Lymphatic Filariasis in Children in Haiti

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Nursing Practice

Background:

• Lymphatic filariasis is a neglected tropical disease requiring inter-professional collaboration for effective management.
• Global health initiatives face challenges in underserved areas, necessitating adaptable and skilled healthcare professionals.

Observation:

• Nurses and advanced practice nurses utilized evidence-based practice and assessment skills in a resource-limited setting.
• The case involved a child presenting with symptoms indicative of lymphatic filariasis.

Findings:

• The inter-professional team successfully assessed, diagnosed, and initiated treatment for pediatric lymphatic filariasis.
• Key lessons were learned regarding nursing interventions for parasitic infections in a global health context.

Implications:

• Findings underscore the critical role of nurses in diagnosing and managing neglected tropical diseases like lymphatic filariasis.
• The study provides a model for nursing education and leadership in sustainable global health outreach programs.
• This experience can inform curriculum development for nursing and nurse practitioner students involved in medical missions.