Welcome to SJ Pediatrics and Child Health Africa! We are delighted to present groundbreaking research and insights dedicated to improving pediatric healthcare across the continent. The journal is an open-access peer-reviewed international journal that includes all subjects of Pediatrics and Child health. The journal has both Print (ISSN: 3006-6360) and online (ISSN:3006-6379). It is Published by SJC Publishers Company Limited. Aim and Scope: SJ Pediatrics and Child Health Africa aim to provide a platform for disseminating high-quality research, reviews, and case studies pertinent to pediatric and child health issues across Africa and the world at large. The journal seeks to advance understanding and improve the health outcomes of children on the continent by publishing original research, evidence-based practices, and innovative approaches in areas such as preventive medicine, clinical care, public health interventions, and healthcare policy. SJ Pediatrics and Child Health Africa aims to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery, promote collaboration among healthcare professionals, and ultimately contribute to the well-being and development of African children. We publish different specialties, and we believe that each plays a unique role in improving Pediatric Health Outcomes. These are published in the following sections; Neonatology Pediatric Cardiology Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Pediatric Surgery Pediatric Emergency Medicine and Critical Care Pediatric Infectious Diseases Pediatric Hospice and Palliative Medicine Pediatric Pulmonology Adolescent Medicine Pediatric Neurology Social Pediatric Submit your Manuscript to us and experience a professional Publication process.
Pattern of heart disease in children attending Dessie referral hospital, Ethiopia, a facility cross-sectional study.
Background Congenital heart disease (CHD) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) represent a significant health burden in developing countries, contributing substantially to childhood morbidity and mortality. Both conditions are closely linked to socio-economic factors and are largely preventable. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the magnitude and pattern of heart disease among children at Dessie Referral Hospital, Ethiopia, from October 2022 to March 2023. Methods A retrospective, institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Dessie Referral Hospital. Data were collected from patient charts using a simple random sampling method. The data were entered, cleaned, and analyzed using SPSS version 25, with descriptive statistics applied for analysis. Results Over the six-month study period, 275 cases of cardiac disease were identified out of 6,018 total cases, yielding an incidence rate of 4.5%. Rheumatic heart disease accounted for 153 cases (55.6%), with the most common presentations being mitral valve regurgitation (57.2%, n=95), tricuspid regurgitation (49.4%), mitral stenosis (32.5%), and aortic regurgitation (AR). Congenital heart disease was diagnosed in 112 cases (40.7%), with ventricular septal defect (47.5%) being the most frequent, followed by atrial septal defect (15.1%), atrioventricular septal defect (11.5%), and Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) (8%). Conclusion Cardiac diseases remain a significant health concern, with an incidence rate of 4.5% over six months. Rheumatic heart disease accounted for the majority (55.6%) of cases, while congenital heart disease comprised 40.7%, with ventricular septal defect being the most common presentation. Recommendation These findings highlight the urgent need for improved prevention, early detection, and management strategies, particularly for RHD and CHD, to reduce their burden and associated complications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Zehara Gashaw, Ehtemariam Bahiru, Tariku Yigremachew Gossaye, Mohammed Legesse (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
Assessing adherence to the national pediatric antibiotic prescription guideline for pneumonia treatment of children 2-59 months at Butaro level II teaching hospital.
Background Inconsistent use of antibiotics can lead to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and pose a significant public health threat. The purpose of this study was to assess adherence to the national pediatric treatment guideline for antibiotic prescription for pneumonia among healthcare providers at a teaching hospital in Rwanda. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted by auditing the clinical records of children aged 2-59 months who were admitted with pneumonia from January 2022 to January 2024. Data on the severity of pneumonia, prescribed medications, and adherence to the treatment protocol were extracted and analyzed. Findings Out of the 308 records analyzed, only 14% were following the national guidelines in staging. While 71% of those correctly staged were prescribed the medications aligned with the guideline, none adhered to the complete regimen (in terms of route, dose, frequency, and duration). Once the medications were ordered, 97% were administered to patients as prescribed. Conclusion The study concluded that adherence to treatment guidelines remains suboptimal, with discrepancies in staging accuracy and treatment regimen implementation. This study highlighted the need for targeted interventions, including improved training, monitoring systems, and antibiotic stewardship programs, to optimize antibiotic prescribing practices, combat AMR, and improve health outcomes in pediatric populations, especially in low-resource settings.
