Research Articles (Nursing Science)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/3526

For inquiries regarding this collection or items in the collection, please contact : Mike Volschenk
Tel.: +27 12 354 1435

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 368

Empowered to lead : the effect of mentoring and tutoring on peer tutor leadership development
(Wiley, 2025-06) Van der Merwe, Wanda; Maree, Carin; Yazbek, Mariatha; Cochrane, Maria Elizabeth; wanda.vandermerwe@up.ac.za
Peer tutoring is an essential service in higher education, requiring comprehensive training that transcends academic content to include leadership development. This study assessed the impact of a tutoring and mentoring intervention on the leadership skills of tutors. Seven medical students participated in a year-long program involving leadership workshops, peer tutor training, and mentoring. Pre- and post-test results showed a large effect on 12 of 30 leadership questions and a medium effect on 6, demonstrating significant leadership growth in peer tutors. This study highlights how mentoring and tutoring can significantly enhance tutors' leadership abilities, supporting their holistic growth and preparing them for future leadership roles.
Strategies utilized and challenges faced by stakeholders while managing epilepsy in African schools : a scoping review
(Elsevier, 2025-10) Dzah, Seth Selassie; Owusu, Diana Akoah Mansah; Van der Wath, Anna Elizabeth; Abraham, Susana Aba; Amoadu, Mustapha; Leech, Ronell; ronell.leech@up.ac.za
Even though education is an essential element in the development of society, the educational experiences of students living with epilepsy tend to be challenging. This review aimed to map the strategies utilized and challenges faced by stakeholders (teachers, school nurses, and parents) in managing students with epilepsy at school. The six-stage framework of Arksey and O’Malley (2005) was employed in this scoping review. Six electronic databases (PsycINFO, PubMed Central, Scopus, Embase, Dimensions AI, and Medline) and other internet-based resources were searched from 2000 to 2024. Twenty-two articles were found to be eligible and included in this review. Findings reveal critical challenges faced by stakeholders while managing students with epilepsy in schools, including a lack of adequate epilepsy targeted training, cultural beliefs laced with misconceptions, stigma and social isolation, and medication access difficulties. To manage these challenges, strategies utilized included improved access to healthcare and medications, as well as education focusing on epilepsy and first aid. Parents, teachers, and school nurses should collaborate, being guided by clear management guidelines, to manage students with epilepsy in school settings effectively. HIGHLIGHTS • This study reveals challenges faced by stakeholders managing students with epilepsy. • Inadequate epilepsy training and misconceptions were found. • There is need for epilepsy specific training programs for teachers and parents. • Schools should work with health professionals and parents to manage students with epilepsy. • Availability of guidelines for epilepsy will improve epilepsy management in schools.
Barriers and facilitators of incorporating Ubuntu principles in the integrated management of childhood illness
(AOSIS, 2025-06) Meno, Felicia O.; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Sepeng, Nombulelo V.; felicia.meno@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Success in incorporating Ubuntu principles in the integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI) requires collaboration between health professionals and families and assistance from their communities. Despite this, the literature reviewed is silent about exploring caregivers’ perspectives regarding the barriers and facilitators of incorporating Ubuntu principles in managing childhood illness. AIM : The study explored and described the barriers and facilitators of incorporating Ubuntu principles in managing childhood illness. SETTING : The study was conducted in selected primary healthcare settings, community health centres and clinics in the Mafikeng sub-district of the North West province. METHODS : The study was conducted using exploratory descriptive contextual, qualitative design. The 36 participants were selected using purposeful sampling. Data were collected through focus group discussions, and thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. RESULTS : The study revealed three themes: the negative attitude of professional nurses, communication barriers and facilitators enhancing the incorporation of Ubuntu into IMCI. The findings indicated that health education of caregivers is crucial, the right allocation of nurses will facilitate the inclusion of Ubuntu into IMCI and the unannounced visit of government authorities will also facilitate the incorporation. CONCLUSION : The study illustrated that caregivers face several barriers hindering the incorporation of Ubuntu in IMCI. These findings support the need for healthcare providers to prioritise the incorporation of Ubuntu principles for better management of childhood illness for children under the age of five. CONTRIBUTION : This is the first study to report the barriers and facilitators of incorporating Ubuntu principles into IMCI.
