Welcome to the dynamic world of SJ Nursing and Midwifery Africa, an international open-access peer-reviewed Journal with both Online (ISSN:3006-9068) and Print ( 3006-905X) medium brought to you by SJC Publishers Company Limited. In the ever-evolving field of healthcare, particularly in Africa, staying abreast of the latest developments in nursing and midwifery is crucial. SJ Nursing and Midwifery Africa aims to be your trusted source, providing comprehensive insights and knowledge to professionals, educators, and enthusiasts in the realm of healthcare. SJ Nursing and Midwifery Africa is a platform designed to empower healthcare professionals with knowledge, foster collaboration, and inspire positive change in the delivery of nursing and midwifery care across Africa. Join us on this journey of continuous learning and professional growth as we strive to elevate the standards of healthcare on the continent. Aim and Scope: Within the pages of SJ Nursing and Midwifery Africa, you will find a diverse array of subjects that we accept for the spectrum of nursing and midwifery. These encompass, but are not limited to; Clinical Nursing: Explore the latest advancements in clinical practices, patient care, and nursing interventions. We invite Articles and research papers to delve into topics such as critical care, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, and more. Midwifery and Women’s Health: Delve into the intricate world of midwifery with a focus on maternal and newborn health. Our publication addresses issues related to prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, and reproductive health. Community health nursing: Uncover the role of nursing in community health, public health initiatives, and the promotion of wellness at the grassroots level. This section emphasizes preventive care and health education. Nursing Education: Stay informed about the latest trends and innovations in nursing education. Discover effective teaching methodologies, curriculum development, and strategies for preparing the next generation of nursing professionals. Research and Evidence-based Practices: Embrace the spirit of inquiry with articles on nursing research, evidence-based practices, and the integration of research findings into everyday healthcare settings. Leadership and Management in Nursing: Navigate the complexities of healthcare administration, leadership, and management. Learn about the skills and competencies necessary for effective nursing leadership.
COMMUNITY AND HEALTH FACILITY-RELATED FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE UTILIZATION OF VOLUNTARY COUNSELLING AND TESTING AMONG YOUTH AT KAKUMIRO HEALTH CENTRE IV, KAKUMIRO DISTRICT. A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background The utilization of voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) services is essential for early detection and management of HIV/AIDS, particularly among youth, a demographic at high risk of infection. Despite efforts to increase accessibility, the uptake of VCT services remains low in many communities. Various factors within the community and healthcare settings can influence youth engagement with these services. This study aims to determine community and health facility factors that influence the utilization of voluntary counseling and testing among youth at Kakumiro Health Centre IV, Kakumiro District. Methodology The study used a descriptive cross-sectional design that employed quantitative data collection methods. A simple random sampling method selected a sample size of 30 respondents. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, and results were analyzed and presented in tables, graphs, and pie charts using Microsoft Excel 2016. Results Community-related factors were; 56.7% reported that HIV patients are stigmatized in communities, 46.7% reported that their cultural leaders were unbothered about VCT utilization and 43.3% were discouraged by friends from utilizing VCT services. Health facility-related factors were; 56.7% were not advised by health workers to use VCT services, 60% reported that health workers did not keep health secretes and 73.3% reported that the distance to health facility was long. Conclusion The study concluded that community-related factors and health facility-related factors were negatively influencing the utilization of VCT services. Recommendation Stigmatization and isolation of HIV-positive patients should be avoided to reduce on fears youth have towards VCT services.
Copyright (c) 2025 JOHN PETER KWIZERA , ROGERS ISABIRYE (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS INFLUENCING MENSTRUAL HYGIENE MANAGEMENT AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN LUBAGA GIRLS’ SECONDARY SCHOOL, LUBAGA DIVISION KAMPALA. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is the “use of clean menstrual materials to absorb blood and can be changed in privacy as necessary for the duration of the menstruation period. The study aims to identify factors influencing menstrual hygiene management among adolescents in Lubaga Girls’ Secondary School, Lubaga Division Kampala. Methodology A cross-sectional study design employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches to data collection. The study population for this study was adolescent girls studying at Lubaga Girls’ Secondary School. The sampling criteria for this study was purposive sampling. Results The majority 62(64%) of the respondents were in the age bracket of 17-19 years and the minority 12(13%) were between the age of 13-14 years. The majority 66(69%) were in between S.5 and S.6 classes while the minority 10(10%) were in S.1 and S.2. 66(69%) mentioned 2 times, 19(20%) mentioned 3 times, and 11(11%) raised once a day when asked the times a menstruating girl should take a bath. The majority 51(53%) knew that used menstrual materials were disposed of outside the house, 20(21%) said in the rubbish pit, 15(16%) in the latrine while 10(10%) knew that used menstrual materials are burnt. Conclusion Adolescents in Lubaga Girl’s Secondary School had inadequate knowledge of MHM, poor MHM practices, and the availability of menstrual products as a determinant in MHM. Recommendation There is a need for the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Education and Sports together with the Ministry of Health to improve the privacy of girls, access to clean water, and provide sanitary pads in schools to facilitate their menstrual hygiene management.