Section of Pediatric Infectious Diseases
Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)
Copyright (c) 2025 Kevin Shimwa Gakuba, Ernestine Kanyana, Prof. Rex Wong, Dr. Louis Mujyuwisha (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
PRACTICE TOWARDS FIRST AID MANAGEMENT OF BURNS AMONG PARENTS OF CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS AT GOMBE HOSPITAL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Globally, burn injuries are a leading cause of death and disability among children. The study aims to assess the practice of first aid management of burns among parents of children under five years at Gombe Hospital. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study in which in-depth interviews were conducted, involving quantitative research approaches. Data was manually analyzed and entered into a computer using Microsoft Excel 2021. It was then presented using tables and figures. Results 21 (70%) of the respondents were employed while 9(30%) were unemployed. 17 (57%) took their children to the hospital after a burns accident whereas the diminutive 5 (17%) took their children home after a burns accident. 21 (70%) used herbs to treat burns whereas 9 (30%) did not use herbs to treat burns. 22 (73%) used cooking oil to treat the burns whereas 8 (27%) did not use cooking oil to treat the burns. The majority of the respondents 20(67%) didn’t use cold water in burnt areas whereas the minority of the respondents 10(33%) used cold water in burnt areas. Conclusion The practices toward first aid management were predominantly improper and potentially harmful which not only undermine effective burn management but also pose serious risks to the health and recovery of the children. Recommendations The Ministry of Health should Ensure that health workers receive regular training on the latest in burn care and prevention, enabling them to provide accurate advice and follow-up care to patients.
Copyright (c) 2024 Ismail Mugera , Edson Monday (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES TOWARDS INFANT ORAL MUTILATION AMONG MOTHERS OF LOMULE VILLAGE, BOMBO IN LUWERO DISTRICT- A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Infant Oral Mutilation (IOM) was a dangerous and sometimes fatal traditional or convectional dental malpractice that had been performed for decades in many areas of Africa. Uganda remains among the countries with almost a quarter of all deaths from IOM among infants. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was designed on 50 respondents using a convenient sampling nonprobability technique and interview questionnaires with closed and open-ended questions. Results 88.0% of respondents had ever had IOM, 74% knew IOM as the practice of removing the infant's harmful teeth,62% reported diarrhea, fever, and vomiting as the major reasons for carrying out false teeth removal,58% reported that they take their children who develop false teeth to the traditional healer for removal,54% reported that the child would die if the false teeth were not removed,88% reported that IOM was a good practice,74% reported that they carried out IOM to treat childhood illness like fever, vomiting, diarrhea,60%reported that traditional healers are the only people competent enough to decide whether the infant's teeth was to be removed,68% reported that the infant's teeth were removed at around 4-8months of age,56%reported that a bicycle spoke was used to remove the infant false teeth,88.0% reported that the child got better after false teeth removal. Conclusion The knowledge of the practice of IOM among mothers was not satisfactory. However, their attitude and practices which included myths and beliefs towards IOM were likely to expose more children to false teeth removal. Recommendations The community health workers should sensitize the community about the dangers of IOM, and teach mothers or caregivers the appropriate preventive measures and recommended management of childhood illness.
Copyright (c) 2024 MERCY LAMUNU, Patrick Alinde (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE ON NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS OF CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS AMONG MOTHERS ATTENDING MAKINDYE MILITARY POLICE HEALTH CENTRE III, KAMPALA DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of nutritional requirements of children under five years among mothers attending Makindye Military Police Health Center lll, Kampala district. Methodology The study employed a cross-sectional study to address the specific objectives where quantitative and qualitative approach was used to collect data in a short period at Makindye Military Police Health Centre III, Kampala district. Results This study documented that (92%) of the respondents had ever heard about nutritional requirements, (55%) obtained information about it from healthy facility,(93%) reported to know the meaning of exclusive breast feeding, (52%) knew breast feeding on demand,(70%) knew the stopping breast feeding at one year and above,(57%) reported feeding a child three times a day, (83%) knew the relevancy of adding fruits and vegetables on meals, (57%) knew that complementary feeds are introduced after 6 months (57%) preferring diet diversity, (77%) felt its right to exclusively breast feed a child for first 6 months (85%) with good attitude towards balanced diet (58%) feeling bad upon seeing a malnourished child (68%) stopping breastfeeding at 2 years, (70%) think fruits and vegetables are a must daily, (45%) would introduce complementary feeds at (4-6) months ,(65%) exclusively breast fed their children for first 6 months of life,(35%) had breast fed their children for 1 years and (60%) feeding child 3 times a day. Conclusion Women had good knowledge and attitude with poor practices towards nutritional requirements of children under five years even though fair practices. Recommendation MOH, NGOs, and other stakeholders should train an adequate number of service providers and health extension workers on health educating the community about the nutritional requirements of children under five years.