Perspectives on adherence to prescribed home exercises after polytrauma : a qualitative study
(AOSIS, 2025-06) Monaiwa, Keamogetswe; Yazbek, Mariatha; Magida, Nontembiso
BACKGROUND : Polytrauma can be life altering, requiring a holistic approach to reach the highest functional level. Physiotherapists prescribe home exercise programmes (HEPs) to prevent complications associated with immobility. Adherence to HEPs is crucial, yet factors influencing non-adherence remain underexplored. OBJECTIVES : Our study explored patients with polytrauma perspectives on adherence to prescribed HEPs. METHOD : A qualitative exploratory, descriptive design was used to recruit participants purposively from a rehabilitation unit in Tshwane district, South Africa. Participants diagnosed with polytrauma, aged 18 years or older, and prescribed a HEP were included, while those with cognitive impairments or language barriers were excluded. Consent was obtained while hospitalised, and participants were contacted 3 months post-discharge for telephonic semistructured interviews lasting 30–45 min. Ethical clearance (reference number: 595/2022) and institutional permission were granted. Interviews were audio-recorded and conducted until data were saturated. Data were verbatim transcribed and analysed thematically to identify key themes and sub-themes. RESULTS : Thirteen participants (8 male and 5 female participants) with a mean age of 43.77 (standard deviation = 10.45) were interviewed. The four major themes were physical, psycho-cognitive, social and environmental factors. Adherence barriers were more significant than facilitators. The most frequently reported facilitator was family support, whereas the most commonly reported barrier was pain. CONCLUSION : Polytrauma patients identified more barriers than facilitators affecting HEP adherence. Pain significantly hindered adherence, while family support was a key enabler. CLINICAL IMPLICATION : Physiotherapists should work collaboratively with patients to develop inclusive HEPs that consider their demographic, social, psychological, physical and environmental context.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on HIV and AIDS care provision in South Africa : an integrative literature review
(Termedia Publishing House Ltd., 2024-10-30) Seretlo, Raikane James; Ramavhoya, Thifhelimbilu I.; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Gundo, Rodwell; Nesengani, Tintswalo Victoria; Kgatla, Mamoeng N.; Peu, Mmapheko Doriccah
Worldwide, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has negatively impacted healthcare services, including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) care. In 2020, the attention shifted from HIV and AIDS to COVID-19, and as a result, there was a decline in using HIV services, such as antiretroviral treatment and pre-exposure prophylaxis. Moreover, people living with HIV cancelled and/or missed their clinic appointments due to fears of contracting the virus. The aim of this paper was to explore the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on HIV and AIDS care provision in South Africa. In this integrative review, Google Scholar, Scopus, EBSCOhost, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases as well as literature on HIV/AIDS and COVID-19 were searched for publications between 2020 and 2022. Out of 255 publications, 150 were considered irrelevant, 105 were potentially eligible, and 30 were fully screened. In total, only 12 research papers met inclusion criteria. From the literature reviewed, 4 themes and related sub-themes emerged. The findings revealed reduced HIV testing and monitoring, missing and cancellation of appointments, a decline in antiretroviral treatment initiation services and other services, such as antiretroviral treatment collections and adherence, were all affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 had a negative impact in the uptake, HIV monitoring, and adherence to antiretroviral drugs by people living with HIV. The use of telehealth, de-centralization, online classes, and call centers can be some of the innovative strategies that South Africa can adapt, which will help in the prevention of care and avoidance of negative impacts of future pandemics on the health of South Africans.