Copyright (c) 2025 Beatrice Laker, Teddy Ssemambo Nassanga, JaneFrances Namuddu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
INDIVIDUAL FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO LOW BACK PAIN AMONG NURSES AT ST. PETER’S HEALTH CENTRE III BUSIBO IN LWENGO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Low back pain is a major occupational health problem and also one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal disorders, especially among nurses with significant activity limitation, functional disability, job absenteeism, and huge economic burden. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study with quantitative methods of data collection was employed which involved 40 respondents selected by convenient sampling method. Data was collected using pre-tested questionnaires. Results The majority of the respondents 19(48%) were aged between 26-35 years, majority of the respondents 20(50%) were Catholics, majority of the respondents 24(60%) were married, majority of the respondents 22(55%) had up to certificate level of nursing. Manual lifting of patients 38(95%), more than 5 years of working experience 26(65%), and long work hours 24(60%) contributed to low back pain among nurses. Conclusion Factors such as being female, manual lifting of patients, more than 5 years of working experience, and long work hours, contributed to low back pain among nurses. Recommendation Group exercises should be encouraged in the prevention and long-term management of low back pain.
Copyright (c) 2025 Velonic Twesiimire , Kibuuka Jacob Usuo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE OF PARTICIPANTS ABOUT VOLUNTARY MEDICAL MALE CIRCUMCISION AMONG MEN ATTENDING NAKIVALE HC III ISINGIRO. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Background: Male circumcision should be delivered as part of a minimum package that includes information about risks and benefits, counseling on safer sexual practices, access to HIV testing services and condoms, and management of sexually transmitted infections. The study aims to assess the knowledge of participants about voluntary medical male circumcision. Methodology: A cross-sectional study employing quantitative measures. The study involved adult males who attend healthcare services at Nakivale Health Center III in the age bracket of 15 to 50 years. The data was exported to the IBM statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 software for analysis. Data was analyzed using percentages and frequencies for univariate and Chi-square for bivariate analysis. Results: The majority of the participants had attained a primary level of education (42.2%) and the least had tertiary education 13(9.4%). 44(31.9%) of the participants were aware of age to be circumcised 89(64.5%). 74(53.6%) participants mentioned that voluntary Medical Male Circumcision services reduce sexual pleasure. 67(48.6%) of the participants indicated that a health facility is the safest place with VMMC services. 67(48.6%) mentioned keeping the hygiene benefits of Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision. (32.6%) expected duration a male who underwent Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision takes to heal is between 4 to 6 weeks. 78(56.6%) indicated that the Age for a male to be circumcised is childhood and early adulthood. Conclusion: Knowledge about the right age of circumcision, the right hygiene measure, and the expected duration of healing significantly influenced the uptake of voluntary medical male circumcision among men attending Nakivale HC III Isingiro. Recommendations: Delivery of comprehensive Knowledge about safe male circumcision should be rolled out to the different community stakeholders including local leaders and village health team participation.
Section of Research and Evidence-based Practices
Copyright (c) 2024 Felix Muhumuza, Andrew Natwijuka, Anne Tweheyo Otwine (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS AFFECTING VOLUNTARY BLOOD DONATION AMONG COMMUNITY MEMBERS AGED (19-45) YEARS IN BBIINA ZONE A, KAMPALA DISTRICT. ACROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background. Globally, 10.7 million blood donations are registered from unpaid donors though it is still low, responsible for blood scarcity leading to death of patients and pregnant mothers. This study was to assess the factors affecting voluntary blood donation among community members aged 19 to 45 years in Bbiina Zone A, Kampala district Methodology. A sectional descriptive study design utilizing a quantitative data collection method was used among 70 community members aged 19 to 45 years who were randomly sampled. Data was collected using a pretested questionnaire analysed using Microsoft Office and presented as frequency tables, graphs, and pie charts. Results. Most of the respondents 34(48.6%) were aged between 25-30 years, 40 (57.1%) of the respondents had a secondary education level and 30(42.9%) of the respondents were Catholics. 68(97%) of the participants were aware of voluntary blood donation, 58(83%) knew its side effects, 44(62.9%) reported that their culture allowed them to donate blood, 67(93%) said they easily accessed blood donation centres and 38(54%) did not get support from their family members regarding blood donation. Conclusion. Respondents reported fears about voluntary blood donation side effects, fears about the activity, and lack of support from families acted as hindrances to voluntary blood donation. Recommendations. Relevant bodies should prioritize community sensitization about voluntary blood donation, ensure the availability and accessibility of blood donation services and centres, and involve local leaders in voluntary blood donation activity.
