Riza C Olfindo
September 2023
Riza C
Olfindo
,
RN
Army Station Hospital, 2ID, PA
Philippine Army Nursing Service, Philippine Army
Taguig City
Philippines

 

 

 

Ms. Olfindo takes it upon herself to monitor TB patients, often extending her efforts beyond regular duty hours to ensure that clients receive the necessary care and prompt treatment while promoting adherence to the prescribed regimen.
As a National Tuberculosis Program (NTP) Coordinator for over a decade, Ms. Riza C. Olfindo, RN, has diligently overseen registered TB patients, including admitted and outpatient military personnel, their dependents, and authorized civilians throughout their treatment journey. In her role as a TB DOTS Nurse, she has significantly contributed to the Unit's achievements by facilitating the TB DOTS Clinic Certification process, transforming the facility from a TB DOTS Referring Hospital to a TB DOTS Providing Hospital. Ms. Olfindo takes it upon herself to monitor TB patients, often extending her efforts beyond regular duty hours to ensure that clients receive the necessary care and prompt treatment while promoting adherence to the prescribed regimen. Additionally, she serves as an HIV counselor, providing essential health education and guidance to high-risk individuals, as well as those who are suspected or diagnosed with the disease. She successfully conducts Pre-HIV Test Counseling for 48 patients, which includes explaining testing procedures, delivering informative lectures, and obtaining consent before the HIV Test. She safeguards clients' confidentiality by ensuring appropriate individuals receive their results during Post HIV Test Counseling. Through her work with these clients, she identifies and implements options for their future, addressing physical, mental, social, reproductive, and various personal concerns. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, even though she was officially exempt from duty due to directives from Higher Headquarters (ECQ STATUS), she exemplified selflessness and courage by continuing to care for COVID patients at the Army Station Hospital of the Philippine Army. This period was undoubtedly challenging for nurses, yet she rose to the occasion, demonstrating the competence and dedication expected of her profession, selflessly serving patients despite the inherent risks.