Nurse leaders' perceptions of followership development needs : a descriptive qualitative study
(Wiley, 2025-04) Mamba, Welile Magnificent; Fourie, Willem; Heyns, Tanya; u17284229@tuks.co.za
INTRODUCTION : Followership is a critical aspect of leadership because, without followers, there can be no leaders. To be successful, organizations must develop high-performance, self-developed, and self-led followers with specific values. However, organizations have traditionally prioritized developing leaders, leaving out followers in the development equation. Followership development allows nurses to learn how to work effectively in teams, fostering teamwork skills. AIM : To explore nurse leaders’ perceptions of followership development needs. MATERIALS AND METHODS : A descriptive qualitative design was used. Data were collected via face-to-face, semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 10 purposively selected nurse leaders (middle and top management). The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed via Braun and Clarke’s approach. FINDINGS : Participants emphasized the need for followership education for nurses. Followership should be incorporated into undergraduate nursing curricula and in-service training. Additionally, participants verbalized the need for a followership development program that should train nurse followers in communication, inter-professional collaboration, decision-making, team building, teamwork, and leadership. The participants suggested that followership could be developed by providing incentives for good followership behavior and conducting periodic performance appraisals. CONCLUSION : The participants emphasized the importance of a followership development program, which may enhance the relationship between nurse leaders and followers and contribute to positive patient outcomes. Future research needs to develop programs to develop nurses who are followers. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT : Developing followers in a hospital setting is critical. Understanding needs and what a followership program should include assists nurse leaders in planning and implementing relevant programs.
Teaching, learning and assessment of the affective domain of undergraduate students : a scoping review
(Elsevier, 2025-07) Potgieter, Lizelle; Filmalter, Cecilia Jacoba; Maree, Carin; celia.filmalter@up.ac.za
AIM : To describe the literature on the teaching, learning and assessment of the affective domain among undergraduate students across various disciplines. BACKGROUND : Effective education integrates cognitive, psychomotor and affective development. While extensive research has addressed the teaching, learning and assessment of cognitive and psychomotor domains, considerably less attention has been given to the affective domain. The affective domain, encompassing values, ethics and emotional competencies, is essential for professional readiness yet remains a challenge in nursing education. DESIGN : A scoping review was conducted. METHODS : A comprehensive search was conducted following the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines and was registered on OSF registries. RESULTS : Twenty articles met the inclusion criteria, representing studies across 13 countries in America, Asia and Europe. No scoping review has mapped teaching and assessment of affective skills in undergraduate nursing programmes. The findings emphasized teaching and learning strategies within the affective domain but revealed a significant gap in assessment methods, particularly in nursing education. CONCLUSIONS : Despite the recognized importance of the affective domain, existing literature predominantly addresses teaching and learning, with limited emphasis on systematic assessment strategies.
Nursing students' appreciation of clinical supervision during work-integrated learning
(AOSIS, 2025-06) Mugwari, Mphambanyeni Julia; Van Wyk, Neltjie C.; Lavhelani, Ndivhaleni Robert; neltjie.vanwyk@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Effective clinical supervision in learning-conducive environments is required to enhance students’ work-integrated learning. Conversely, ineffective clinical supervision can jeopardise students’ learning and skills development. AIM : The aim of the study was to explore and describe the aspects of clinical supervision during work-integrated learning that students of a designated nursing education institution appreciated. SETTING : The study was conducted at an institution in South Africa that offered a 3-year diploma programme in nursing science. The students took part in work-integrated learning at five public hospitals and 20 clinics. METHODS : Descriptive qualitative research with an appreciative inquiry approach was done. Second and third-year students were purposively selected and took part in four focus group discussions. Data saturation determined the sample size of 45 participants. The 5-D Appreciative Inquiry Model applied. RESULTS : The participants appreciated opportunities to learn how to integrate theory in practice under the supervision of professional nurses in learning-conducive clinical environments and enabling relationships with facilitators and lecturers. They wished for ongoing cooperation between the institutions involved to ensure well-resourced facilities and manuals for standardised nursing procedures. CONCLUSION : Nursing students require clinical supervision to benefit optimally from work-integrated learning. The supervision should be provided by hospital and clinic staff, as well as clinical facilitators and lecturers in learning-conducive environments created through cooperation between the institutions involved in the students’ training. CONTRIBUTION : The research findings indicate the support that students require to use learning opportunities to become clinically skilled in integrating theory and practice.