Copyright (c) 2024 Shine Nuwasiima, Patrick Ssendugga (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO OPEN DEFECATION AMONG RESIDENTS OF TOKOKUL CELL KWEEN WARD IN EAST DIVISION, KAPCHORWA MUNICIPALITY. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Open defecation is a critical public health issue, particularly in low-income and rural settings, where inadequate sanitation facilities and lack of hygiene education contribute to its prevalence. This practice poses significant health risks, including the spread of infectious diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid, which can have severe consequences for community health and well-being. This study aims to identify the demographic factors contributing to open defecation among community members of Tukokur Cell Kween Ward in East Division, Kapchorwa Municipality. Methodology A cross-sectional study using a quantitative approach was employed, with data collected from 80 respondents using structured questionnaires and analyzed descriptively. Results The majority of respondents were female (68.8%) and the minority 31.20% were males, half were aged between 19-30 years (50%), indicating a youthful population. Nearly half (47.5%) were predominantly Anglican, with over half of respondents reporting being divorced (56.3%); the Sabin tribe had half of the number 37.6 (47%) while the Bagisu tribe had the smallest number 8 (10%) of the respondents. Conclusion Demographically, most respondents were female, and the population was predominantly young. A significant portion identified as Anglican, and more than half were married. Recommendation Empower local communities by establishing community-led sanitation committees, comprising members responsible for overseeing maintenance activities of sanitation facilities and promoting hygiene education initiatives tailored to local needs.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sande Jacob, Isabirye Rogers (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES ON MENSTRUAL HYGIENE MANAGEMENT AMONG ADOLESCENTS IN LUBAGA GIRLS’ SECONDARY SCHOOL, LUBAGA DIVISION KAMPALA. ACROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background. Menstrual hygiene management continues to be a serious challenge among adolescent girls in Uganda. The purpose of this study was to assess knowledge and practices on menstrual hygiene management among adolescents in Lubaga Girls’ Secondary School. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was used involving 96 adolescents. A purposive sampling procedure was used to select the respondents and the researcher administered a questionnaire for collecting data which was sorted, coded, and exported to SPSS for analysis. Analyzed data was presented in figures and tables reflecting frequencies and percentages. Results: 62(64%) of the respondents were aged (17-19) years 66(69%) of the respondents were in between S.5 and S.6 classes, 40(41%) of the respondents knew about menstrual hygiene management (MHM) as practical strategies for coping with monthly periods,50(52%) described MHM as use of clean materials to absorb or collect menstrual blood. On practices,66(69%) knew that a menstruating girl should take a bath 2 times a day while 66(69%) knew that changing used materials should be done 2 times a day, and 51(53%) knew that used materials are disposed of anywhere outside the compound,52(54%) used old pieces of clothes. Conclusion: Adolescent girls had inadequate knowledge regarding MHM and poor MHM practices. Recommendations: The government through the Ministry of Education and Sports should incorporate Menstrual Hygiene Management in the school curriculum and this would improve the Menstrual Hygiene Management of adolescent girls
Copyright (c) 2024 BEATRICE LAKER , Sr. Teddy Nassanga Ssemambo (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIOR AMONG PATIENTS AGED ABOVE 18 YEARS ATTENDING KIBAALE HEALTH CENTRE IV, KIBAALE DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: In Uganda, 19% of people suffer from illnesses monthly but 17% of them do not seek health care services with 21% practicing self-medication. These practices have contributed to a persistently high mortality rate of 10.2 deaths per 1000 population. This study was intended to assess the determinants of health-seeking behavior among patients above 18 years attending Kibaale health center IV, in Kibaale district. Methodology: The study used a cross-sectional descriptive study design that employed quantitative data collection methods. A sample size of 30 respondents who were selected using a simple random method was used. Questionnaires were used to obtain data from respondents which was presented in the form of tables, pie charts, and graphs using Microsoft Excel program. Results: Individual determinants were, 13(43.3%) were aged 46 – 60 years, 11(36.7%) had attained primary education, 28(93.3%) did not own a medical insurance and 19(63.3%) had long time illness. Socio-cultural determinants ranged from; 19(63.3%) being recommended to use traditional medicine by their cultures, 19(63.3%) being encouraged by their religious leaders to seek medical help to treat illnesses and 17(56.7%) having motorcycles as means of transporting sick individuals to the health center. With regards to health facility-related determinants; 25(83.3%) reported unavailability of drugs, 15(50%) waited for more than 2 hours before receiving medical care and 13(43.3%) reported lack of privacy. Conclusion: The health facility characteristics and socio-cultural norms and teachings greatly hindered the health-seeking behavior as compared to individual determinants. Recommendation: Health workers need to sensitize communities on the need to seek health care services even for minor illnesses as this could promote utilization of services by individuals without chronic illnesses.