Copyright (c) 2024 GLORIA NANTEZA, Cliffe Atukuuma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON MALIGNANT TERTIAN MALARIA AMONG CHILDREN BELOW FIVE YEARS ATTENDING THE OUTPATIENT DEPARTMENT LABORATORY AT JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL.
Background: World Health Organisation estimates that 229 million new cases of Malignant Tertian Malaria in 2019 in the world. 3.3 billion people in tropical regions and Uganda there is still a high mortality rate, especially in children below five years. Purpose of the study: The study was to determine the prevalence of Malignant Tertian Malaria among children below five years at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was used and data was obtained from 146 respondents using an interviewer-administered questionnaire diagnosed, described, analyzed, and presented information on tables and figures using Microsoft Excel. Results: The prevalence of MTM was 48.6% among children below five years. The most common socio-economic factor was household structure with a prevalence of 56.33% and 43.66% for respondents who were staying in completed houses and those whose houses were not in good condition respectively. The knowledge of caretakers about MTM was inadequate most caretakers knew about MTM with a prevalence of 63.38%. Conclusion: Although interventions for the management of MTM were in place, a prevalence of 48.6% was still high and demands for additional efforts from the health workers and the Ministry of Health to lower the heavy disease burden. Recommendation: The health workers should offer health education about MTM to the patients attending the hospital and emphasis on early diagnosis and treatment of MTM infections should be prioritized.
Section of Pediatric Emergency Medicine and Critical Care
Copyright (c) 2024 Hajjarah Nabunje , BEN TURYATUNGA (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES OF UMBILICAL CORD CARE AMONG MOTHERS AGED 18-40 YEARS ATTENDING POSTNATAL CARE AT KAWOLO HOSPITAL BUIKWE DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: Harmful umbilical cord care contributes to neonatal infection, by which it’s a common portal of entry for invasive pathogenic. In turn, this leads to the death of many neonates. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and practices of umbilical cord care among mothers aged 18-40 years in Kawolo General Hospital Buikwe district. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 138 postnatal mothers using a simple random method. Data was collected from October to November 2023. Using a closed-ended questionnaire data was entered into Microsoft Excel 2007 for analysis and presentation. Results: The majority of the mothers were married, between the ages of 25-30 years, and worked as businesswomen. The majority of respondents 100/138 (80%) understood the definition of newborn cord care. All the participants 138/138 (100%) revealed using cord ligatures to tie the baby’s cord during delivery. The majority of the mothers, 91/138 (66%) only cleaned their baby’s cord once a day. While 120/138 (94%) applied warm saline water on the cord stump of the baby while at home, 8/138 (6%) used chlorhexidine. Conclusion: The majority of the respondents had accurate knowledge about cord care of newborns with the benefits of clean cord care being to prevent infection but a few knew when the cord would detach and their source of information was mainly from their mothers or in-laws. Recommendations: Health professionals should continue to make an effort to prevent morbidity and mortality rates related to umbilical cord infections as a result of poor cord care practices through health education and sensitizing the community about the dangers of poor cord practices.
Copyright (c) 2024 AARON EDEKET, JOSEPHINE. NASSAZI (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS INFLUENCING MANAGEMENT OF ACUTE RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS AMONG CHILDREN BELOW FIVE YEARS AT KIRA HEALTH CENTRE IV, WAKISO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Introduction In Uganda, inappropriately managed ARI has remained the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children under the age of five years accounting for about 9% of the ARI prevalence with 81.3% of cases occurring in urban areas. The purpose of the study was to determine factors influencing the management of acute respiratory infection among children below five years at Kiira Health Center IV, Wakiso District. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was done at the Kiira Health Centre IV in March 2023, among 30 randomly selected carers using self-administered structured questionnaires. Results The study showed significant maternal factors where 18(60%) were housewives, 19(63.3%) had more than 10 residents in households, and 16(53.3%) knew herbs as treatment measures that could be used to treat flu and cough. In the community factors, 17(56.7%) isolated children with respiratory infections, and 21(70%) regarded respiratory infections in children to be serious illnesses requiring medical help. However, 27(90%) recommended the use of herbs. Health facility-related factors were associated with long distances covered by the mothers 15(50%) which had cost implications. The long waiting time of 20(66.7%)before receiving treatment and the lack of prescribed medications affected the management of ARI. Conclusion The study concluded that the interrelated factors of maternal factors, community factors, and health facility-related factors were hindering the management of acute respiratory infections among children. Recommendation It is important to carry out community sensitization through village meetings and health education programs on appropriate interventions in the management of acute respiratory infections. Moreover, the patient flow system at the health center should be modified to reduce the waiting time.
