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Research Article
Assessing the Influence of Behavioural Factors of Community Health Promoters on Use of Community Based Health Information Systems in Selected Counties, Kenya
Susan Njoki Mambo*
,
George Odhiambo-Otieno,
George Ochieng’-Otieno,
Wanja Mwaura-Tenambergen
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
95-110
Received:
17 January 2024
Accepted:
1 February 2024
Published:
28 April 2024
Abstract: Globally, health management information systems (HMIS) in strengthening health systems have gained recognition due to potential of technology to improve access to quality care in underserved communities. In Kenya, the functionality of Community based- Health Management Information System (CBHMIS) currently stands at 55% down from 64% in year 2015. The aim of this paper was to determine the influence of behavioral factors of community units personnel on CBHMIS. As a nested study, with a broader aimt to establish the operational status of CBHMIS and its use in selected counties in Kenya; The main objective of this research was: To establish whether behavioural factors of Community Health Promoters (CHPs) influence CBHMIS use in Kenya. A mixed method design. was adopted, Kiambu, Kajiado and Nairobi counties formed the study location, a target population of 156 active community units was considered to arrive at a total sample of 122 community units and out of 7800CHPs a sample of 366 respondents was drawn. Multistage sampling was used to identify the CUs, and systematic random sampling to identify 366 respondents. Quantitative data tools were semi-structured closed ended questionnaires. Qualitative data tools included observation checklist, Focus Group Discussion and Key Informant Interviews guides. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS to generate univariate and bivariate analysis at p<0.05 significance level; Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis based on key themes generated from the objectives. Results were presented in form of graphs, tables, figures, and narration. This study showed that the use of Community based- Health Management Information System stood at 56.6%. Behavioural factors were found to significantly influence use of Community based- Health Management Information System. Further, of the total variations in the use of Community based- Health Management Information System, behavioral factor explains 13.7% (R2 = .137). Results show that the model was valid (F(1, 363) = 58.579, P = .001) hence the explanatory variable (X2, Behavioral factors) is good in explaining total variations in Use of CbHMIS by community units. This implies that the use of CbHMIS by Community Units (CU) improves significantly when the community units have better behavioural factors. In conclusion, behavioural factors of CHPs have strong and significant influence on the CBHMIS use. Motivation of CHPs is key as a motivator to CBHMIS use, as well as. provision of material support including reporting tools and IEC materials and capacity development technical, computer and electronic reporting skills to enhamce CHP operations and processes.
Abstract: Globally, health management information systems (HMIS) in strengthening health systems have gained recognition due to potential of technology to improve access to quality care in underserved communities. In Kenya, the functionality of Community based- Health Management Information System (CBHMIS) currently stands at 55% down from 64% in year 2015. ...
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Research Article
Implementation of Emergency Preparedness and Response-Rapid Team Program in Niger
Kadri Sani*,
Mahamadou Yacouba Moustapha,
Garba Salifou Mohamed,
Bagouari Adamou,
Ide Amadou Habibatou,
Issiaka Gandou Aboubacar,
Mohamed Abdel Karim,
Elhadji Ibrahim Tassiou,
Hanki Yayé,
Kourouma Mamadou,
Ibrahim Salifou Alkassoum
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
111-118
Received:
17 March 2024
Accepted:
15 April 2024
Published:
28 April 2024
Abstract: Introduction: The WHO’s prompt declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) shepherded an effective coordinated response to contain the epidemic. Objective: The aim of this study is to describe the experiences, challenges, and lessons learned during the Implementation of Emergency Preparedness and Response-Rapid Response Team (EPR-RRT) program. Method: The study used mixed methods approach quantitative and qualitative data from a literature review of WHO AFRO coordination mechanisms and the Niger Public Health Emergency Operational Centre (PHEOC). The study was conducted in the National Public Health Emergency Operational Centre (PHEOC) of Niger during 12 months from September 2022 to September 2023. Results: The implementation of this program began with the evaluation of Niger's capacities and capacity building of teams to prepare, detect and respond to public health emergencies within 24 hours of an alert. The team of multi-disciplinary and multi-sector experts was identified and selected and trained on series of modules training. The team is composed of a total of 50 experts from 6 ONE HEALTH sectoral ministries. The average age is 49.94 (±5.9) years with extremes ranging from 33 to 56 years. The sex ratio is 0.35. The team have acquired the experience of being deployed in 4 regions of the country, 6 districts as part of the response to 6 public health events. Conclusion: The rapid response team has made it possible not only to acquire the technical and operational skills, financial, human and logistical capacities to respond rapidly when a public health emergency occurs.
