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December 07, 2006
March of Dimes Health Walk - Bethany's Reflection
The Health Walk was fun and informative. As a DH2 it was informative because we were able to be side by side with colleagues and benefit from their knowledge as well as pass it along to others. I was happy to have an opportunity to discuss key points with health walk participants with the support of instructors and classmates. Participants seemed interested in learning about simple ways to reduce low-birth weight babies and the positive impact that folic acid and good oral health habits can have during a pregnancy.
As a DH2 I was trying to inform participants about simple ways to improve the oral health of not only the people I came in contact with but also their friends and families. Because time was limited with each participant I would ask simple questions which would give me an idea about a good oral habit to promote to each participant individually. Some examples of questions I asked were “Do you have any children? Do you encourage them to brush twice daily? - once in the morning and once in the evening?” I tried to give them informed suggestions while only having just a few minutes with some people. I also asked some people if they sipped on coffee or soda throughout the day and suggested chewing gum with xylitol and gave them sample packs of gum. I also explained how xylitol works and the benefits of chewing throughout the day if you don’t have a chance to brush.
Overall I felt like it was a really good experience, although rushed at times. My colleagues also felt a bit rushed because participants only had a short time at each booth. It could have been the time slot I was able to participate in and next year I would like to come at a time that would possibly allow more time for discussion with each individual. I know that next year I will be even more prepared to participate at the health walk having been through it once and now having a better feel for how it progresses.
Posted by berulu at December 7, 2006 08:44 PM