Copyright (c) 2024 DOCUS NOMUJUNI, HERBERT KAYANGA (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICES OF CAREGIVERS TOWARDS PREVENTION OF MALARIA AMONG CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS ATTENDING KATAKWI HOSPITAL, KATAKWI DISTRICT. A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Malaria is an acute febrile illness caused by several species of plasmodium parasites transmitted to humans through a bite by an infected female anopheles mosquito. The study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of caregivers towards the prevention of malaria among children under five years attending Katakwi Hospital, Katakwi District. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional design. A simple random selection technique was used in this study to give equal opportunity to all respondents and to reduce biases. The researcher considered 50 respondents. Results (42%) of the respondents were aged 15-24 years, more than half 40% of the respondents were married, and least (8%) were divorced. (50%) resided 15 or even more than 15 kilometres away from the facility with a few who stayed within 2kms away from the facility. (64%) cited the use of mosquito nets as a control measure for malaria, and the least (2%) immunization. (46%) respondents practiced home management, (42%) of them took their children to the health facility, (18%) used herbs and (14%) of the respondents bought drugs from the nearest drug shop. Conclusion The knowledge on different methods of malaria prevention among caretakers of children under five was generally good, although the practices were poor since many of them didn’t practice routine and constant use of mosquito nets, also others still used traditional herbs as a control measure of malaria infection. Recommendation The Ministry of Health should increase the training of service providers to effect the prevention strategies to sensitize the community. This can easily be done through continuous mass community health education meetings and campaigns to sensitize malaria prevention.
Copyright (c) 2024 Mosing Igula, Julius Oluka (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITIDE, AND PRACTICES TOWARDS COMPLEMENTARY FEEDING AMONG MOTHERS OF CHILDREN FROM 6-24 MONTHS AT WAKISO HEALTH CENTER IV, WAKISO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Complementary feeding is the transitional period in which other foods (semi-solids and liquids) are introduced to the baby in addition to breast milk. The study aims to assess the level of knowledge attitudes and practices towards complementary feeding among mothers of children from 6-24 months at Wakiso Health Center IV, Wakiso district. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study in which the Quantitative method was used to source data which helped to determine measures of central tendency such as percentages and ratios to establish relationships between variables. Data analysis was done through tallying, coding, and editing. Raw data was cleaned and entered into the computer using Microsoft spreadsheets for frequency distribution tables and charts. Results (70%) of the respondents were married, (16%) were separated, (10%) were single and the least (4%) were divorced. 56% accepted that children should be given complementary foods more than 3 times a day while 44% said that children should be given complementary foods 2-3 times a day. 48% of the respondents strongly disagreed that some food e.g. eggs are so hard for the baby to digest with 56% of them disagreeing on stopping complementary foods during illness. 48%(24/50) of the mothers introduced complementary feeding at the age of 6 months. 36%(18/50) of the mothers introducing below 6 months Conclusion Mothers had sufficient knowledge and practices while worrying traces of poor attitudes towards complementary feeding were revealed among many mothers. Recommendation Complementary feeding education targeting behavioral change among young, single, and uneducated mothers of developing countries is important to reduce child morbidity and mortality.