Abstract: Introduction: The WHO’s prompt declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) shepherded an effective coordinated response to contain the epidemic. Objective: The aim of this study is to describe the experiences, challenges, and lessons learned during the Implementation of Emergency Preparedness and Response-Rapid Respons...
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Research Article
Analysis of Related Risk Factors for Artificial Airway Management in Postoperative Patients with No Throat in Laryngeal Cancer
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
119-124
Received:
30 March 2024
Accepted:
19 April 2024
Published:
28 April 2024
Abstract: Objective: To analyze the relevant factors affecting artificial airway management in postoperative non laryngeal patients with laryngeal cancer. Method: A total of 150 patients who underwent total laryngectomy in a tertiary hospital between January 2020 and January 2023 were selected as the study subjects. Their clinical data were retrospectively analyzed, and they were divided into two groups based on whether they had postoperative artificial airway problems: one group had no airway problems (n=52) and the other group had artificial airway problems (n=98). Conduct univariate analysis on factors that may affect artificial airways, and conduct multivariate logistic regression analysis on factors with statistically significant differences. Results: Among the 150 patients, a total of 98 experienced postoperative artificial airway problems, with an incidence rate of 65.33%. Gender, age, diabetes, tumor stage, wound healing, sputum viscosity after artificial airway, room temperature and humidity, occurrence of multiple drug resistance, and neck lymph node dissection were included in the univariate analysis of the occurrence of artificial airway problems. The results showed that wound healing, sputum viscosity after artificial airway, room temperature and humidity, occurrence of multiple drug resistance were related to the artificial airway problems of laryngocarcinoma patients without larynx after surgery (P<0.05). Four statistically significant single factors, including wound healing, sputum viscosity after artificial airway, room temperature and humidity, and the occurrence of multiple drug resistance, were included in the multivariate logistic regression analysis. The results showed that wound healing, sputum viscosity after artificial airway, and the occurrence of multiple drug resistance were closely related to the occurrence of artificial airway problems in non laryngeal patients after laryngeal cancer surgery, and were independent risk factors (P<0.05). Conclusion: For patients with laryngeal cancer treated with total laryngectomy, wound healing, sputum viscosity after artificial airway, and the occurrence of multidrug resistance are high-risk influencing factors for postoperative artificial airway problems, which should be taken seriously in clinical work.
Abstract: Objective: To analyze the relevant factors affecting artificial airway management in postoperative non laryngeal patients with laryngeal cancer. Method: A total of 150 patients who underwent total laryngectomy in a tertiary hospital between January 2020 and January 2023 were selected as the study subjects. Their clinical data were retrospectively a...