Copyright (c) 2024 CHRISTINE NANYONYI, SR. JANE FRANCIS NAMUKWAYA (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS INFLUENCING HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIORS FOR CHILD HEALTH CARE SERVICES AMONG MOTHERS AT KAWAALA HEALTH CENTRE IV, KAMPALA DISTRICT. A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background This study aims to identify the factors influencing health-seeking behaviors for child health care services among mothers at Kawaala Health Centre IV, Kampala District. Methodology The study used a descriptive – cross-sectional study design that involved a quantitative data collection method and 30 mothers were selected using a simple random sampling method. Structured researcher-administered questionnaires were used to collect data that was analyzed using Microsoft Excel program 2016 for presentation into tables, graphs, and pie charts. Results This study identified Caretaker, Socio-Economic, and Health Facility Factors as those that influenced health-seeking behaviors for child health care services among mothers at Kawaala Health Centre IV, Kampala District. The study results showed that caretaker-related factors comprised; 76.7% practiced self–medication, 63.3% never had time to seek for child health care services. Socio-economic factors were; 50% were self – employed 56.7% were not supported by a partner and 83.3% knew that herbal medicine is the culturally recommended treatment for childhood illnesses. Health facility-related factors included; 70% reported absence of drugs at the health facility, 73.3% reported that health workers were rude and 50% had waited for more than 3 hours before receiving services. Conclusion Caretaker-related factors, socio-economic and health facility-related factors were influencing the poor health-seeking behaviors for child health care services. Recommendation It is therefore recommended that stakeholders should join hands to teach the public about the need to seek child health care services as well as improve the quality of child health care services.
Caretaker Socio-Economic and Health Facility Factors
Copyright (c) 2024 IRENE AYAO, Mr Donatus Kimera, Jane Frances Namuddu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF PREGNANT MOTHERS TOWARDS THE NEW GOAL ORIENTED ANTENATAL CARE SERVICES AT SOROTI REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL, SOROTI CITY. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of pregnant mothers towards the new goal-oriented antenatal care services at Soroti Regional Referral Hospital, Soroti City. Methodology The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive design and thus quantitative methods of data collection which involved a self-administered questionnaire to collect data from a sample of 30 respondents who were sampled using a simple random sampling method. Data was collected from respondents after seeking consent from them analyzed and entered manually into the computer using Microsoft Excel Office programs 2016 which presented it in the form of tables, graphics, and pie-charts. Results Regarding knowledge, the majority 24(80%) of the respondents mentioned that they had never heard about goal-oriented antenatal care and 18(60%) of the respondents mentioned that one should attend goal-oriented antenatal care 1 to 2 times. Concerning attitude, 21(70%) agreed that one can give birth to a healthy baby even when they have not attended the new goal-oriented antenatal care services, and 15(50%) were not sure that early goal-oriented antenatal care booking is good practice in pregnancy. Regarding the practice, 27(90%) did practice goal-oriented antenatal care during pregnancy, 2(66.7%) mentioned that they get goal-oriented antenatal services from clinics and 17(56%) were not willing to attend all the 8 required goal-reoriented antenatal visits during your pregnancy. Conclusion The findings of this study indicate that there is a lack of knowledge and low utilization of goal-oriented antenatal care services among pregnant women in Soroti City. Recommendation The Ministry of Health should conduct health education and awareness campaigns to sensitize pregnant women about the importance of goal-oriented antenatal care services.