Copyright (c) 2024 Hasifah Namulindwa , Glorious Orishaba (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES AMONG MOTHERS TOWARDS CORD CARE OF THE NEWBORN ATTENDING KAZO HEALTH CENTER IV, KAZO DISTRICT- A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: Poor cord care is still resulting in prevalent cord infections in developing countries because of the low knowledge, high rates of unhygienic cord care practices, and cultural belief in giving care to neonates. The study assessed the Knowledge, attitude, and practices among mothers towards cord care of the newborn attending Kazo H/CIV, Kazo District. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted in the study. Through simple random sampling, a total of 70 mothers were selected for the study and data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires. Results: More than half of the respondents 39(56%) were aged between 25-34 years, majority 31(41%) were married, majority 30(43%) were at level of secondary education, majority 41(59%) were Christians. The majority of the respondents 52(74%) said that they knew what cord care was and said that cord care meant cleaning the cord, majority 43(61%) knew that the importance of cord care was to prevent infections. The majority of the respondents 54(77%) had cultural beliefs they applied to newborn babies as regards cord care. The majority of respondents 52(74%) washed their hands before handling the cord, the majority 33(61%) applied other substances to the cord, the majority 31(44%) cleaned the cord 3 times a day, and the majority 49(70%) cleaned the cord daily. Conclusion: The majority of the respondents knew what cord care is and the importance of cord care. In regards to attitude, most of the respondents had a poor attitude towards cord care as they preferred following their cultural beliefs. However, cord care practices were still poor among respondents since the majority of them applied substances to the umbilical code stump. Recommendation: There is a need for health workers to increase awareness of cord care and signs and symptoms of cord infection especially when pregnant mothers come for antenatal and postnatal services.
Copyright (c) 2024 ANNITOR TURINAWE , Cliffe Atuukuma (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
THE FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH THE INCREASE OF DIARRHOEA AMONG CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OF AGE AT KASANGATI HEALTH CENTRE IV, WAKISO DISTRICT: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background The purpose of the study is to determine the factors associated with the increase of diarrhea in children less than 5 years of age in Kasangati Health Center IV, Wakiso district. Study objectives Determined the knowledge, attitude, and practices of caretakers towards diarrhea in children less than 5 years old at Kasangati HC IV, Wakiso district. Methodology A cross-sectional study of 100 participants was used in the study. A simple random sampling technique was used and data collected using survey and interview methods was presented and analyzed using descriptive frequencies and percentages of Microsoft Word and Excel Result The majority of respondents 73(73%) knew the meaning of diarrhea and 27(27%) did not know the meaning of diarrhea. Findings also showed that the majority 54(54%) of respondents said that children don’t like ORS because of its taste, 36(36%) of the respondents proposed its scent, and the rest 10(10%) its color. They also showed that the majority of participants 59 (59%) breastfed a child with diarrhea while 41(41%) respondents did not. Conclusion The study findings indicate that the majority of the respondents knew the meaning of diarrhea, its signs and symptoms (marked thirst, weight loss, sunken eyes, and dry skin), and its causes (poor hygiene, too much sugar in milk, and not breastfeeding). Recommendations Health workers and community health personnel should increase the sensitization about diarrhea signs and symptoms to the caretakers. Health workers and dispensing places like pharmacies should explain to caretakers how to prepare ORS and assess if they have understood it.
Copyright (c) 2024 IVAN AKANGWANAHO, Mr OTIENO JOASH ODIWUOR (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO MALNUTRITION AMONG CHILDREN BELOW FIVE YEARS AT PAEDIATRICS WARD AT KIBOGA DISTRICT HOSPITAL, KIBOGA DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Introduction Malnutrition is a deficiency or improper intake of energy and nutrients. It includes undernutrition (wasting, stunting, underweight, and micronutrient malnutrition) and overnutrition (obesity, some malignancies, and non-communicable illnesses). Objectives of the study To identify the social demographic factors, to determine the economic factors, and to assess the knowledge of parents or caregivers on factors contributing to malnutrition among children less than five years old in Kiboga District Hospital, Kiboga District. Methodology A cross-sectional descriptive study design was used, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The researcher conveniently sampled 100 respondents. Data collection was by using self-administered questionnaires which were filled and later analyzed using tables and pie charts. Results Out of the 100 respondents, the Majority; 71 (72%) of the respondents’ children were female and 29(29%) were male. The majority 80(80%) reported that poverty leads to malnutrition and 20(20%) which is the minority reported that it doesn’t. The majority 65(65%) reported that the caretaker’s occupation can lead to malnutrition and the minority 35(35%) reported that it does not affect malnutrition. The majority of the respondents 60(60%) knew the causes of malnutrition while the minority 40(40%) did not. Conclusion The study identified that poverty, caretaker’s occupation; sex, age, and residence are contributing to malnutrition among children below five years at Kiboga District Hospital, Kiboga district. It also established that respondents had good knowledge about factors contributing to malnutrition. Recommendation The in-charge of Kiboga District Hospital should ensure health education about malnutrition among children below five years of age through outreaches to enrich the community with more knowledge about the condition.