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Research Article
Assessment of Stigma, Violence and Coping Mechanisms Among HIV Infected People Who Inject Drugs in Akwa-Ibom State, Nigeria
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
125-143
Received:
11 March 2024
Accepted:
23 March 2024
Published:
10 May 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.14
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Abstract: People who inject drugs (PWIDs) living with HIV face high levels of stigma, violence, and rape due to their risky lifestyles, potentially facilitating the spread of HIV. This study assessed the level and type of stigma and violence among PWIDs attending Heartland Alliance in Akwa Ibom State and their coping mechanisms. This descriptive cross-sectional study of 442 PWIDs receiving care at four one-stop shops in the state was conducted using mixed methods. Quantitative data were collected through pretested structured questionnaires and an adopted stigma scale, administered by trained research assistants using Computer Assisted Personal Interviewer (CAPI). For qualitative data, one focus group discussion (FGD) was held at each site with 8-10 purposively selected PWIDs, and transcripts were analyzed thematically. The study findings reveals that most respondents were male (78%) with a mean age of 32.7±7 years. Pentazocine use was common (52%), and 18% shared needles, with 15% sharing blood after injections among friends. More than half (58%) missed more than one dose of ARVs in the past week. Perceived stigma (59%) was more common than internal stigma (18%), with predictors being student status, non-disclosure of HIV status, and non-adherence to treatment. PWIDs Physical violence (47.5%) and verbal abuse (37.1%) were prevalent among PWIDs. Female PWIDs had a ninefold higher risk of rape. Coping mechanisms included isolation, increased substance use, battle readiness, and positive reframing. Conclusion: PWIDs face significant levels of stigma, violence, and non-adherence, jeopardizing treatment outcomes and perpetuating STI, HIV, and blood-borne infection transmission. Establishing harm-reduction programs is essential to address these vulnerabilities and the consequences associated with drug use.
Abstract: People who inject drugs (PWIDs) living with HIV face high levels of stigma, violence, and rape due to their risky lifestyles, potentially facilitating the spread of HIV. This study assessed the level and type of stigma and violence among PWIDs attending Heartland Alliance in Akwa Ibom State and their coping mechanisms. This descriptive cross-sectio...
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Research Article
Public Opinion and Attitudes Toward COVID-19 Vaccination Mandates Among Key Populations in Nigeria
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
144-155
Received:
10 April 2024
Accepted:
27 April 2024
Published:
10 May 2024
Abstract: Nigeria exhibits a heterogeneous culture and factors that can significantly impact the formation of public opinions toward implementing vaccination requirements, especially among the marginalized population. Examining the prevailing public sentiment and attitudes of the key population is crucial. The study employed a cross-sectional approach. Data was collected from HALG OSS sites in Cross River, Niger, and Lagos, focusing on HIV seropositive and non-HIV positive clients/program beneficiaries. 321 people were sampled, and the data was analysed descriptively using IBM-SPSS. The study findings reveals that social media is the primary information source (33.1%) and is significantly influenced by popular social media figures (35.0%). Support for vaccine mandates was high for arriving visitors (89.1%) and frontline healthcare workers (85.6%) but lower for other groups. Unvaccinated participants cited various reasons, such as time constraints (20.0%) and perceiving vaccination as a personal choice (20.0%). Encouragingly, 80.0% expressed a future intent to get vaccinated. Among unvaccinated individuals, 60.0% reported changed views on vaccination, with 80.0% considering side effects and vaccine effectiveness information persuasive. Participants trusted local media and the Ministry of Health but held low regard for government and opposition politicians. The majority supported measures like handwashing and improved social distancing to combat COVID-19. In Conclusion, Social media, led by popular personalities, significantly shapes COVID-19 vaccination perceptions among Nigeria’s key populations. Addressing concerns and using credible sources are essential for vaccine acceptance.
Abstract: Nigeria exhibits a heterogeneous culture and factors that can significantly impact the formation of public opinions toward implementing vaccination requirements, especially among the marginalized population. Examining the prevailing public sentiment and attitudes of the key population is crucial. The study employed a cross-sectional approach. Data ...