Copyright (c) 2024 KEVIN ASIO, Barbara Kansiime Akankunda (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
EXPLORING CHALLENGES FACED BY HEALTH WORKERS DURING PREVENTION OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES AT KABALE REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Infectious diseases continue to be a global public health concern, affecting millions of individuals each year. HCWs are still challenged while working to prevent contagious diseases, thus, this study seeks to identify the challenges faced by health workers during preventing infectious diseases in Kabale Regional Referral Hospital. Methodology Employing a cross-sectional study design, the research diligently collected data through structured questionnaires distributed among 29 participants, resulting in an impressive 96.7% response rate. Results (75.9%) of HCWs possess a minimum of a nursing certificate, and a significant majority (86.2%) are enrolled nurses, 82.8% of respondents encountered obstacles in their IPC endeavors. Among the identified challenges, limited access to personal protective equipment (44.8%) emerges as a predominant issue, accompanied by concerns such as inadequate training programs (13.8%) and suboptimal adherence to established protocols (31%). Despite HCWs exhibiting commendable knowledge (86.2%) and practices in infectious disease prevention, the study underscores critical challenges, including insufficient resources, infrastructure limitations, and perceived inadequacies in leadership effectiveness, with 37.9% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction with the hospital's leadership in addressing infectious disease prevention challenges. Conclusion The prevalence of challenges in Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) is evident, with more than half of respondents acknowledging the presence of obstacles. Key challenges identified include inadequate training programs, limited access to personal protective equipment (PPE), poor adherence to established protocols, and insufficient awareness about infectious diseases. Recommendation Hospitals should prioritize ensuring a consistent supply of PPE and enhance accessibility to handwashing facilities and sanitizers. Communication channels regarding IPC guidelines should be strengthened through regular updates, training sessions, and feedback mechanisms. Leadership training programs are also needed to engage with healthcare workers, address concerns, and foster a collaborative approach to overcoming challenges in infectious disease prevention.
Copyright (c) 2024 CHARITY ASIIMWE, Sr. Patience Ddumba (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH AWARENESS OF NEONATAL DANGER SIGNS AMONG WOMEN ATTENDING A POSTNATAL CLINIC AT KANGOLE HC IV APAK DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background The ability to clinically recognize danger signs in neonates is an important step in reducing neonatal morbidity and mortality rates. The study assesses the factors associated with awareness of neonatal danger signs among women attending a postnatal clinic at Kangole HC IV Apak district. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study utilizing the quantitative method of data collection. Results The significant factor associated with awareness of neonatal danger signs was the provision of health education by health workers. Fever was known by the majority 8(27%) of the respondents, followed by difficulty in breathing, 4(17%); convulsions, 4(13%); anorexia, 3(10%); vomiting, 2(7%); and refusal to breast feed, 2(7%). the majority of 28(93%) of the respondents attended antenatal to be health educated on the neonatal danger signs while a few 2(7%) did not. Of 25(83%) respondents said that they delivered the baby from the health facility to get health workers' advice on care and identifying neonatal danger signs. The majority 17(57%) of the respondents said that their families were extended and that the funds were insufficient to cater for health services to get information from the hospital about neonatal danger signs, while a few 13(43%) said that they were not. The majority 20(67%) of the respondents resided in rural areas while a few 10(33%) resided in urban areas. Conclusion Exposure to knowledge and awareness of neonatal danger signs was limited to health centers and has not been largely rolled out to the general population yet the fight against neonatal mortality should involve combined efforts of both mothers, their families, and the general public. Recommendation The Ministry of Health should conduct radio/television talk shows that include panels of local leaders and technical experts discussing the importance of facility delivery for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes and prevention of neonatal danger signs.
Copyright (c) 2024 CHRISTINE AMOLLO, Patience Ddumba (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF FOOD HANDLERS TOWARDS FOOD HYGIENE AT KINAAWA HIGH SCHOOL KAWEMPE CAMPUS, WAKISO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background The study aims to assess the Knowledge, attitude, and practices of food handlers towards food hygiene at Kinaawa High School Kawempe campus, Wakiso District. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study design which utilized quantitative methods of data collection from 40 respondents. Results Respondents were well informed and had the right attitudes and good food handling practices. Respondents had adequate knowledge and recommendable practices but with varying attitudes about food handling. 30(75.0%) knew hand washing as a key food hygiene while 3(7.5%) knew either separating cutting boards and utensils or proper cleaning and sanitizing procedures as the key practices in food hygiene. 30(75%) had never had any training sessions about food handling, whereas only 2(5%) got them always. 34(85%) were conversant with cleaning procedures for kitchen and equipment while 6(15%) were not. 29(72.5%) agreed that food handlers themselves were the ones responsible for maintaining food safety whereas 1(2.5%) agreed that their supervisors were responsible for maintaining food safety 34(85.0%) agreed that continuous learning and improvement is part of their work while the minority 6(15.0%) disagreed.25(63%) of the respondents did not follow proper hand washing procedures while 15(37%) followed the proper hand washing procedures. 27(68%) of the respondents never used personal protective equipment while only 1(2%) used the PPE always. 28(70%) were females whereas 12(30%) were males. Conclusion Food handlers in Kanagawa High School have recommendable knowledge and good food handling practices despite having varied but acceptable attitudes concerning specific areas. Recommendation Food handlers need to be sensitized about food handling, encouraged, and supervised to apply all the safe handling techniques of food handling to ensure food safety. School Administrators should provide the food handlers with adequate essential, equipment necessary for food handling hence promoting food hygiene.