Copyright (c) 2024 JOVIA NANZIRI, Mr. KASUJJA HENRY (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH MALNUTRITION OCCURRENCE AMONG CHILDREN UNDER 5 YEARS IN KIHENDA VILLAGE HOIMA DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Malnutrition refers to deficiency, excess, or imbalance in a person’s energy and/or nutrient intake). The study aims to assess the Factors associated with malnutrition occurrence among children under 5 years in Kihenda village Hoima district. Methodology A cross-sectional descriptive study where the Simple Random sampling method was used to select the 100 respondents from which quantitative data was collected. Results The majority 46(77%) reported that working long hours of parents contributed to malnutrition and the minority 14(23%) reported that it did not affect malnutrition. 48(80%) majority of teenage mothers reported that age contributed to malnutrition whereas the minority of 10(17%) and 02(03%) of adult mothers never agreed. Majority of children in families 78(78%) were found to be normal while the minority 07(07%) stunted, 06(06%) underweight and 09(09%) wasted. Majority of the respondents’ families had children 64(64%) of 3 to 5 whereas 23(23%) of 0 to 2, 08(08%) of 6 to 8, and 05(05%) of 10 to 12 as the minority.The majority of the respondents 60(60%) had ever heard about malnutrition while the minority 40(40%) of them had not. The majority of the respondents 55(55%) did not know that the first breast milk was important to the child whereas the minority 45(45%) knew that the first breast milk was important. Conclusion A Variety of factors like age of caretakers, number of children in the household, long working hours of caretakers, insufficient Knowledge, and poor attitudes about proper nutrition were closely associated with Malnutrition. Recommendation There should be increased campaigns with feasible knowledge that is applicable in rural areas, and this could be through empowering the Village Health Teams in these areas by the government of Uganda and the Ministry of Health to improve the nutrition status of children below 5 years.
Copyright (c) 2024 Nelson Musimenta, Richard Onyango (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES OF CARE GIVERS OF CHILDREN BELOW FIVE YEARS TOWARDS IMMUNIZATION AT NDEJJE HEALTH CENTRE IV, WAKISO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background Immunization is an important tool for controlling and eliminating life-threatening infectious diseases and is estimated to prevent between 2 and 3 million deaths each year. The study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of caregivers of children below five years towards immunization at Ndejje Health Centre iv, Wakiso District. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study design using a quantitative approach to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mothers/caregivers towards immunization of children below five years. Results Most of the respondents had the required knowledge and right attitudes that were sufficient to inform their practice towards immunization. The majority (55%) knew all the Immunizeble diseases and few respondents did not know any of the Immunizable diseases (15%). (53%) accepted that immunization protects children against deadly diseases while (47%) denied that it does not protect children against deadly diseases. (74%) accepted that immunization is important against a few (26%) who denied that immunization is not important. (60%) had immunized all their children while (40%) had not immunized all of their children. As per the immunization schedule where (80%) had not immunized their children as per the immunization schedule and (20%) had immunized their children as per the immunization schedule. Conclusion Married women/caregivers, professional mothers/ caregivers, and as well as male children were found to be statistically significant predictors of maternal/caregivers toward childhood immunization. The child’s sex (male) and married women/caregivers showed statistical significance with mothers'/caretakers’ attitudes towards childhood immunization. Recommendation Public health education should be intensified to improve the knowledge, attitude, and practice of mothers/caregivers on childhood immunization. Continuous professional development sessions should also be provided to health service providers in hospitals to properly deliver to shape the knowledge and attitude of caregivers.