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Research Article
Evolution of Exclusive Breastfeeding Practices According to Continuous Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS-C) from 2010-2011 to 2019 and Associated Factors in Senegal
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
156-176
Received:
20 March 2024
Accepted:
9 April 2024
Published:
10 May 2024
Abstract: Introduction: The first two years of a child's life are particularly important. Inadequate breastfeeding practices during this period considerably compromise the health, development and survival of infants, children and mothers. Several studies have assessed the impact of breastfeeding on infant mortality. The objectives of our study were to investigate changes in exclusive breastfeeding practices during the first six months of life according to DHS data from 2010-2011 to 2019 and to identify the various associated factors. Methodology: This is a quantitative analysis of secondary data based on cross-sectional data from the DHS from 2010-2011 to 2019 on changes in exclusive breastfeeding practices for infants under six months of age. Our study focused on women aged 15 to 49 years interviewed during the DHS and residing in Senegal at the time of the various surveys who had children under two years of age. Data were collected on exclusive breastfeeding rates in different years, the socio-demographic and gyneco-obstetric characteristics of mothers, and the characteristics of newborn children. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with exclusive breastfeeding. Results: showed that exclusive breastfeeding rates remained below 50% from 2010-11 to 2019. Analysis by region showed a disparity between the different regions. The associated factors were: ethnic group: Wolof are less likely to practice EBF with an adjusted AOR of 0.59 with a CI95: [0.38, 0. 90], maternal literacy: mothers who could not read were less likely to perform EBF with an adjusted AOR of 0.71 and a CI95: [0.53-095], birth order: mothers with 6 or more children were more likely to perform EBF, with an AOR of 3.20 and a CI95: [1.68-6.17], maternal occupation: Working mothers were less likely to practice EBF than non-working mothers, with an AOR of 0.60 and a CI95 [0.46-0.79], access to the media: Mothers with access to the media were less likely to practice assisted fertilization, with an AOR of 0.57 and a CI95: [0.37-0.90] and use of modern contraception: Mothers using modern contraception were less likely to practice exclusive breastfeeding, with an AOR of 0.53 and a CI95: [0.38-0.72]. Conclusion: Despite all the efforts made by the Senegalese government and its technical and financial partners, rates are still low. To strengthen the practice of exclusive breastfeeding, it is important and urgent to design and implement innovative evidence-based interventions covering the different levels of the socio-ecological model (individuals, families, communities and public policies).
Abstract: Introduction: The first two years of a child's life are particularly important. Inadequate breastfeeding practices during this period considerably compromise the health, development and survival of infants, children and mothers. Several studies have assessed the impact of breastfeeding on infant mortality. The objectives of our study were to invest...
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Research Article
Ascending Aortic Stiffness Analysis Using Tissue Doppler Imaging for the Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Stenosis in Suspected Stable Angina: A Retrospective Study
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
177-185
Received:
31 March 2024
Accepted:
27 April 2024
Published:
17 May 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.wjph.20240902.17
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Views:
Abstract: Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) and arterial stiffening may coexist. Stable angina pectoris (SAP) is one of the common types of CAD. However, the association between SAP and aortic stiffness metrics remains poorly understood. Tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) measurement of ascending aorta motion velocity may be used to employed to assess the elastic properties of the great arteries. We hypothesized that non-CAD individuals may exhibit higher. TDI velocities in the ascending aorta. Aim: To explore the correlation between ascending aortic stiffness and SAP using parameters derived from two-dimensional and TDI echocardiography of the ascending aorta. Methods: This study comprised 118 patients with clinically suspected SAP. Two-dimensional echocardiography, TDI, electrocardiogram (ECG), and coronary angiography (CAG) were performed on all patients. Patients with coronary lumen area stenosis ≥70% were categorized as having significant CAD (CAD Group n=57) and were compared with patients without significant CAD (non-CAD Group n=61). Using TDI, aortic systolic velocity (SAo), early diastolic velocity (EAo), and late diastolic velocity (AAo) were measured from the anterior wall of the ascending aorta 3 cm above the aortic cusps in the parasternal long-axis view. Aortic stiffness index (β), aortic distensibility (D), and pressure-strain elastic modulus (Ep) were calculated from aortic diameters measured by two-dimensional M-mode echocardiography and blood pressure obtained by sphygmomanometry. Results: SAo was significantly higher in the non-CAD group (11.70 ±1.53 cm/s vs.12.80 ±2.21 cm/s, p < 0.05). EAo and AAo velocities of ascending aorta were similar in control and CAD groups. Based on the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) for diagnosing non-CAD, the optimal cut-off value of SAo was ≥13.35 cm/s (sensitivity, 85.96%; specificity, 40.98%; area under curve (AUC)=0.64; P<0.05). There was a significant correlation between SAo velocity and β (r=−0.34, P<0.05), D (r=0.32, P<0.05) and Ep (r =−0.29, P<0.05). Conclusions: Arterial stiffness is lower in patients without significant CAD. Measuring SAo of the anterior ascending aorta using TDI echocardiography has good sensitivity but poor specificity in patients without significant coronary artery stenosis in SAP.
