, and blood clots which may form in one’s legs
or lungs if the procedure lasts more than an hour. Arthroscopic procedures are usually quick and once completed, one is taken to a separate room to recover for a few hours before being discharged. Some of the aftercare routines that maybe recommended by a doctor include; prescribed medication to relive pain, the use of ice to help reduce swelling and pain, protection such as slings and crutches and finally the doctor may also recommend incorporating exercise to help strengthen muscles and improve joint function. In terms of outcomes in general, one is able to resume light activity and desk work in a few days and in
about a week or three, one is able to engage in more strenuous activities. Everyone’s recovery is unique and some patients may take longer to recover and a longer rehabilitation period. The surgeon discusses the arthroscopy findings with the patient accompanied by a written report. During follow-up visits, the surgeon continues to monitor the patient’s progress and addresses any issues that may arise. It is also important to note that if one develops a fever, redness, swelling and persistent pain that is not relieved by medication or numbness during the healing phase, one should consult their doctor.
PHOTO | HEALTH PLUS
Illustration showing Arthroscopy
POSITIVE MENTIONS FROM KNH SOCIALS By Luke Kung’u Pauline Oywaya: Hello KNH, This is my story from my experience with KNH. At the peak of COVID-19 in the year 2020 on Sunday, April 26, 2020, I arrived at KNH at dawn in an ambulance. I was barely 18 years old and I was so confused. I had no experience with motherhood and I was crying nonstop. My baby; Claude Mkoji was 2 days to turning 1 month old. He was ill and the doctors at Moi County Hospital –Voi, tried their best but they could not handle it. I almost lost hope, but KNH handled the condition of my baby. He had multiple infections which made him go into a comma, thanks to all the doctors and nurses who worked round the clock to ensure my baby would survive, especially Dr. Mariam ward 3D- you are the best! Dr.
Mariam inspired me and for that reason, I’m joining nursing school soon. I want to help others too. I was told that my baby would not make it to six months because of the condition diagnosed, but you all tried your best. There is a picture to prove that when I arrived to KNH with my son, where he was on oxygen for one month. The other picture is when we were going home from KNH after five
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
months and the other one is when he just woke up from the comma opening his eyes. Even though he passed on a year later, I felt all your efforts. Thank you all and may God bless all the medics; KNH is the best of the best. I don’t just know how to thank you. Receive love and blessings and know that you inspired a young woman who will be one of you soon.
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15 year old Bianca Ndung’u becomes the youngest donor for the Adopt a Bed Campaign By Yvonne Gichuru The Together We Care Foundation - Bianca’s Family and Friends donated 2 beds to the Pediatric Cancer Wards to promote the ongoing Adopt A Bed campaign initiative in KNH on Tuesday, July 12th, 2022. Bianca, the 15-year-old, expressed her gratitude to the Hospital for the opportunity to make a positive impact in the lives of children undergoing cancer treatment. “I invited my friends to join me and spend time with Cancer patients at KNH in December last year during the festive season. It gave us an opportunity to learn more about their challenges and needs. Dr. Irene Nzamu - Head, Pediatric Hemato - Oncology Unit, KNH shared with us the situation of Childhood Cancer in Kenya and around the world. This inspired me to help have more children access treatment in a comfortable way by mobilizing my family and friends to donate the beds,” she said. The Together We Care foundation
was launched on 15th February 2022 during World Childhood Cancer Day. It aims to raise funds to support children with cancer and create awareness on the severity of childhood cancer in order to bring change and make a difference. Bianca, the founder, urges young people to join her in spreading awareness on childhood cancer
since it is a worthy cause that will be of great impact to society. Receiving the beds on behalf of the KNH management was Dr. Amina Guleid - Head of Unit, Universal Health Coverage who appreciated the team and posed a challenge to other young people such as Bianca to follow suit.
