CMAM Screener at Unique Care and Support Foundation (CASFOD)

Role Purpose:

The CMAM Screener is responsible for actively finding and screening children under five, and often pregnant and lactating women, for acute malnutrition at the community level. By accurately conducting anthropometric measurements and identifying danger signs, the screener plays a vital role in early detection, ensuring that malnourished individuals are quickly referred to the appropriate CMAM treatment components (Outpatient Therapeutic Program - OTP, Supplementary Feeding Program - SFP, or Stabilization Centre - SC), thereby contributing to reduced morbidity and mortality due to malnutrition.

Key Responsibilities

Active Case Finding and Screening:

• Conduct systematic active case finding for acute malnutrition within communities through door-to-door visits, community gatherings, and routine screenings at designated sites (e.g., health posts, mobile clinics, community centers).
• Perform accurate anthropometric measurements, primarily Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) for children aged 6-59 months and sometimes for pregnant/lactating women.
• Check for the presence of bilateral pitting edema in both children and adults.
• Identify other danger signs of severe acute malnutrition (e.g., poor appetite, vomiting, fever, lethargy) and medical complications.
• Ensure all measurements are taken correctly and according to established protocols and guidelines.

Referral and Follow-up:

• Refer identified cases of acute malnutrition (SAM or MAM) and those with medical complications to the appropriate CMAM component (OTP, SFP, or SC) based on established admission and referral criteria.
• Clearly explain the referral process to caregivers, emphasizing the urgency and importance of seeking immediate treatment.
• Document all referrals and assist with follow-up to ensure referred individuals reach the designated treatment sites.
• Participate in defaulter tracing and follow-up visits for children who miss appointments at the OTP/SFP.

Health Education and Community Mobilization:

• Provide basic health and nutrition education messages to caregivers and community members, focusing on the importance of early detection of malnutrition, proper feeding practices (e.g., IYCF), hygiene, and seeking timely medical care.
• Mobilize community members to participate in screening campaigns and nutrition awareness sessions.
• Address common misconceptions or cultural barriers related to malnutrition and its treatment.
• Maintain a respectful and empathetic attitude towards beneficiaries.

Data Collection and Reporting:

• Accurately record all screening results, referrals, and follow-up actions in designated registers or tools.
• Compile and summarize daily or weekly data on screening activities.
• Submit regular, accurate reports to the immediate supervisor (e.g., Nutrition Assistant or Nutrition Officer).
• Ensure confidentiality of beneficiary information.

Supplies and Equipment Management:

• Ensure the proper use, maintenance, and safekeeping of screening equipment (e.g., MUAC tapes, weighing scales if applicable).
• Monitor the availability of screening materials and report any needs to the supervisor.

Qualifications and Experience:   

• Typically, a secondary school certificate is required.
• A certificate or diploma in Community Health Extension Work (CHEW), Community Nutrition, or a related field is a significant advantage.
• Minimum of 6 months to 1 year of experience in community mobilization, health education, or a similar role, preferably within a health or nutrition program.
• Practical experience in conducting MUAC measurements is often preferred.
• Familiarity with the local context, community structures, and cultural practices in Damboa, Borno State, Nigeria or similar humanitarian settings.
• Experience in basic data recording and reporting.
• Prior training in CMAM guidelines is a strong asset.