Abstract: Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) and arterial stiffening may coexist. Stable angina pectoris (SAP) is one of the common types of CAD. However, the association between SAP and aortic stiffness metrics remains poorly understood. Tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) measurement of ascending aorta motion velocity may be used to employed to assess the ...
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Research Article
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopic Analysis of Heavy Metals in Cancerous Breast Tissues Among Women in Jos, Nigeria
Opeyemi Peter Idowu*,
Oketayo Oyebamiji Oyedele,
Oluwatimilehin Joshua Oluwadare,
Wilfred Nwabueze Igboama,
Olaniyan Suaib Dolapo,
Lawan Ezekiel,
Catherine Ignatius,
Mashor Mbwas Isaac,
Audu Ruth Danbaki,
Adefemi Frank Olasele,
Hamzat Toheeb Tunde,
Bamidele Lateef,
Akinnubi Rufus Temidayo
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
186-193
Received:
4 March 2024
Accepted:
19 March 2024
Published:
24 May 2024
Abstract: Breast cancer is prevalent in northern Nigerian women most especially Jos, Plateau State owing to anthropogenic activities such as solid earth mineral mining. In this study, Atomic Absorption Spectrometry was used to determine the levels of eight heavy metals (Cd, As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Ni and Zn) in cancerous and non-cancerous breast tissues of Jos Nigerian Women. The concentration of heavy metals ranged from 1.08 to 29.34 mg/kg, 0.29 to 10.76 mg/kg, 0.35 to 51.93 mg/kg, 5.15 to 62.93 mg/kg, 11.64 to 51.10 mg/kg, 0.42 to 83.16 mg/kg, 2.08 to 43.07 mg/kg and 1.67 to 71.53 mg/kg for Cd, As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Ni and Zn respectively. Using MATLAB R2016a, significant differences (tv = 0.0041 – 0.0317) existed between the levels of all the heavy metals in cancerous and non-cancerous breast tissues except Fe. At 0.01 level of significance, positive significant correlation existed between Pb and Fe, Pb and Cu, Pb and Fe, Ni and Fe, Cr and Pb, as well as Ni and Cr (r = 0.583 – 0.998) in cancerous breast tissues. Using ANOVA, significant differences also occurred in the levels of these heavy metals in cancerous breast tissues (p = 1.910510×10-26). The relatively high levels of the cancer-induced heavy metals (Cd, As, Cr and Pb) compared with control indicated contamination or exposure to heavy metals which could be the major cause of cancer in these female subjects.
Abstract: Breast cancer is prevalent in northern Nigerian women most especially Jos, Plateau State owing to anthropogenic activities such as solid earth mineral mining. In this study, Atomic Absorption Spectrometry was used to determine the levels of eight heavy metals (Cd, As, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, Ni and Zn) in cancerous and non-cancerous breast tissues of Jos N...