PHOTO | ELIJAH NGANG’A
Ms. Bianca Ndung’u Founder, Together We Care Foundation
PHOTO | ELIJAH NGANG’A
KNH Team led by Dr. Amina Guleid Hou, Universal Health Coverage receive the donation from Bianca’s family and friends
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
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The Nursing Council boosts the Adopt A Bed Campaign
The intern’s experience By Steve Mutuku
Meet: Sumeya Adan Department: Obstetrics and gynecology By Winfred Gumbo The KNH ‘Adopt A Bed’ campaign received a major boost from the Nursing Council of Kenya who donated four (4) beds on Wednesday, July 6th, 2022. While receiving the beds, KNH Board Member Ms. Winnie Beauttah thanked the Nursing Council of Kenya for the kind gesture as it will go a long way in helping the patients. “I would like to thank you for taking part in helping with patient care at the Hospital,” said Ms. Beauttah. The KNH CEO Dr. Evanson Kamuri, EBS on his part thanked the guests while noting that the beds will contribute to the patients’ comfort during their stay in the Hospital. “The number of beds donated will serve several patients. One bed translates into over 500 patients receiving care, within a month in our wards,” said Dr. Kamuri. “At one point in this lifetime, each and every Kenyan becomes part of patient care by either being a patient or having a relative seeking medical care. It is important that all get the dignity they deserve during their stay at the Hospital,” added Dr. Kamuri. The Nursing Council of Kenya CEO Ms. Edna Tallam said that the donation is in line with the pledge they made during the launch of the KNH Patient
PHOTO | NICHOLASWAMALWA The Nursing Council of Kenya CEO Ms. Edna Tallam (Front) giving her remarks when she led the Council team in donating beds to KNH
Tasks: Filling, typing, writing minutes, dispatching & receiving letters and Network trouble shooting. Three things learnt about KNH: It is the largest referral hospital in the country There is unity and team work among members of staff
Week which included the celebration of the Day of the Sick earlier on in February 2022. “KNH takes care of the medical value of the patient, so we decided to take care of the social value of the patient,” concluded Ms. Tallam.
“The number of beds donated will serve several patients. One bed translates into over 500 patients receiving care, within a month in our wards,” said Dr. Kamuri.”
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
PHOTO | NICHOLASWAMALWA KNH CEO Dr. Evanson Kamuri EBS giving his remarks when the Nusring Council of Kenya donated beds to KNH
How has the internship added value? My internship has helped me gain more knowledge on how to manage an office, teamwork and team spirit. I have also learnt that it is important to learn from my mistakes in order to be better every day. Most importantly, I learnt how to manage my time well Most memorable moment at KNH? I was sent to the salaries office to pick up pay slips yet I never knew where the place was. I had to ask and this helped me know my way around the hospital. Five-year career plan: Furthering my education and training on-thejob to enhance my knowledge and skills to be a better worker in the positions I will hold
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The A to Z of Colposcopy By Julie Matiba & Peter Githua Cervical cancer screening is one of the recommended ways to prevent cervical cancer. There are three main methods used to screen for cervical cancer; HPV (Human PapillomaVirus) testing, Pap smear test and Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA). If there is an abnormality after either of these tests, colposcopy is usually recommended. Newsline had a sit-down with Ms. Julie Matiba- clinical oncology nurse specialist at KNH to enlighten about colposcopy services available at the Hospital. What is Colposcopy? This is a procedure done to take a closer look at the cervix, vaginal walls and vulva for any changes that could later lead to cancer. During the procedure, a special lighted microscope (colposcope) magnifies the tissues that line the cervix and vagina. If any abnormal areas are visualized, a tissue sample (biopsy) is taken, using a sharp tool, for further testing in the laboratory. This may cause discomfort and one may feel some pressure and mild cramps but not pain. It is not surgery, but a painless procedure that takes less than 30 minutes and does not require one to stay in hospital. You may be able to go back to work/school after the procedure. Colposcopy allows the health care provider to identify and treat pre-cancer cells early so that they do not turn into cancerous cells. The procedure is usually done by a gynaecologist or a trained specialist called a colposcopist. Colposcopies can also test for genital warts, non-cancerous growths like polyps and is also used to evaluate abnormal vaginal bleeding or vulval itching. What kind of preparation is needed by a patient before colposcopy? Schedule for colposcopy when you are not menstruating and are not pregnant.