Copyright (c) 2024 Sophia Nnabbuye , Jacob Auso Kibuuka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON PREVALENCE AND FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH BODY FLUIDS EXPOSURE AMONG NURSING STUDENTS OF BISHOP STUART UNIVERSITY.
Background: Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with body fluid exposure among nursing students. Method: A cross-sectional study design that employed a quantitative method of data collection was used. This design took a short time and no intervention was done after data collection. A total of 107 participants were selected by simple random sampling technique and data obtained was analyzed by SPSS version 20. Results: One hundred eight nursing students consented to participate in the study and all completed questionnaires making it 100% response. The majority of the respondents (90.7%) had ever been exposed to body fluids with 55.1% having been exposed to blood .49.0% of the respondents were exposed to body fluids over 3 times during their clinical practicum. The overall findings from the study revealed a significant relationship between the level of education, availability and use of PPEs, annual IPC training, availability of PPEs, and number of patients with exposure body among nursing students. Conclusion: The study highlighted a large percentage (90.7%) of the nursing students to have been exposed to body fluids with most of them having been exposed to blood and had more than 3 exposures to body fluids during their clinical practice. Recommendation: Institutional administrators should also ensure that students are provided with support supervision and continuous medical education to empower them on proper waste disposal and infectious disease control/management.
Copyright (c) 2024 Happiness Tusimiirwe, Andrew Natwijuka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH UPTAKE OF VOLUNTARY HIV TESTING AND COUNSELING SERVICES AMONG NURSING STUDENTS AT BISHOP STUART UNIVERSITY. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background HIV voluntary counseling and testing(VCT)services are a key route to the prevention and care of HIV/AIDS. The objective was to assess the uptake and factors associated with HIV voluntary testing and counseling among university students at Bishop Stuart University. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among Nursing undergraduate students from the faculty of health sciences at Bishop Stuart University with a sample size of 139. Results A total of 139 students participated in this study 72(51.8%) male and 67 (48.2%) female. Out of these, 58(41.7%) were in the age group of 18-23. The majority of participants showed knowledge about HIV transmission and VCT. Overall the uptake of VCT was high at (94.2%) The majority of the participants had a nearby place for HIVCT 136(97.8%), knew about the place through health workers 97(69.8%), took <5km from home to the nearest HIV testing site 93(66.9), waited for <1hour at health facility 97(69.8%) and did not pay for HIVCT 88(63.3%). This study results revealed a significant association between age X2(df=4) =7.608, p-value = 0.017, and X2(df=3) =3.345, P value = 0.034 with having done HIV VCT. This study revealed no significant relationship between the participants’ knowledge and HIV. Conclusion The study showed high knowledge of VCT services, and the uptake of VCT among nursing students was found to be high. Factors that were found to be significant in the uptake of HIV VCT included knowing the place of HIV VCT, quality of services (time taken at the facility), Age, and engagement in sexual relationships. Recommendation More emphasis also should be put on support and care received after knowing the test results to be communicated as it helps motivate more young people towards VCT uptake.
Copyright (c) 2024 Moreen Muhoza, Andrew Natwijuka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH POSTNATAL CARE SERVICE UTILIZATION AMONG POSTNATAL MOTHERS ATTENDING MITOOMA HEALTH CENTRE IV. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background The utilization of postpartum services is a major concern worldwide due to the great impact it has on infant and maternal mortality. The majority of perinatal deaths occur during the postpartum period. Postpartum services are those services offered to the mother and her baby during the first six weeks following delivery and it is a critical time for the mother and the baby. In Uganda, 74% of childbirths are attended by skilled health personnel, and 44% of postnatal mothers do not receive postnatal care (PNC) within 2 days after. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using a quantitative approach. Three hundred eighty-four (384) nursing students participated in the study and were selected by simple random sampling method. Data was collected through research-administered questionnaires. Data were checked for completeness, cleaned, and entered in SPSS for further analysis. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and a chi-square test to show the association between variables. Results 374 participants responded to the study yielding a response rate of 97.4%. There was a significant association between characters of age (p value= 0.003), religion (p value= 0.000), age of your partner (p value= 0.003), level of education (p value= 0.000), number of children (p value= 0.000), ANC attendance (p value= 0.000), times of ANC (p value= 0.000), place of delivery (p value= 0.000), mode of delivery (p value= 0.000), transport to hospital (p value= 0.015), paid for ANC (p value= 0.000) and amount paid for ANC (p value= 0.000) with PNC utilization. Conclusion Several factors influence mothers to seek postnatal care, especially the socioeconomic factors. Recommendations Qualitative studies should be done to understand in-depth the significant factors affecting postnatal care utilization in this study area.
