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Perceptions of the Adequacy of Learning Resources by Undergraduate Medical and Nursing Students in Two Kenyan Public Universities
Mary Njeru,
Simon Kang’ethe,
Arthur Kwena,
Christina Otieno
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
106-109
Received:
14 January 2020
Accepted:
21 February 2020
Published:
6 March 2020
Abstract: High students’ intake in Public Universities has led to reduced learning space and sharing of few teaching/learning resources by both lecturers and students. The purpose of this study was to assess the perceptions of adequacy of learning resources in the MBChB and BScN programmes by students. The study was conducted in Moi University (A) and University of Nairobi (B). The study design was Qualitative Phenomenological study. Purposive sampling was used to select 38 students’ representatives in the MBChB and BScN programmes. Two students' representatives were selected per each academic year. There were four Focus Group Discussion (FGD) groups with 8 to 10 students per FGD. Data was collected using a structured interview guide. FGD results revealed that many students from A perceived that the library had old text books and few students’ computers; and there was little equipment in the skills laboratories. Majority of the students in B reported crowding in classrooms and clinical sites, and needed more computers in the library. Medical students in B also stated that they did not have a skills laboratory of their own but shared one with the School of Nursing. Conclusion: There are Inadequate Learning resources in Public Universities Which are Attributed to High Student Intakes and Financial Constraints
Abstract: High students’ intake in Public Universities has led to reduced learning space and sharing of few teaching/learning resources by both lecturers and students. The purpose of this study was to assess the perceptions of adequacy of learning resources in the MBChB and BScN programmes by students. The study was conducted in Moi University (A) and Univer...
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Accessibility and Utilization of Family Planning Services Among Married Couples in Kogi State, North Central Nigeria
Julius Olugbenga Owoyemi,
Olarewaju Oluseyi Ifatimehin,
Edward Egwuaba,
Patience Iyadi Obaka
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
110-121
Received:
3 February 2020
Accepted:
27 February 2020
Published:
17 March 2020
Abstract: Family Planning serves several purposes, including, the reduction of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates, sustainable population growth rate, improved economy security for both family and community and treatment of infertility among others. Despite these huge benefits, many factors stand to impede on the practice. This cross-sectional community-based survey examined the access and utilization to family planning services (contraceptive use) and the factors serving as impediments to the overall use among married couples in the purposively selected Local Government Area of Kogi State, North Central Nigeria. The survey adopted both qualitative and quantitative methods and the data were analyzed using Frequency counts, Pearson Chi-square and Linear regression statistics in a Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version 25.0) environment. The survey recorded a high level of awareness and access to family planning services across the state; however, this did not translate to its uptake. Factors found to influence this result include, perceived side-effects, friends’ disapproval, age, culture and poor level of education among others. Also, the study found a positive association between couples’ level of awareness, availability of family planning methods/services and husbands’ involvement (Chi-Square Tests (X2)=23.991; df=1; p=0.000 Chi-Square Tests (X2)=63.404; df=6; p=0.000; Improved family health β=0.270, t=6.120, p-value=<0.000; attendance of school by children β=0.180, t=4.229, p-value=<0.000; experience of fewer pregnancy β=0.091, t=2.189, p-value=<0.029; improved socio-economics status and well-being β=0.080, t=2.037 p-value=<0.042) respectively in the uptake of the service in the state. However, the availability of family planning methods was found to be strongly associated (63.4%) with the uptake of the services. Therefore, the low level of utilization of family planning in Kogi State among the (49.0%) may be responsible for about (30.5%) who reported terminating an unwanted pregnancy. Not only does this add to the rate of maternal mortality, but the socio-cultural, economic and psychological impact on the women, their families and the entire community can be quite devastating. Therefore, it was recommended among others, that women in their reproductive age be sensitized on the need to maximize the practice of modern family planning methods. Also, increase on the access to contraceptive methods through joint efforts of government and non-governmental agencies to reduce the unmet needs for contraceptive use in the state are encouraged.
Abstract: Family Planning serves several purposes, including, the reduction of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rates, sustainable population growth rate, improved economy security for both family and community and treatment of infertility among others. Despite these huge benefits, many factors stand to impede on the practice. This cross-sectional...
