Elvis Djanduh Makafui

First Community Service

​My First community service experience at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, Central Region, specifically within the medical imaging department, took place on 24 April 2024.

During my time at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, I had the opportunity to work closely with patients, particularly those undergoing x-ray diagnostic examinations, including CT scans. Through my interactions with these patients, I observed that many of them harbored fears and misconceptions about the potential dangers of x-rays and the use of diagnostic machines. These fears often led to apprehension and reluctance to undergo necessary medical procedures.

In my role, I assisted patients in preparing for their x-ray examinations, with a focus on CT scans. I provided them with information about the procedure, reassured them about the safety measures in place, and addressed any concerns or questions they had. By offering guidance and support, I aimed to alleviate their anxieties and encourage them to proceed with the examination for their own well-being.

Furthermore, I collaborated closely with other healthcare professionals within the medical imaging department to ensure that patients received the highest standard of care. Whether it was assisting during examinations or providing post-examination support and reassurance, I worked diligently alongside the medical team to prioritize the needs and comfort of the patients.

Overall, my experience at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital was incredibly rewarding. Not only did I have the opportunity to contribute positively to the well-being of patients, but I also gained invaluable insights into the challenges and complexities of healthcare delivery in our community.

I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity to engage in this meaningful community service experience, and I am committed to continuing my efforts to make a positive impact in the future.

Thank you for your continued support and for providing me with the opportunity to serve my community.

Second Community Service

​As part of my ongoing commitment to fulfilling the community service obligations as a JEQ scholar, I undertook an awareness campaign focused on kidney health within my community in Oshiyie - Accra on the 29th of April 2024. This initiative was inspired by the commendable work of fellow JEQ scholar Samuel Coleman, who previously addressed this critical issue in his community.

Objective:

The main goal of my project was to educate community members on the causes and prevention of acute kidney injury, a condition that can escalate into chronic kidney disease necessitating expensive and life-sustaining treatments such as dialysis. I found this topic very important to talk about due to the sudden rise in kidney related health issues taking a lot of lives.

Activity Details:

I conducted a door-to-door awareness campaign where I engaged directly with the residents of Oshiyie. During these interactions, I shared vital information about kidney health, focusing particularly on the importance of early recognition and preventive strategies against kidney disease.

Key Points Addressed:

Firstly, I introduced to them the functions of the kidney and the consequences of having a damaged kidney. I proceeded to talk about the causes and preventive measures of Kidney diseases as well as some treatment therapies.

1. Causes of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI):

Dehydration: Inadequate water intake can lead to reduced kidney function.

High Blood Pressure: Uncontrolled blood pressure can cause damage to the kidneys over time.

Diabetes: Poorly managed diabetes can lead to high blood sugar levels, which harm kidney tissues.

Overuse of Painkillers and Other Medications:** Certain medications, especially non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can harm kidney tissues and impair their function when used excessively.

Smoking: Smoking can impair blood flow to the kidneys and worsen existing kidney conditions

Obesity: Excess weight puts strain on the kidneys and increases the risk of developing kidney disease

2. Prevention Tips:

Hydration: Encouraged drinking at least 8 glasses of water daily to help kidneys flush out sodium,  urea, and toxins from the body.

Healthy Diet: Promoted a diet low in sodium, processed meats, and other kidney-damaging foods.

Regular Exercise:  Discussed how regular physical activity helps maintain optimal blood pressure and sugar levels, which are crucial for kidney health.

Regular Medical Checkups:** Stressed the importance of regular checkups that help detect early signs of kidney stress or damage, allowing for timely intervention.

Impact and Community Feedback:

The campaign was met with appreciative responses from the community. Many residents were previously unaware of how lifestyle choices could impact their kidney health. The direct engagement provided them with actionable information that could lead to improved health outcomes. Several community members requested further information and expressed interest in additional awareness on the topic.

Third Community Service

​I am writing to provide you with a detailed account of my third community service initiative I conducted as part of my obligations as a JEQ Foundation scholarship recipient. On May 10th, 2024, I had the privilege of organizing and leading a session on personal hygiene, with a specific focus on oral health, at Glorious Victory School in Bortianor.

Introduction:

The objective of the community service initiative was to educate the pupils of Glorious Victory School about the importance of personal hygiene, with an emphasis on oral health practices. In this report, I will discuss the activities conducted during the session and provide insights into how to maintain good oral health.

Activities:

The community service session began with a presentation on the significance of oral hygiene. I highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy teeth and gums, emphasizing that good oral health contributes to overall well-being. The presentation covered several key aspects of maintaining good oral hygiene, including:

1. Brushing Technique: I demonstrated the proper technique for brushing teeth, emphasizing the importance of brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. I stressed the need to brush for at least two minutes, ensuring that all surfaces of the teeth are thoroughly cleaned.

2. Flossing: I explained the importance of flossing in removing plaque and food particles from between teeth and along the gum line. I demonstrated the correct technique for flossing and encouraged the students to incorporate flossing into their daily oral care routine.

3. Diet and Oral Health: I discussed the relationship between diet and oral health, highlighting the importance of limiting sugary snacks and beverages that can contribute to tooth decay. I encouraged the students to consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products for healthy teeth and gums.

4. Regular Dental Check-ups: I emphasized the importance of regular dental check-ups for maintaining optimal oral health.

Outcome:

The community service session was well-received by both the students and the faculty of Glorious Victory School. The students showed great interest and enthusiasm in learning about oral health practices. They actively participated in the interactive activities and asked insightful questions.