Measures used by stakeholders to mitigate gender-based violence through the Ubuntu philosophy lens in South Africa
(Frontiers Media, 2025-05) Masutha, Thingahangwi Cecilia; Maphula, Angelina; Moloko-Phiri, Salaminah; Matsipane, Molokedi; Gundo, Rodwell
Gender-Based violence (GBV) is a widespread problem in South Africa, impacting almost every aspect of life. This study aimed to explore measures different stakeholders use to mitigate Gender-Based Violence through the Ubuntu philosophy lens in South Africa. The study's objectives were (1) to explore how the Ubuntu philosophy can be applied to mitigate GBV in South Africa (2) to recommend culturally relevant, community-centered measures to mitigate GBV using Ubuntu principles and foster collective responsibility. The study was conducted in a selected university's boardroom in South Africa. A qualitative approach using explorative, descriptive, and contextual designs was adopted per the research objectives. The population comprised hospital nurses, Thuthuzela Care Center, social workers, psychologists, the South African Police Service (SAPS), the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and the Democratic Nursing Organization of South Africa (DENOSA). Eighteen participants were conveniently sampled and consented to participate. Semi-structured questions were used to achieve the objectives of the study. Two focus group discussions were used to collect data. The interviews lasted for 35–45 min and lasted for 1 day. Data was analyzed thematically using Tech's eight steps. Three themes with their sub-themes emerged: information giving, support needed, and Ubuntu principles to mitigate GBV, where reasons for women to remain in abusive relationships, culture and its influences on GBV, and GBV in the workplace were articulated. Mental health support, social development, and services available for the survivors were also deducted from the study as sub-themes. According to the study's findings, raising knowledge of the Ubuntu ideology and GBV may help lessen some types of GBV by promoting Ubuntu's values. This study recommends an interprofessional collaboration on curbing Gender-Based Violence using the Ubuntu philosophy.
Caregiver’s knowledge of childhood diarrhea disease prevention strategies and their associated factors in Dodoma, Tanzania. A cross-sectional study
(Sage, 2024) Saguda, Nonhy; Msisiri, Laidi S.; Masika, Golden M.; Masanja, Pendo P.
INTRODUCTION : Childhood diarrhea remains a leading cause of death in children under 5 years of age worldwide, although the disease is both preventable and treatable. Effective caregiver involvement, rotavirus vaccinations, and parallel diarrhea prevention are critical. OBJECTIVES : This study aimed to assess caregiver’s knowledge of childhood diarrheal disease prevention, rotavirus vaccination knowledge, and associated factors in Dodoma, Tanzania. METHODS : A hospital-based analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at Makole Health Center, Dodoma. Data were collected from 274 caregivers of children under 5 years of age who attended a routine immunization clinic. Respondents were interviewed using a semi-structured, pretested questionnaire. Data were analyzed for frequency, percentages, and mean, followed by multivariable linear logistic regression to examine the association between socio demographic factors and caregiver’s knowledge. RESULTS : A total of 274 subjects were involved in the study. The majority (93.8%) were women, all had formal education, (62.8%) knew that diarrhea in children can be prevented by proper hand washing, and only (9.9%) knew about the rotavirus vaccine. Educational level (β=0.565 CI; 0.490, 0.873) p-value < .001, age of parents (β=0.738 CI; 0.427, 1.050) p-value .022 and age of child (β=−0.306 CI; − 0.490, −0.122), p-value <.001 and the fact that the child was male (β=1.116, 95% CI= 0.712, 1.520) p-value < .001) were the factors associated with participants’ knowledge. CONCLUSION : The results highlight the great need for public health programs to increase awareness of rotavirus vaccines and parallel diarrhea prevention interventions, which in turn will significantly improve caregivers’ knowledge and therefore the prevention of diarrhea in children
Caregivers' role regarding managing postoperative pain of hospitalised children (0-3 years)
(AOSIS, 2025-03) Ofosu-Dwamena, Sylvia Oger; Maree, Carin; Rossouw, Seugnette; Bhana-Pema, Varshika
BACKGROUND : Acute postoperative pain is a common surgical symptom affecting 40% - 80% of patients. Postoperative pain produces much distress in children. Effective postoperative pain management is a human right. Various stakeholders, including caregivers, are involved in the management of children’s postoperative pain. However, the role of the caregiver is accentuated during the child’s discharge, with limited studies focusing on the role during hospitalisation. AIM : This study aimed to describe how caregivers manage their children’s (0–3 years) postoperative pain during hospitalisation and explore caregivers’ expectations about how their hospitalised children’s postoperative pain is managed. SETTING : The study setting was a regional hospital in Ghana. METHODS : The research employed a descriptive qualitative methodology. Purposive sampling was used to recruit caregivers. Data were collected using individual in-depth interviews. The transcripts were thematically analysed using Clarke and Braun’s framework. RESULTS : The researchers identified four themes: caregiver’s experiences of caring for children with postoperative pain, caregivers’ assessment of children’s postoperative pain, caregivers’ assistance with management and expectations of the caregivers concerning the management of postoperative pain in their hospitalised children (0–3 years). CONCLUSION : Caregivers in this study acknowledged the fact that the postoperative pain experienced by their children had a noteworthy emotional effect on them. CONTRIBUTION : Nurses must adequately educate caregivers on managing postoperative pain in hospitalised children (0–3 years). Again, the nurses must be with the child and the caregiver, as this enhances collaboration and adequate postoperative pain management in these children.
