EQUIPMENT SHORTAGE HINDERS IMPLEMENTATION OF imci PROG.
	Maseru, May 19 (LENA) -- The Matron at the Department of Paedrics of the Queen II hospital Mrs. 'Malekhori Mots'oari says shortage of equipment at health centers hinders effective implementation of Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI) Programme. She said this when officially closing an eleven-day workshop on IMCI, which was held for nurse clinicians at Victoria Hotel on Friday. Mrs. Mots'oari said lack of oxygen and shortage of transport in health centers makes it difficult for nurse clinicians to operate effectively adding that however the participants have been equipped with skills on management of childhood illnesses, which will enable them to assess, classify and treat children' illnesses. She mentioned that the work load is going to decrease at the Paedrics Ward as referrals will be only admit children with serious cases. The National IMCI Programme Manager Ms 'Mannuku Mathe said IMCI programme is a broad strategy that aims to reduce child morbidity and mortality in children under five years at home and in the health facilities. She stated that the programme also aims to contribute to improved growth and development of children in the country. Speaking in an interview, one of the facilitators Mrs. 'Matebello Tsiki, who is a Public Nurse at Queen II said due to HIV/AIDS pandemic, nurses are unable to effectively treat children's illnesses. She added that children illnesses, which were easily treated in the past, are now difficult to manage adding that the pandemic hampers all efforts while increasing illnesses in the whole society including children. On behalf of the participants Mrs. 'Makhaile Mpholo expressed gratitude over the workshop saying it has provided them with a broad knowledge that will enable them to properly manage childhood illnesses and reduce deaths amongst children below five years. She said they are now prepared to hit hard at the diverse challenges faced in treating and managing illnesses of both infants under fives. Mrs. Mpholo explained that there is shortage of staff in health centers while there is a high number of patients to be attended to, adding that the programme will not be a success without an expected number health personnel in each health center. The workshop was attended by 15 participants representing health centres falling under the Queen II health service area. Similar training workshops are being carried out countrywide.
	source: LENA