Copyright (c) 2024 SHAFIK KAVUMA , GLORIOUS ORISHABA (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS PREDISPOSING TO NEONATAL ASPHYXIA AMONG NEONATES DELIVERED AT ADJUMANI GENERAL HOSPITAL, ADJUMANI DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background The purpose of the study was to assess the individual factors predisposing to neonatal asphyxia, to find out the community factors predisposing to neonatal asphyxia, and to determine the health-related factors predisposing to neonatal asphyxia. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional study was employed to collect data from 50 respondents. A purposive sampling technique was used and data obtained was presented in tables and figures. Results The results of the study reported that individual factors predisposing to neonatal asphyxia were, the majority (82 %) of the respondents had attended antenatal care three times, more than half (52 %) of the respondents reported that they had been diagnosed with severe malaria during pregnancy, the majority (76 %) of the respondents reported to have experienced prolong labor for more than 8 hours. The findings on the community factor showed that the majority (74 %) of the respondents delivered from the hospital, and most (46 %) of the respondents delivered from home by unskilled relatives. Findings on health facility factors were, that 56 % of the respondents had nighttime deliveries, 46 % of the respondents had daytime deliveries, more than half (52 %) of the respondents had been delivered by medical interns alone and the majority (66 %) of the respondents reported that the hospital was less prepared for neonatal emergencies. Conclusion Poor antenatal care attendance, severe malaria, prolonged labor, night-time delivery, delivery by medical interns alone, and less preparedness of the hospital for neonatal emergencies were the factors predisposing to neonatal asphyxia. Recommendation Pregnant mothers should ensure complete attendance of antenatal care to promote successful pregnancy outcomes, proper guidance to be given to medical interns attending labor by experienced midwives to ensure better delivery outcomes, and health workers attending labor should always be prepared to handle neonatal emergencies.
Copyright (c) 2024 FELIX ADIBAKU , PROSPER MUBANGIZI (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO LOW UTILIZATION OF ORAL REHYDRATION SOLUTION AMONG MOTHERS OF CHILDREN BELOW FIVE YEARS AT ARUA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL, ARUA DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Aim; To determine the individual, environmental, and health facility factors contributing to low utilization of oral rehydration solutions among mothers of children below five years at Arua Regional Referral Hospital, Arua District. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study that employed the simple random method to select 50 respondents who participated in the study. The study data collection tool was a questionnaire. Data was analyzed manually by use of tally sheets and computed into percentages using the Microsoft Excel computer program with illustrated figures and tables for easier interpretation and presented in the form of frequency distribution tables, bar graphs, and pie charts. Results: (88%) had ever heard about oral rehydration solution, (61%) knew that ORS protects the child from diarrheal, (68%) agreed that diarrheal is a serious condition that can lead to dehydration. (72%) where from villages, (68%) of their source of water at home was boreholes, (52%) had enough access to materials that are used in the preparation of ORS at home (54%) reported that the quality of ORS which is provided from health facilities and pharmacies was good, (36%) noted that home remedies were the best for diarrheal. Conclusion: Participants were reluctant to administer ORS to their children on time, beliefs towards the effectiveness of ORS in managing diarrhea illness, location of the their homes had an impact on the use of ORS, adequate access to safe water, the influence of community member’s perception towards ORS, participant’s opted home remedies than ORS, poor health-seeking behaviors, and inadequate information from health workers were the outstanding factors contributing to low utilization of oral rehydration solution. Recommendation: Arua Regional Referral Hospital should strengthen the strategies and approaches to reach caregivers to increase the coverage of ORS use through intensive health education focusing on the benefits, early initiation, and preparation of ORS.
Copyright (c) 2024 SANCTUS OKUTIA , SHARIFAH NABUKENYA (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
KNOWLEDGE , ATTITUDE AND PRACTICES TOWARDS HIV PREVENTION AMONG ADOLESCENTS ATTENDING WAKISO HEALTH CENTRE IV, WAKISO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices towards the prevention of HIV/AIDS among adolescents attending Wakiso Health Centre IV, Wakiso district. Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional study design to describe the knowledge, attitude, and practices towards prevention of HIV/AIDS among adolescents attending Wakiso Health Centre IV, Wakiso district for 10 days from 50 respondents by use of a questionnaire containing questions to assess the respondent’s demographic data, knowledge, attitude and practices towards prevention of HIV/AIDS and methods. Results: 92% of them had never heard about HIV, and all were single. The majority of the respondents 50%, knew that HIV can be prevented through abstinence, 20% by condom use, 18% by being faithful and 8% by not sharing sharp objects. A small group of the respondents 4% knew about Safe Male Circumcision (SMC) and the respondents said that abstinence, use of condoms, being faithful to your partner, and not sharing sharp objects: 48%, 20%, 16%, and 12% respectively were good methods for HIV/AIDS prevention. Respondents 48% said abstinence was the best method for HIV/AIDS prevention, 80% had tested for HIV/AIDS and 60% did SMC. Conclusion: The study found out that adolescents had good knowledge of abstinence, use of condoms, being faithful, not sharing sharp objects, and inadequate knowledge of SMC, they had good attitudes towards abstinence, use of condoms, being faithful, and practiced abstinence, SMC, and HIV testing. The result justifies the effort put in by different stakeholders to create and promote awareness of the prevention of HIV among adolescents. Recommendation: Wakiso Health Centre IV should ensure sex education at all times to ensure continuous awareness of HIV prevention among adolescents.