Using infographics to empower nursing students on integrating Ubuntu, HIV/AIDS and TB at a selected University, South Africa
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) Kgatla, M.N.; Ramavhoya, T.I.; Rasweswe, M.M.; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis
BACKGROUND : Nursing students need to be equipped with specific knowledge on integrating Ubuntu, HIV/AIDS, and TB during their training to curb the pandemic in South Africa, specifically Limpopo Province. To stimulate nursing students' critical thinking when caring for patients with HIV/AIDS and TB, the Students integrated Ubuntu principles to communicate care using creativity. OBJECTIVES : To empower students to integrate Ubuntu when caring for patients living with HIV/AIDS and TB through infographics at a selected University in South Africa. METHODS : A qualitative participatory study approach was followed. Data was collected by engaging 25-level 1st and 2nd year Nursing students to design infographics that integrate Ubuntu, HIV/AIDS, and TB during a workshop. The participants were purposively sampled based on their creative skills and understanding of the use of infographics. Textual data from discussions, visual data from infographics, and field notes were triangulated and subjected to thematic analysis. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and ethical issues were implemented. RESULTS : Different infographics on applying Ubuntu principles when caring for patients living with HIV/AIDS and TB were displayed and presented to the audience. Integrating Ubuntu principles, and caring for HIV/AIDS and TB through infographics were based on the knowledge and skills obtained during the workshop. The infographics and interpretations demonstrated that awareness of Ubuntu's principles is closely connected to the quality care of patients living with HIV/AIDS and TB. CONCLUSION : The infographics played an important role in understanding the integration of Ubuntu principles, HIV/AIDS, and TB. CONTRIBUTION : Students were empowered on the use of creativity to understand Ubuntu principles when caring for patients living with HIV/AIDS and TB.
Exploring how mindfulness enhances attentiveness : a qualitative study with South African mental health nurses
(BioMed Central, 2025-05) Ramalisa-Budeli, Rudo; Du Plessis, Emmerentia; Scholtz, Suegnet; rudo.ramalisa@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : This qualitative, constructivist grounded theory addressed the gap in understanding how mental health nurses cultivate attentiveness through mindfulness practices. This was done by examining attentiveness as both an expression of care and a facilitator of human connectedness. DESIGN : Constructivist grounded theory. METHODS : The study population consisted of nurses working in South African psychotherapy wards, where mindfulness was integrated into daily care practices. Three psychiatric hospitals in South Africa were selected, and 11 participants were recruited via nonprobability snowball sampling method. The data were collected between June and November 2021 via virtual and face-to-face individual interviews supplemented with field notes. FINDINGS : Three categories of cultivating attentiveness through mindfulness practices were identified: foundations for fostering attentiveness through mindfulness; mindfulness practices; and the outcomes derived from such practices. These categories exhibited interconnectedness by featuring shared ideas and overlapping themes and subthemes. CONCLUSIONS : When mental health nurses in this study practice mindfulness, they are attentive and develop a deeper understanding of themselves which conveys to patients.