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Determining the Efficiency of Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test to Diagnose Post Transfusion Malaria in Children Under Five Years Old at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital
Djeneba Bouare,
Owusu Ofori Alex,
Mohammed Abdul-Rahim,
Der Muonir Edmund
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
122-130
Received:
19 February 2020
Accepted:
3 March 2020
Published:
17 March 2020
Abstract: Background: Post-transfusion malaria in children under five years is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The RDTs currently are used to supplement microscopy in the diagnosis of malaria in many endemic countries. However their efficiency as a screening tool for the detection of malaria in donors or in transfusion recipients has not been well evaluated. This study aimed to determine the efficiency of malaria RDT in the detection of post transfusion malaria. Material and methods: The study was conducted from November 2014 to April 2015. Blood samples from 179 patients and their corresponding donors were tested for Plasmodium parasitaemia using RDT and microscopy. The recipients’ blood samples were obtained within 48 hours after transfusion for malaria diagnosis. To determine the incidence of post transfusion malaria, 32 patients were purposefully selected. Their pre-transfusion, post transfusion and donor blood samples were tested for malaria using PCR. Results: Approximately 52% of the study population were within the age group of 0 - < 1 year. Prevalence of malaria in blood donors was 27% by RDT and 7% by microscopy. Prevalence at pre-transfusion was 34% by RDT and 13% by microscopy. Prevalence at post transfusion was 59% by RDT and 4% by microscopy. Incidence of post transfusion malaria by PCR was 57%. The sensitivity of RDT in detecting malaria at post transfusion was 100%. Conclusion: Efficiency of malaria RDT as a tool for malaria diagnosis at post transfusion, among children under five years old is good. Clinicians should consider implementing the use of malaria RDT at post transfusion.
Abstract: Background: Post-transfusion malaria in children under five years is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The RDTs currently are used to supplement microscopy in the diagnosis of malaria in many endemic countries. However their efficiency as a screening tool for the detection of malaria in donors or in transfusion recipients has not b...
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Application of Microlecture Combined with Flipped Classroom to the Teaching of Occupational Safety Protection for Probationer Nurses of Operating Room
Lian Huizhao,
Qian Yuxiu,
Guo Xiaoxia,
Hou Lihuan,
Gao Guie,
Xiao Xiaolu
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
131-135
Received:
1 March 2020
Accepted:
16 March 2020
Published:
8 April 2020
Abstract: Objective: We attempt to explore the effect of microlecture combined with flipped classroom on the teaching of occupational safety protection for probationer nurses of operating room to figure out an effective teaching method to improve probationer nurses’ occupational safety protection. Methods: We grouped probationer nurses who entered the department from March 2018 to March 2019. The first to fifth crews were grouped into the control group (61 nurses), and the sixth to tenth crews were grouped into the observation group (63 nurses). Theoretical assessment model: we tested the nurses using the same test paper at the first day they came to the department and the day before they left the department. Theoretical training model: at the end of the first week of practicing, the teaching group leader gave courses on occupational safety protection to the probationer nurses practicing in the operating room. The teaching method for control group was cramming intensive teaching mode while that for observation group was microlecture combined with flipped classroom in which problem-based group discussion was adopted. Two groups’ satisfaction with the course design was investigated after class. At the fourth week prior to the end of the practicing, we assessed two groups’ skill at conducting seven-step hand-washing method and dealing with sharp instrument injury and counted the occurrence of sharp instrument injury in probationer nurses. Results: Before training, there was no significant difference in the theoretical assessment results between control group and observation group (P>0.05). After training, observation group had better results in theoretical assessment and skill operation than control group with a significant difference (P<0.05). The occurrence of sharp instrument injury of the observation group was 7.9% (5/63) while that of the control group was 21.3% (13/61). There was a significant difference (P=0.035). What’s more, there was a significant difference in the satisfaction with course design between control group and observation group (χ2=51.697, P=0.000). Conclusions: Microlecture in combination with flipped classroom is able to promote internalization and absorption of theoretical knowledge of occupational safety protection so as to improve probationer nurses’ occupational safety protection knowledge and clinical skills. The teaching mode can also reduce the incidence of sharp instrument injury in probationer nurses and thus relieve probationer nurses’ fear of occupational injuries during clinical practice. As a result, the probationer nurses are more active in the theoretical training. Therefore, microlecture combined with flipped classroom is effective on teaching the student nurses of the operating room the occupational safety protection knowledge.
Abstract: Objective: We attempt to explore the effect of microlecture combined with flipped classroom on the teaching of occupational safety protection for probationer nurses of operating room to figure out an effective teaching method to improve probationer nurses’ occupational safety protection. Methods: We grouped probationer nurses who entered the depart...
