Basic Function:
The incumbent is tasked with managing severe acute malnutrition (SAM), both with and without complications, by delivering nutrition rehabilitation for admitted cases and mitigating further decline through the administration of therapeutic feeds and essential medicines—including specialized treatments. Additionally, the role encompasses overseeing health and nutrition counseling initiatives, as well as strengthening the capabilities of Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CAM) assistants.
Oversee and execute key responsibilities vital to organizational success, ensuring alignment with strategic goals while maintaining high standards of performance. This role entails managing a range of duties that include, but are not limited to, project oversight, process optimization, and stakeholder coordination to facilitate seamless operations. Accountability for delivering measurable outcomes, adhering to deadlines, and upholding compliance with established policies and procedures is paramount. Additionally, the position requires fostering collaboration across teams, identifying opportunities for innovation, and contributing to the overall growth and efficiency of the department.
Lead community outreach initiatives, conduct mid-upper arm circumference screenings, and perform active case finding for malnutrition among children under the age of five. Provide Outpatient Therapeutic Program (OTP) services in designated communities and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. Perform defaulter tracing, conduct follow-up visits, and deliver essential health education messages at OTP sites. Identify complications, non-responders, and facilitate two-way referrals to the Stabilization Center (SC) in accordance with established protocols.
Develop the Community Management of Acute Malnutrition (CAM) work plan, analyze malnutrition trends based on admission data, and conduct mortality audits at the OTP. Assist the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) unit in assessments, focus group discussions, and the preparation and submission of timely reports. Ensure accurate documentation of services while monitoring OTP performance and indicators.
Support the effective management of severely acute malnourished (SAM) children with complications at the Stabilization Center (SC). Conduct correct clinical diagnoses, perform comprehensive health assessments, and administer appropriate treatments in line with program protocols. Verify adherence to all criteria, including admission, discharge, and transfer protocols between the OTP and SC.
Conduct daily ward rounds and establish a 24-hour call-duty roster for CAMPS assistants. Perform weekly and monthly physical inventories of nutrition supplies to track stock levels, ensure adequate availability of medical and food resources, and coordinate pre-positioning with logistics. Oversee the preparation of therapeutic milk and food for admitted SAM children and their caregivers.
Collaborate with CAM assistants at the SC to reinforce protocol adherence, ensure accurate referrals to and from the OTP, and monitor treatment compliance. Conduct thorough health checks, including vital signs monitoring, medication administration, and feeding protocols in accordance with established guidelines. Address technical inquiries regarding program admissions and discharges, and submit progress reports promptly.
Maintain and update patient records, including critical care pathway (CCP) cards and OTP follow-up cards, to ensure completeness, accuracy, and continuity of care. Deliver key health and nutrition education messages to beneficiaries based on approved protocols. Compile statistical data on admissions, defaults, cures, absences, and deaths, and draft activity reports.
Support the implementation of Standardized Monitoring and Assessment of Relief and Transition (SMART), Semi-Quantitative Evaluation of Access and Coverage (SQUEAK), and other nutrition surveys at the Local Government Area (L
Oversee and execute supplementary tasks as assigned, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and operational standards. Provide support in various projects and initiatives, maintaining attention to detail and adherence to established timelines. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance efficiency and contribute to continuous improvement efforts. Maintain accurate records, documentation, and reporting facilitating informed decision-making and compliance with relevant policies. Assist in the coordination of resources, schedules, and workflows to optimize productivity and meet key deliverables.
This position encompasses a broad scope of responsibilities, though not exhaustive, and may involve additional related duties as deemed necessary. The employee is required to provide regular updates, effectively communicating progress and accomplishments associated with their assigned tasks.
Please promptly notify HNS of any professional challenges encountered.
Proven expertise and a strong foundation in essential competencies, coupled with the ability to apply specialized skills effectively, are required. Candidates must demonstrate exceptional professional attributes, including adaptability, strong problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to continuous learning, to excel in this role. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are essential, along with a collaborative mindset and the capacity to work independently when necessary.
Commitment to maintaining long-term involvement with the LGA is essential.
Demonstrates adaptability and resilience in challenging and demanding work environments, including the ability to manage extensive walking distances to reach stabilization centers.
Fluent proficiency in both spoken and written local and English languages is required.
Proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders, demonstrating strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Professional experience in a clinical environment is considered advantageous.
Capable of compiling and producing comprehensive weekly and monthly program reports with precision and clarity.
Adaptability and flexibility are essential for effectively managing the daily responsibilities of this role. The ability to adjust to changing priorities and circumstances is crucial for successful performance in this position.
A candidate must meet the following criteria to be considered for this position: a minimum of five years of relevant professional experience in a similar role, a bachelor’s degree in a related field (advanced degrees are a plus), and proficiency in industry-standard software and tools. Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities are essential, along with excellent communication and teamwork skills. The ideal applicant will demonstrate a proven track record of delivering measurable results in previous positions, exhibit adaptability to evolving business needs, and maintain a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Familiarity with regulatory compliance and best practices within the industry is also required.
A Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, coupled with 1 to 3 years of professional experience, is required. Alternatively, an MBBS degree with at least one year of relevant experience is acceptable. Prior involvement with a humanitarian organization is considered a valuable asset.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
1 - 3 years