Copyright (c) 2024 Jenipher Nuwagaba, Andrew Natwijuka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
PREVALENCE OF POSTNATAL CARE SERVICE UTILIZATION AMONG POSTNATAL MOTHERS ATTENDING MITOOMA HEALTH CENTRE IV. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: The utilization of postpartum services is a major concern worldwide due to the great impact it has on infant and maternal mortality. The majority of perinatal deaths occur during the postpartum period. Postpartum services are those services offered to the mother and her baby during the first six weeks following delivery and it is a critical time for the mother and the baby. In Uganda, 74% of childbirths are attended by skilled health personnel, and 44% of postnatal mothers do not receive postnatal care (PNC) within 2 days after childbirth. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a quantitative approach. A total of three hundred eighty-four (384) nursing students participated in the study and they were selected by simple random sampling method. Data was collected through research-administered questionnaires. Data were checked for completeness, cleaned, and entered in SPSS for further analysis. Data analysis was conducted by using descriptive statistics and a chi-square test to show the association between variables. Results: 374 participants responded to the study yielding a response rate of 97.4%. Overall study findings indicate that the prevalence of PNC attendance was (89.8%) and had attended 2-3 times (69.3%). Conclusion: Few mothers in this study have attended postnatal care, which is a very low rate when compared to similar studies in other regions of the country. Recommendation: Postnatal care service policies should be strengthened by educating health workers, especially the midwives who take the most part in the process of childbirth
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE UPTAKE OF THE COVID-19 VACCINE AMONG NURSING STUDENTS AT BISHOP STUART UNIVERSITY. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. The government of Uganda indicated a low uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine in the country, this aimed at assessing the factors influencing the uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine among nursing students at BSU. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using quantitative data collection methods, enrolling 139 participants who were selected using a simple random sampling method. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data which were checked for completeness, cleaned, and entered into SPSS for further analysis. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and a chi-square test to show the association between variables. Results Of 138 participants, the majority (36.0%) were aged between 21-23 females (64.0%) who were single (72.7%) and Anglicans (48.2%). Most of them were BNS students (61.2%) in their first year (36.7%) living in urban areas (74.1%) and were unemployed (65.5%). Bivariate analysis indicated that sex (p-value 0.021), program of study (p-value 0.031), desire to protect self, desire to protect friends and family, desire to travel freely within and abroad, compulsory in the workplace, concern about the side effects of the vaccine, myths, and conspiracy plan to wait and take it later, a program of study, level of education and prevalence were all significant variables. Conclusion Generally, the findings highlighted a high uptake of COVID-19 vaccination among nursing students at BSU and also general good knowledge of nursing students towards COVID-19 vaccination. Recommendations The government through the Ministry of Health should also expand its mass COVID-19 immunization campaign to reach local areas. Immunization services should also be incorporated into the health care package given as part of outpatient services in government health facilities. Responsible stakeholders in curriculum design should formulate topics teaching about the benefits of immunization against COVID-19
Copyright (c) 2024 Rogers Anyijukire , Andrew Natwijuka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE OF NURSING STUDENTS TOWARDS COVID-19 VACCINATION AT BISHOP STUART UNIVERSITY. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: The study aims to document the Knowledge of Nursing students about COVID-19 vaccination at Bishop Stuart University. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional design and used quantitative data collection techniques. The study was conducted among nursing students of Bishop Stuart University Ruharo campus. A simple random sampling method was used to choose participants and a sample size of 139 Respondents was selected for the study. The data collected from questionnaires was entered and analyzed using a statistical package for social scientists (SPSS). Results: The study had a higher percentage of female participants (64.0%) than male participants (36.0%). Anyone who scored over 75% was regarded as having excellent knowledge, one who received between 50% and 75% was seen as having good knowledge, and one who received less than 50% was regarded as having poor knowledge (below 3 questions correctly answered). In regards to the vaccines used in Uganda, AstraZeneca was 123(88.5), Johnson 123(88.5), Moderna 111(79.9), Covaxin 10(7.2), and Pfizer 89(64.0). Regarding vaccine safety, those safe without side effects were 20(14.4), those safe with some side effects 101(72.2), and those not safe with obvious side effects 18(12.9)Participants who got infected with COVID-19 after vaccination were 127(91.4) and those who were not infected after the vaccination 12(8.6), those that were suffering from COVID-19 and yet they were vaccinated were 39(28.1) and those that were not vaccinated and yet suffered from COVID-19 100(71.9), Those that were vaccinated with a second different vaccine were 103(74.1) and those who were not 36(25.9) Conclusion: Most of the participants had strong awareness about COVID-19 vaccination. Recommendation: The government should also initiate a fight against negative information circulating on social and news media replacing it with correct and rightful information as far as COVID-19 vaccination is concerned.