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Prevalence and Factors Associated with Malnutrition Among Children Aged 6-59 Months in Badbaado Camp in Mogadishu Somalia
Ali Sheikh Mohamed Omer,
Abdirizak Mohamud Yusuf,
Adan Yusuf Mahdi,
Fardowsa Abdikarim Daud
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
136-143
Received:
4 March 2020
Accepted:
23 March 2020
Published:
21 April 2020
Abstract: The purpose was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with malnutrition among children age 6-59 months in Badbaado IDP camp in Mogadishu Somalia. Since 1990 in southern central Somalia, approximately 1.3 million people are internally displaced (IDP) due to war and famine, levels of malnutrition in children under five remain appallingly high at over 15%. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional. Sample size of 406 respondents was calculated using (Kish 1965) formula. Systematic sampling was used to select the households and a child aged 6-59 months. Pre-tested structured questionnaires were used to collect the socio- demographic characteristics of the children and their caretakers, feeding practices and health factors of the children. Anthropometric measurements of 406 children aged 6-59 months were undertaken. The data was captured using Epi Data version 3.0 and analyzed STATA 12. The anthropometric data were analyzed using ENA SMART. Results: The prevalence of stunting and under-weight was 66% and 59.9% respectively, the prevalence of wasting was high 41.6%. Children whose caretaker were employed by public were more likely to be stunted and underweight compared with the children whose caretaker were self-employed (p value=0.0407and 0.0278) respectively. Children who were consumed inadequate food groups were at risk of being stunted adjusted OR 1.93 95%CI 0.97-3.84 (P-value=0.06). Conclusion and recommendation: There is high prevalence of malnutrition (wasting, stunting and underweight) among children in the internally displaced people’s camps in Badbaado Mogadishu Somalia. Children who started complementary feeding after six months, suffered fever, and those who consumed inadequate food groups were more at risk of becoming stunted. The Ministry of Health of Somalia should create awareness sessions using mass media on prevention malnutrition.
Abstract: The purpose was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with malnutrition among children age 6-59 months in Badbaado IDP camp in Mogadishu Somalia. Since 1990 in southern central Somalia, approximately 1.3 million people are internally displaced (IDP) due to war and famine, levels of malnutrition in children under five remain appallingly...
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Community Knowledge and Practice Regarding Ebola Prevention in FCT, Abuja
Helen Adamu,
Samuel Ogundare,
ThankGod Emmanuel Onyiche,
Magdalene Nanvene,
Babajide Daini,
Modupe Fasina
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
144-153
Received:
6 March 2020
Accepted:
26 March 2020
Published:
23 April 2020
Abstract: Reports of Ebola outbreaks in affected communities have been associated with rumors, fear, poor perception on the disease and stigmatization of Ebola survivors in their host communities. The depth of knowledge of Ebola Viral disease (EVD) among community members will influence the making of informed decision regarding risky behavioral practices and attitude to survivors. This study was a cross-sectional study using multistage sampling technique to select a total of 1190 respondents from the two area councils of the Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria. Pre-tested questionnaire with 10-point knowledge score on Ebola, 10 point attitude, 6 point scale on practice and 5 point scale on perception was administered by trained interviewers to respondents. Mean age of respondents was 29.61 ± 7.51years. 97.3% were aware of EVD. Media (81.7%) was respondent’s first source of information on EVD and the most trusted (80.4%). Majority (82.1%) of the respondents had good knowledge of EVD. A good number (83.3%) also showed poor attitude to survivors of Ebola while thirty-eight (3.2%) of respondents had poor practice towards EVD prevention. About 96.3% of respondents had a high perception score. Although Knowledge of Ebola was high, media campaigns needs to be structured and targeted to meet gaps in attitude so as to avoid stigmatization and its attendant consequences by host communities towards Ebola survivors.
Abstract: Reports of Ebola outbreaks in affected communities have been associated with rumors, fear, poor perception on the disease and stigmatization of Ebola survivors in their host communities. The depth of knowledge of Ebola Viral disease (EVD) among community members will influence the making of informed decision regarding risky behavioral practices and...
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Family Planning in Tanzania: A Systematic Review of Published Empirical Literature from 1970s to 2012
Mackfallen Giliadi Anasel
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
154-163
Received:
27 February 2020
Accepted:
10 April 2020
Published:
30 April 2020
Abstract: This article is an output of a systematic review to examine the trend of family planning research in Tanzania. The purpose of the review was to analyse published studies on family planning in the country from 1970 to 2012. The review aimed at examining the focus and key findings of family planning studies conducted during that period in order to identify areas where more research is needed. Searching was first done in Picarta, where a list of articles and abstracts were extracted. Those articles that did not meet the inclusion criteria or not well aligned with the keywords were excluded. This procedure was used in Purple search exploring in PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Enconlit and Business Source Premier. The Scopus search engine was consulted and the same procedures were used to enumerate all articles that met the inclusion criteria. During the review, qualitative approach was used, whereby content analysis was used to identify published peer reviewed articles and reports that address family planning programs in Tanzania. The analysis was done to summarize the main themes from reviewed articles and reports. The findings show that most of the studies reviewed employed quantitative approach using secondary data from various surveys conducted in Tanzania. While many of these studies largely focused on the determinants of contraceptive use and change in behaviour; a few focused on policy issues. With regard to thematic focus, accessibility and perceived quality of services, the impact of mass media advocacy on family planning particularly on contraceptive use were the key themes that featured more often in these studies. The paper concludes that the studies conducted in Tanzania from 1970 to 2012 focused at large on individual family planning behaviour and employed quantitative approach. The review also found that the studies were mostly holistic, analysing the whole country as a single unit of analysis ignoring context variations. Besides, the focus of most of the studies was on the determinants of contraceptive use. The studies were inclined on individual behaviour, with no attention to the institutional arrangements in the provision of family planning services, hence, creating a potential research gap. This study suggests that future studies should focus on policy and programme documents that guide implementation of family planning interventions. Furthermore, disaggregated studies examining regional variations in family planning programme implementation are recommended so as to capture context specific practices and challenges.
