Training
The MOPH will coordinate training on use of POCT devices. Trainings will include both technical and systems training and will require the support of the manufacturer and partners.
Training Of Trainers (TOT)
Partners and representatives will give a standardized technical training from regional laboratories. This training will include details on operation of the device, correct sample collection method, trouble shooting, and coordination of repairs and swap-out. MOH and partners will lead systems training for all master trainers. This training will cover the required facility changes necessary for patient flow, documentation practices, and referral to testing.
On-site Facility Trainings
The MOPH, regional representatives and partners will work to coordinate on-site trainings at all facilities receiving a POCT device. Master trainers will be responsible for conducting the trainings in accordance with the plan and curriculum provided by MOPH. Facility trainings will be conducted according to the following guidelines:
– Facility trainings will be on-site and will occur over 2 days
– Facility trainings will occur at the same time as placement of the POCT device with adequate reagents and specimen collection supplies at the facility
– The aim of trainings will be to ensure all facilities follow technical and systems SOPs as
established by the manufacturer and MOPH.
– At least two (and generally three or more) operators at each facility will be trained on technical operation of the device. These operators will need to be certified according to the standards outlined in ‘Operator Certification’.
– Facility leadership and key staff will be brought together for a systems training. This training should include the facility director, the clinician responsible for ART initiation, laboratory personnel, key ART nurses, and the POCT operators.
Systems training will include the following elements but not limited to:
– Adjustment of patient flow to ensure patients receive same-day test results and device utilization is maximized
– Data management – ensuring all patient results are recorded Sustainability – managing stock, ordering for new supplies, and coordinating repairs
– During the first day of training, the trainer will cover the key technical and systems curriculum, and during the second day the trainer will work with facility staff to implement the lessons learnt
– The device manufacturer will provide all technical training materials and job aides
– MOH and partners, in coordination with the Regional delegations, will provide systems training materials and job aides
– In the initial implementation phase and until subsequent evaluations of device field performance and personnel competency indicate otherwise, POCT devices will be placed in laboratories or health care facilities. In large facilities, however, they may be placed in
VCT settings.
Quality Assurance
Quality assurance program for the POC machine will use the following strategy:
– Internal control materials: Once opened, the internal quality control materials can be used for six months. Laboratories will use these controls by running the normal and low beads once daily before the operator begins running samples on the machine.
– External Quality Assessment: The POC device is compatible with the EQA scheme established by the National Laboratory System at the MOPH. All facilities receiving a POCT device will be enrolled in the national EQA program.
– Strong Supportive Supervision: Device operators’ use of the equipment and sample collection technique should be monitored through scheduled supervision by the regional and sub-regional laboratories and regional hospitals (for those regions that do have regional laboratories). Master trainers should conduct the supportive supervision.