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Research Article
Importance of the Family Environment in the Psychological Support of Hypertensive Patients
Donnet Ervilus*
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
194-198
Received:
14 April 2024
Accepted:
28 April 2024
Published:
24 May 2024
Abstract: This article focuses, from an original angle, on the issue of high blood pressure (hypertension) which represents a major public health challenge in Haiti, particularly in Cap-Haitian, with low normalization despite drug treatment. Lack of family support at the hospital and non-compliance with medical recommendations often contribute to this problem. Furthermore, in the Haitian hospital environment, health professionals place much more emphasis on the physical aspect while ignoring that health involves a biopsychosocial dimension. To carry out this study, we adopted a qualitative approach. With this in mind, three patients, including two women and one man, were recruited. Their age ranges between 40 and 60 years old with a predominance of participants from privileged backgrounds. Semi-structured interviews made it possible to assess compliance with treatment and the quality of the family environment. One of the participants presented poor compliance, highlighting the significant impact of the quality of the family environment on compliance with treatment. The results indicate better compliance among patients from advantaged backgrounds, highlighting the importance of psychological support and compliance with medical recommendations. The findings of this research call for further integration of the family approach into hospital treatment of hypertension to improve therapeutic effectiveness and promote positive outcomes.
Abstract: This article focuses, from an original angle, on the issue of high blood pressure (hypertension) which represents a major public health challenge in Haiti, particularly in Cap-Haitian, with low normalization despite drug treatment. Lack of family support at the hospital and non-compliance with medical recommendations often contribute to this proble...
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Research Article
Men’s Involvement in Wives’ Contraceptive Choices: A Comparative Study in Rural and Urban Communities of Akure South Local Government Area
Ebenezer Obi Daniel*,
Oluseyi Oludamilola Olawale,
Ahmed Mamuda Bello,
Israel Olukayode Popoola,
Olukayode Oladeji Alewi,
Michael Olabode Tomori,
Michael Avwerhota,
Adebanke Adetutu Ogun,
Taiwo Aderemi Popoola,
Aisha Oluwakemi Salami,
Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
199-205
Received:
1 June 2024
Accepted:
21 June 2024
Published:
26 June 2024
Abstract: In rural Nigerian communities, men play a crucial role in family planning decisions, often determining if and how their wives can practice contraception. This study aimed to examine the extent of husbands' influence on their wives' contraceptive choices, comparing rural and urban areas in Akure South local government area. The research included a sample of 360 men, using a researcher-developed questionnaire and interview guide for data collection. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations were used to analyze the data, and chi-square inferential statistics tested the hypothesis at a 0.05 significance level using SPSS version 17. Findings revealed that only 46% of rural respondents participated in family planning practices. Men’s engagement in these activities showed low mean values (2.21, 2.11, 2.25), indicating minimal involvement, primarily due to lack of information (40.5%) and limited contraceptive options (34.8%). Most men used condoms (23.8%), a combination of condoms and withdrawal (27.5%), or vasectomy (13.1%). The study concluded that male participation in family planning was low. To improve this, communities need better access to information, education, and communication. Cultural and religious barriers hindering male involvement in family planning should be addressed, and more male contraceptive options should be made available.
Abstract: In rural Nigerian communities, men play a crucial role in family planning decisions, often determining if and how their wives can practice contraception. This study aimed to examine the extent of husbands' influence on their wives' contraceptive choices, comparing rural and urban areas in Akure South local government area. The research included a s...
