Rwanda

GOALS

  • Introduce and proliferate CPAP into medical facilities that have large disease burdens from acute respiratory distress in the neonatal and pediatric population.

  • Implement and maintain health professional training in the use of CPAP by training instructors.

  • Assist in the development of standards of practice for CPAP in Rwanda and integrate CPAP training into the national medical and para medical education system.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

  1. Program Sites: The program started with three hospitals in Rwanda (CHUK-University Central Hospital of Kigali, Kibagabaga District Hospital, Ruhengeri District Hospital) to allow for adaptation of the material to fit local needs as indicated. The program then expanded to include:

    • Byumba District Hospital

    • CHUK Referral Hospital

    • Gisenyi District Hospital

    • Kibagabaga District Hospital

    • Kibungo District Hospital

    • Kibuye District Hospital

    • Muhima District Hospital

    • Nyamata District Hospital

    • Ruhengeri District Hospital

    • Rwamagana District Hospital

      Each hospital was provided two CPAP machines, 200 CPAP nasal prong interfaces and two pulse oximeters.

  2. Training: The initial training was led by a United States pediatric intensive care physician and nurse. The five-day intensive training included two days of classroom learning and three days of bedside in-service training. Each instructor received a training kit and comprehensive training curriculum including: PowerPoint presentation, instructor manual, training mannequin, instructional video and bedside instructional tools.
     

  3. Monitoring and Evaluation of program: Monitoring and evaluation was performed to ensure the program is effective and sustainable. At six-month intervals for 12 months, knowledge and skills evaluations were performed to measure training fidelity. Equipment durability was assessed, qualitative surveys used to identify barriers to successful application, and local healthcare providers documented CPAP usage
     

  4. Support & Sustainability: The Rwandan Pediatric Association oversaw the program and ensured CPAP proliferation by advocating for training, public and private investment and integration of CPAP into national health care policies and practices. Health Builders provided logistical, technical, and monitoring and evaluation support on the ground for the duration of the program.

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