Avoid any kind of vaginal penetration for 48hours before the procedure. e. g. use of tampons, insertion of a finger, or vaginal medications such as creams or suppositories. What does a patient expect after a colposcopy procedure? • A vaginal pack or liquid bandage is inserted in the vagina. One is advised to remove it after 6-8 hours. If a biopsy was done one may have: • Light vaginal bleeding that lasts a few days • Slight pain in the vagina that lasts a few days • Vaginal discharge that may appear black or brown • During these days, one is advised to use pads to manage any vaginal discharge or bleeding. Avoid inserting anything into the vagina, avoid sex, use of tampons or douching for at least 6 weeks. • They are also advised to seek medical attention if the following happens: • Severe pain in the lower belly (pelvic region) • Heavy bleeding (more than the
ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
usual period) • Any signs of infection e.g. foulsmelling discharge, fever or chills • Colposcopy results may show mild, moderate or severe changes on the cervical cells.
PHOTO | JOSTRUST Colposcopy illustration
If the changes are mild, one is advised to repeat the pap test after 6 months or periodically. Mild changes usually go away on their own. “Receiving a diagnosis of cervical cancer can be overwhelming, however, treatment options are available,” said Ms. Matiba. For moderate to severe cell changes, one will require treatment. There are several types of treatments for pre-cancerous lesions: • LEEP – Loop electrosurgical excision procedure • Cone biopsy • Thermal Ablation or Cryotherapy • Laser surgery • Kenyatta National Hospital is well equipped for the diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer.
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The KNH Pediatric Rehabilitation Centre By Lukas Nyaburi Pediatric rehabilitation is vital for children born with deformities and delayed milestones, and these arise due to issues such as birth infection, prolonged labour, cerebral palsy and injury that occur during birth. Occupational therapists will ensure each and every child engages in his or her occupations and we understand the occupation of a child is to play. Engaging Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) is core to each and every person and every child has to engage in all aspects of occupations despite the challenges they have due to birth defects. According to Occupational Therapist, Mr. Austine Mutua at Kenyatta National Hospital, these conditions can be identified and managed early. Occupational Therapist will assess every child upon birth to determine the presence of primitive reflexes that are crucial to every child for engagement in his/her ADLs that is sucking. Mr. Mutua continued: When such conditions are identified in a child, there are crucial steps that can be taken with the help of the Occupational Therapist (OT) to rehabilitate the child; 1.
2.
3.
4. 5.
6.
The initial step is to train the child to attain head control which is a prerequisite to achieving other developmental milestones. Training the child how to weight bear on elbows (tummy time) for functional play and muscular strengthening. Training the child to be able to seat in different positions in order to develop their ability to be able to sit normally. Training the child how to crawl in order to reach out for objects and toys to play. Training the child to attain a kneeling position thus engaging and encouraging a lot of playing in order to exercise the body parts (hands and legs) Half-kneeling position is introduced where the child engages in functional play while in half kneeling position thus strengthening lower limbs.
7. The child is introduced to a walking aid and with the help of an occupational therapist helping to stand or learn to walk slowly. 8. A lot of playing is encouraged as it helps to develop cognitive stimulation in the child. In addition, Mr. Austine Mutua, elaborated on other conditions that can lead to delayed milestone e.g 1. Cerebral palsy 2. Rickets 3. Down Syndrome 4. Spina bifida 5. Hydrocephelus 6. Meningitis 7. Congenital deformities Occupational Therapists will also work with other multidisciplinary team i.e Orthopedic Technologists, Physiotherapists, Neurologists and other specialists in order to ensure the child is managed comprehensively.