Copyright (c) 2024 Rogers Anyijukire, Andrew Natwijuka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
ADOLESCENT-PARENT COMMUNICATION ON SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH ISSUES IN MBAARE SUB COUNTY IN ISINGIRO DISTRICT.A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY.
Background: Improving adolescent sexual and reproductive health continues to be a global public health need. Effective parent–adolescent communication on sexual health issues has been cited as a factor that could influence adolescents toward adopting safer sexual behavior. The study aims to invest the adolescent-parent communication on sexual and reproductive health issues in Mbaare sub-county. Methods: It was systematically searched and synthesized qualitative literature. We assessed the methodological quality of the included studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programmed (CASP) checklist. We thematically analyzed qualitative data from the included young adolescents who were selected randomly from three parishes of Mbaare Sub County. Results: Fifteen studies were included. Social and physiological events act as triggers for initiating discussions. Fear of personal, social, and economic consequences of high-risk sexual behaviors act as drivers for communication but also carry a negative framing that hinders open discussion. Lack of parental self-efficacy and cultural and religious norms create an uncomfortable environment leaving peers, media, teachers, and siblings as important and sometimes preferred sources of sexual health information. Conclusions: While mothers recognize their role in adolescent sexual and reproductive health and school-based interventions can act as useful prompts for initiating discussion, fathers are mainly absent from the home-based dialogue. Fear dominates the narrative, and the needs of adolescents remain unarticulated. Improving adolescent sexual and reproductive health remains an important public health need globally. Effective communication on sexual health issues between adolescents and their parents has been recognized to influence safer sexual behavior among adolescents. This review combined qualitative evidence to understand the nature of and barriers to communication about sex between parents and adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa. Recommendation: Researchers should use this information for decision-makers in choosing strategies for improving parent-child communication regarding Sexual and Reproductive Health matters.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mark Amanyire, Rodrick Tugume, Andrew Natwijuka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
THE CHALLENGES TO SELF-CARE AMONG TYPE 2 DIABETIC PATIENTS AT KABWOHE HEALTH CENTER IV. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: Diabetes is a chronic metabolic condition characterized by high blood glucose (or blood sugar) levels that, over time, cause significant damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. The most common is type 2 diabetes, which mainly affects adults and arises when the body develops insulin resistance or fails to produce enough insulin. The study aims to assess the challenges to self-care among type 2 diabetes patients at Kabwohe Health Center IV. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional study with qualitative methods among 18 participants who were selected using a purposive non-probability sampling technique. Recordings of the discussion were done using two recording devices to provide backup for the interviews and data analysis was done where responses were transcribed in verbatim then to English by the research team, coded, and categorized into themes and meaning drawn from the themes. Results: Patients with diabetes experienced significant negative consequences on their lives following a diabetes diagnosis and were afraid of diabetic complications. The access to resources and services, and the impact of illness are the themes that emerged as challenges to self-care among type 2 diabetes patients. Access to resources and services included sub-themes like logistical difficulties, costly food, and waiting for appointments. The impact of illness included subthemes like the impact activities of income generation and the effect on sexual activity. Conclusion: Resources and illness adaptability were the challenges identified. Before a patient with diabetes can do self-care, learning the basics of the condition is very important. Recommendation: Practitioners ought to have unique measures and guidelines for each patient diagnosed with diabetes and the earlier the information is given to these newly diagnosed patients the better outcome of self-care of diabetes.
Copyright (c) 2024 Rodrick Tugume , Andrew Natwijuka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
EXPERIENCES OF SELF-CARE AMONG TYPE II DIABETIC PATIENTS AT KABWOHE HEALTH CENTER IV. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: The study aims to explore experiences of self-care among patients with type 2 diabetes yielding new knowledge regarding self-care and also helping to prioritize type 2 diabetes management targets that are specific to the self-care needs of diabetic patients at Kabwohe Health Center IV. Methods: This was a cross-sectional phenomenological study design that employed a purposive sampling technique that involved diabetic patients of 5 years and above from the time of diagnosis who are receiving care at Kabwohe Health Center IV in Sheema District Uganda. The study involved 18 study participants and employed an in-depth interview guide with open-ended questions Results: Four emergent themes were identified to illustrate the self-care experiences among patients with Type 2 DM. These themes were: (i) dietary adjustment, (ii) social support (iii) personal journey (iv) self-regulation. Conclusion: Participants demonstrated an understanding of diabetes self-care but showed a need for a deeper and personally centered orientation towards diabetes self-care from the health workers Recommendation: The study recommends a detailed and personal-centered health education among these diabetic patients.