Abstract: This article is an output of a systematic review to examine the trend of family planning research in Tanzania. The purpose of the review was to analyse published studies on family planning in the country from 1970 to 2012. The review aimed at examining the focus and key findings of family planning studies conducted during that period in order to id...
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Prevalence and Factors Associated with Thinness and Overweight/Obesity Among Secondary School Adolescents. A Cross-sectional Study
Haddy Jallow-Badjan,
Haddy Tunkara-Bah,
Paul Bass,
Thomas Senghore
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
164-172
Received:
30 March 2020
Accepted:
3 May 2020
Published:
15 May 2020
Abstract: Globally unhealthy lifestyle behaviors among adolescents have become a public health concern, contributing to the obesity epidemic in many parts of the world. In The Gambia, underweight has previously been considered as a significant health problem. However, in recent decades, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has been a growing concern. Thus, we aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors for both thinness and overweight/obesity among school going adolescence in The Gambia. Using a cross-sectional study design, 805 students (268 males, 537 females) aged 13 to 19 from schools in Western Region, The Gambia ware selected using a multi-stage sampling design. BMI-for-age z-scores were used to determine nutritional status. Multinomial logistic regressions models were used to assess the association between multiple factors and BMI-for-age status of adolescents. Our findings show that thinness and overweight/obesity were 13.69% and 7.77% respectively. Factors such as sex (female: adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=3.15, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.43 – 6.93), mother’s education (secondary: aOR=2.86, 95% CI=1.16 – 7.07), physical activity level (sufficiently active: aOR=0.48, 95% CI=0.24 – 0.95) and nighttime sleep duration (<6 hours: aOR=2.53, 95% CI=1.07 – 5.99) were significantly associated with overweight/obesity. In addition, sex (female: aOR=0.34, 95% CI=0.19–0.59) and nighttime sleep duration (<6 hours: aOR=2.92, 95% CI=1.24–6.86) were associated with thinness. The results suggest that the double burden of malnutrition exist in The Gambia and remains a major public health issue among adolescents. This, therefore, underlined the need for nutritional interventions targeting adolescents. Further research involving the entire country may be required to show the national burden.
Abstract: Globally unhealthy lifestyle behaviors among adolescents have become a public health concern, contributing to the obesity epidemic in many parts of the world. In The Gambia, underweight has previously been considered as a significant health problem. However, in recent decades, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has been a growing concern. Thu...
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Gender and Child Nutrition: Implications of Mother’s Education in Malawi
Martin Limbikani Mwale,
Tony Mwenda Kamninga,
Gowokani Chijere Chirwa
Issue:
Volume 6, Issue 3, June 2020
Pages:
173-179
Received:
16 April 2020
Accepted:
3 May 2020
Published:
15 May 2020
Abstract: The objective of this study was to understand how gender gaps in child nutrition vary across different levels of mother’s education. We obtained anthropometric indicators from a secondary and publicly accessible Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS-2014) data. We used height-for-age and stunting as nutrition indicators and gender as the main determinant while splitting the sample by mother’s education. We apply Ordinary Least Squares on the data in Stata 16 to understand if female and male differences in under-five child nutrition differs conditional on the level of education for their mother, while controlling for diverse child, household and community characteristics. Our finding suggests that female child height for age premium increases at high levels of mother’s education and differences in stunting disappear amongst uneducated and highly educated mothers while persisting amongst the middle education levels (primary and secondary educated mothers). We conclude that gendered nutrition gaps are heterogeneous across different levels of mother education. In the case of a rural economy of sub-Sahara (SSA) such as Malawi, female children get the lion’s share of nutrition investment as the education of the mother increases. However, the female nutrition premium reduces with increasing education only when it threatens the male child into nutrition deficiency.
Abstract: The objective of this study was to understand how gender gaps in child nutrition vary across different levels of mother’s education. We obtained anthropometric indicators from a secondary and publicly accessible Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS-2014) data. We used height-for-age and stunting as nutrition indicators and gender as the main det...
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