Copyright (c) 2024 FELICITY NAMUKISA , SHARIFAH NABUKENYA (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO POOR HEALTH-SEEKING BEHAVIORS AMONG HIV ADOLESCENTS ATTENDING ART CLINIC AT KALAGALA HEALTH CENTRE IV, LUWERO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: The purpose of the study: was to find out individual, community, and health facility-related factors contributing to poor health-seeking behaviors among HIV adolescents attending the ART clinic at Kalagala Health Centre IV, Luwero district. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design using a simple random sampling technique sampled 50 respondents. A questionnaire with open and ended questions written in English language was used as the data collection tool and data was analyzed manually by use of tally sheets and presented in tables and figures by support of narratives. Findings: The majority of the respondents were 18-19 years old (46%), female (60%), and in secondary school (52%). Many (92%) perceived ART as very important, (58%) had ever been exposed to drug adverse effects, and (38%) missed prescribed ART medications ART due to forgetfulness. Respondents (48%) affirmed that their parents don’t usually support them in taking medication, (48%) noted that community members were unfriendly towards HIV-positive adolescents, and (82%) were day scholars. When it came to the health facilities (60%) of the respondents noted the waiting time was quite long, (64%) reported that the attitudes of health workers were fair, (70%) agreed that they received adequate counseling services in regards to timely ART, (56%) reported a very far distance from their homes to the health facility. Conclusion: Exposure to drug adverse effects missed prescribed medications due to forgetfulness, unsupportive parents/caretakers, unpleasant perceptions of community members towards HIV-positive adolescents, tight school programs, long waiting times, spiteful attitudes of health workers, and distances from homes to health facilities were the foremost factors contributing to poor health-seeking behaviors among adolescents on ART. Recommendation: Kalagala Health Center IV administration should build a good client-based relationship with adolescents so that they can freely express themselves and develop their preferred mode for accessing timely ART.
Copyright (c) 2024 LILLIAN NAMBOGO, AMIRI WERE (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO IRRATIONAL PRESCRIPTION OF ANTIBIOTICS AMONG PRESCRIBERS IN CHILDREN BELOW 12 YEARS, KAWOLO GENERAL HOSPITAL, BUIKWE DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Background: Specific objectives: To determine & identify the individual and health facility-related factors contributing to the irrational prescription of antibiotics among prescribers to children below 12 years in Kawolo General Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done on only health workers of Kawolo General Hospital. A convenience sampling technique was used to obtain the sample of participants. Results: The majority of the respondents were between 30-39yrs (40%), married (60%), and nurses by profession (40%). The study findings showed that (64%) of the respondents reported having positive attitude towards irrational prescription of antibiotics, most(46%) reported working 12 hours a day, (84%) reported that there are no senior medical officers who usually approve the prescriptions, (60%) reported that junior health workers are not equipped with the knowledge about using diagnostic tools, (68%) reported that they have experienced pressure while prescribing,(92%) were not provided with the prescription guidelines, (96%) were not oriented about the use of guidelines, (72%) reported that the health facility does not engage health works in professional training,(76%) reported that there is no supervision carried out on junior health workers. Conclusion: The factors contributing to irrational prescription of antibiotics among prescribers of children below 12 years include inadequate knowledge of prescribers, pressure experienced by prescribers from patients, working for long hours, lack of continuous professional development, and failure of the hospital management to provide the prescription guidelines to prescribers. Recommendations: The Ministry of Health should enforce the use of Uganda's clinical guidelines in clinical practice to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment of prevailing diseases. The management of Kawolo General Hospital should conduct strict supervision and guidance to the junior health workers.
Copyright (c) 2024 DERRICK BAKEERA , Mulodokayi Niwagira (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0