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Research Article
Nutritional Practices, Quality of Life and, Health Status of Elderly in Rural Communities in Owo Local Government Area, Ondo State, Nigeria
Ebenezer Obi Daniel*,
Omoniyi Isaac Olanrewaju,
Oluseyi Oludamilola Olawale,
Ahmed Mamuda Bello,
Michael Olabode Tomori,
Michael Avwerhota,
Israel Olukayode Popoola,
Adebanke Adetutu Ogun,
Aisha Oluwakemi Salami,
Olukayode Oladeji Alewi,
Taiwo Aderemi Popoola,
Celestine Emeka Ekwuluo
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
206-224
Received:
2 June 2024
Accepted:
20 June 2024
Published:
26 June 2024
Abstract: The study investigates the nutrition practices, health status, and quality of life of elderly individuals in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. It involves a descriptive cross-sectional design with 346 elderly participants aged 60-90, systematically sampled from six rural communities. Data were collected via structured, interviewer-administered questionnaires on demographics, medical and lifestyle histories, daily activities, health-seeking behaviors, food consumption, and nutritional care practices. Nutritional status and high blood pressure were assessed using anthropometric indices and a digital sphygmomanometer. Key findings indicate that 37.6% of participants were aged 60-64. Significant differences were noted between sexes in socio-demographic variables. Alcohol consumption, tobacco sniffing, and cigarette smoking were reported by 15.3%, 11.0%, and 4.6% respectively. Additionally, 23.1% were on hypertensive drugs and 20.1% were confirmed diabetics. Meal frequency varied, with 16.5% eating less than three times daily and 59.2% eating three times daily. Lunch (58.0%) and breakfast (36.6%) were the most skipped meals, and 15% ate outside the home. Dietary diversity scores revealed 66.5% with medium and 27.5% with good diversity. Significant gender differences were observed in dietary diversity and consumption patterns of cereals, roots, tubers, and fruits. Nutritional care practices and daily living activities scores showed 90.2% and 80.6% with fair practices and good activity scores, respectively, while 46.2% demonstrated good health-seeking behavior. Common health complaints included body and joint pain. Central obesity rates were 33.8% (WC), 30.3% (WHtR), and 30.6% (WHR). Elevated systolic and diastolic blood pressure were found in 36.7% and 23% of participants, respectively. Only 31.2% reported a good quality of life. Significant positive correlations were found between nutritional status, quality of life, nutritional care practices, and functionality. Malnutrition, poor quality of life, and inadequate care practices among the elderly in rural areas highlight a public health challenge requiring targeted interventions.
Abstract: The study investigates the nutrition practices, health status, and quality of life of elderly individuals in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. It involves a descriptive cross-sectional design with 346 elderly participants aged 60-90, systematically sampled from six rural communities. Data were collected via structured, interviewer-administered questionnair...
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Research Article
Managing COVID-19 from the Nurses’ Perspectives at Primary Healthcare Facilities in Maseru Lesotho
Issue:
Volume 9, Issue 2, June 2024
Pages:
225-233
Received:
13 May 2024
Accepted:
5 June 2024
Published:
29 June 2024
Abstract: Background: Nurses are at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19. The modest number of perspectives among healthcare practitioners remained an issue, particularly in developing nations such as Lesotho. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the perspectives of nurses working in the primary healthcare setting on managing COVID-19 in Lesotho. Method: A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data using a structured questionnaire from a conveniently selected sample of nurses. Data were analysed using SPSS, and the results were presented using descriptive and analytic statistics. Results: A total of 120 nurses completed the questionnaire, with a 100% response rate. Very few proportions of nurses received formal training (52.4%) and were taught and trained on the safe and accurate ways of using personal protective equipment (PPE) (21.8%) as a preventative measure. Less than half (36.7%) of the participants could implement guidelines to screen, report a suspected case (32.5%) and manage confirmed cases of COVID-19 (30.8%). The levels of knowledge and practices for the pandemic were moderate during the study. There was a significant correlation between the nurses’ knowledge and practices [X2(442, N=120) =1022.6, p<.05] in the management of COVID-19. Conclusion: The level of perspectives of nurses in Lesotho was moderate regarding the management of COVID-19. Unsatisfactory numbers of nurses were reasonably knowledgeable and capable of implementing pandemic response measures. This study provides the information necessary for health authorities to prioritise training programmes that support nurses during COVID-19 and other similar pandemics.
Abstract: Background: Nurses are at the forefront of the fight against COVID-19. The modest number of perspectives among healthcare practitioners remained an issue, particularly in developing nations such as Lesotho. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the perspectives of nurses working in the primary healthcare setting on managing COVID-19 in Lesotho. Me...
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