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According to Mr. Mutua, there are also challenges that might occur to a child who is undergoing such medical condition; · Comorbidity, a condition where the child has more than one condition like cerebral palsy and convulsion where there is likelihood of milestone regression · Lack of financial stability on the part of the parent to provide the child with the necessary special seats and equipment that are vital for functional positions
PHOTO | STEVE ARWA Mr. Austine Mutua (R) carrying out a Paediatric Rehabilitation session at the Paediatric Rehabilitation Centre
Caregivers are trained on home program which ensures therapy continuity at own level. In addition, early identification of the problem can assist in ensuring early diagnosis is done and crucial steps taken to prevent the child’s condition from deteriorating. Capacity building is also done where the caregivers are given a lot of information and knowledge on their child’s condition upon discharge.
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Our story in Pictures
PHOTO | NICHOLAS WAMALWA
KNH CEO Dr. Evanson Kamuri, EBS, addresses the public on ‘triple threat’ of HIV, teenage pregnancies & Gender-Based Violence in Nyeri county
PHOTO | STEVE ARWA
Universal Health Coverage (UHC), HoU - Dr. Amina Guleid during the City Cancer Challenge Foundation (C/Can) collaborative meeting led by Ms. Sophie Bussman - Regional Director, Africa (middle) as they deliberated on avenues to support oncology patients at the CEO’s Boardroom
PHOTO | STEVE ARWA
PHOTO | GAD OMONDI
2022 World breastfeeding Week Committee Members
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Charles Mulwa Kyenze(3rd R) cutting an appreciation cake with the message ‘Thank You, We Appreciate You Team’ in Ward 5D on Tuesday, June 28, 2022. He thanked the multidisciplinary team of medical staff for taking care of him when he was involved in a road traffic accident and referred to KNH for specialized health care services.
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Comic Zone Laughter, the best medicine!!
By Edel Q. Mwende This Doctor knows how to solve a problem!
asked him to two-step with me. He was eager to comply. So we two-stepped to the stretcher, and he sat down. Then he began to undress, and throw his clothes about the room. Mission accomplished!”— Janet C
A man goes to the Doctor, worried about his wife’s temper. The Doctor asks: “What’s the problem? The man says: “Doctor, I don’t know what to do. Every day my wife seems to lose her temper for no reason. It scares me.” The Doctor says: “I have a cure for that. When it seems that your wife is getting angry, just take a glass of water and start swishing it in your mouth. Just swish and swish but don’t swallow it until she either leaves the room or calms down.” Two weeks later the man comes back to the doctor looking fresh and reborn. The man says “Doctor that was a brilliant idea! Every time my wife started losing it, I swished with water. I swished and swished, and she calmed right down! How does a glass of water do that?” The Doctor says: “The water itself does nothing. It’s keeping your mouth shut that does the trick”. He diagnosed the problem well! Cha Cha Cha “One late evening, I was working the emergency room and the police brought in an extremely intoxicated man who appeared to have been in an accident. I needed to do an assessment to see if or where he was injured, and asked him to get undressed and put on a gown. Of course, he responded with a resounding ‘No!’ and he wouldn’t get onto the stretcher. The officers attempted to get him to comply, but that was just agitating him. But I knew this man from past ER visits, and I knew he loved to dance. So I
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We do not see nature with our eyes, but with our understandings and our hearts - William Hazlitt
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Time spent amongst trees is never time wasted – Katrina Mayer
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If you don’t commit today to start becoming the person you need to be to create the extraordinary life you want, what makes you think that tomorrow – or next week, or next month, or next year – is going to be any different? They won’t. And that’s why you must draw your line in the sand TODAY. ~ Hal Elrod
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This morning, you have a choice. You can lay in the dark replaying the awful events of the week, or you can turn the light on and read God’s WordHis truth-which is the best thing to do when lies are swarming and painful thoughts are attacking like a bunch of bloodthirsty mosquitoes.” ~ Lysa TerKeurst
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The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart - Helen Keller
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There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it - Edith Wharton
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I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination Jimmy Dean
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Perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we can catch excellence - Vince Lombardi
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Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant - Robert Louis Stevenson
OUR VISION A world class patient-centered specialized care hospital OUR MISSION To optimize patient experience through innovative healthcare; facilitate training and research; and participate in national health policy formulation OUR MOTTO We Listen, We Care
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ISSUE 15 | Kenyatta National Hospital Newsline
Inspirational Quotes
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