Home-visiting nurses help safeguard children’s health
During home visits, medical professionals have the opportunity to spot early warning signs of health risks in infants.
- Українська
- English
Mariia Vavryk is a nurse who has been visiting families in Ukraine for over a year as part of the the Home Visiting Programme of the Ministry of Health and UNICEF – an initiative providing free support to families with children under the age of four in the comfort of their home.
She currently cares for 72 children. She also provides additional consultations at a healthcare facility when needed.
Today, Mariia is visiting nine-month-old Makar to check on his health and development after a worrying start in life.
“During a visit when the baby was six months old, his mother mentioned that he had a poor appetite,” recalls Maria. “I also noticed his pale skin and restlessness, so I referred the family to a doctor.”
As a result of Mariia’s visit, early-stage anaemia was diagnosed in time. Little Makar received the necessary treatment, which helped restore his iron levels and prevented more serious health complications.
“A visit to a medical facility can be stressful for a child, and they may behave differently than they would at home. During home visits, I observe the child in their natural surroundings. This allows me to spot even the smallest changes in appearance, behaviour or development that may indicate a health concern.”
Today, Mariia will discuss the baby’s diet with his mother, helping her choose iron-rich foods. She will also monitor his overall development and offer guidance on physical activity, play and interaction that can contribute to good health.
“As a mum, it’s important for me to know that my child is developing appropriately for their age and is healthy. These visits from the nurse give me peace of mind, because I know I have someone to turn to for professional advice.”
The Home Visiting Programme is supported by the Government of Japan, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) via the German Development Bank (KfW), and Citi.
The programme is being implemented in 15 regions of Ukraine. Аs of today, around 20,126 children from 0 to 4 years old, and 33,525 parents and caregivers, have been supported by 1,451 health care workers through this programme.