Twelve tips for creating online learning units for the health professions in low-and middle-income countries
(Taylor and Francis, 2024) Brittz, Karli; Botma, Yvonne; Heyns, Tanya
Health professions educators in low-and middle-income countries are often sceptical about developing online learning units. This scepticism stems from the belief that online programmes are limited in developing clinical competence, and there are concerns about digital proficiency and resource availability. A social constructivist approach in designing online work-based learning units may overcome such scepticism. In this article, we use our experience in developing an online learning unit for healthcare education to suggest 12 tips for developing online learning units in a low-and middle-income context. The tips are nested in a ‘promoting theory-practice integration framework’ and include context, establishing communities of learning and practice, establishing foundational knowledge, practise in a work-based environment, and showcasing attainment of learning outcomes. By integrating the guidelines and framework, healthcare educators will be better equipped to develop online learning units and contribute to learning.
A scoping review on the contribution of interprofessional collaborative practices on preventing and managing post-partum haemorrhage in the health care system
(BioMed Central, 2025-04) Zenani, Nombulelo Esme; Tulelo, Patience Mashudu; Netshisaulu, Khathutshelo Grace; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica; Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Gundo, Rudwell; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis
BACKGROUND : Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a complication associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Effective management of PPH relies on the interdependent roles of various healthcare professions to ensure safe, high quality outcomes. This scoping review aims to explore and synthesise literature of the contribution of interprofessional collaboration in preventing and managing postpartum haemorrhage. DESIGN : The review adopted a scoping review methodology underpinned by Arksey and O’Malley’s five stage framework. Four databases (CINHAL, Scopus, PubMed, and Medline) were searched for sources. The inclusion criteria consisted of full-text articles published in English between 2000 and 2024, across various research designs. RESULTS : The review demonstrates that effective interprofessional collaboration has the potential to ensure prompt diagnosis and management of PPH, while also promoting positive patient and team dynamics outcomes. Moreover, interprofessional collaboration optimises resource utilisation and team synergy, with an awareness of each healthcare professional’s role, mutual trust and respect, and shared leadership. CONCLUSION : Preventing and managing PPH depends on highly effective interprofessional collaboration. To promote safe healthcare delivery during PPH emergencies, strengthening interprofessional collaboration practices is encouraged through various measures. These include interprofessional collaborative quality improvement initiatives, team-based PPH protocols, interprofessional situ simulation training, and PPH mock drills. These strategies provide healthcare systems with structures for better preparedness and swift interprofessional collaborative intervention to prevent complications of postpartum haemorrhage.
Empowering a Limpopo rural community to integrate Ubuntu in caring for PLWHIV/AIDS or TB
(AOISIS, 2024-12-03) Ramavhoya, Irene Thifhelimbilu; Kgatla, Nancy Mamoeng; Rasweswe, Melitah Molatelo; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; mavis.mulaudzi@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Globally, few studies were conducted mostly in Africa on Ubuntu and human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS). These studies did not incorporate empowering communities on integrating Ubuntu HIV/AIDS or tuberculosis (TB). As such, this study used empowerment as a tool to raise awareness in the community about how they can integrate Ubuntu when caring for people living with HIV (PLWHIV)/AIDS or TB. OBJECTIVES : This study aimed to empower community members to use Ubuntu philosophy when caring for PLWHIV/AIDS or TB in the rural community of Limpopo province. METHOD : An integrative qualitative research design was used in which data were collected through a workshop with participants. The population was unemployed matriculants, traditional health professionals and community healthcare workers who were purposefully sampled and divided into eight groups. Data were collected through a focus group discussion and analysed using content analysis. Ethical considerations and measures to ensure trustworthiness were followed. RESULTS : Integrating Ubuntu philosophy can reduce stigma, discrimination and lack of disclosure. This might be achieved through humanity, attitude changing and formation of a support group. CONCLUSION : The principles of Ubuntu (caring, sharing, support, humility, attitude change) came up strongly in preventing stigma and discrimination in the care of PLWHIV/AIDS or TB. Contribution: Community empowerment and integration of Ubuntu philosophical values might have a positive impact on improving the social status of PLWHIV or TB, their families and the community at large.
Barriers to effective patient care as experienced by nurses in primary healthcare clinics in African countries : a systematic review of qualitative studies
(BioMed Central, 2025-02) Nesengani, Tintswalo Victoria; Downing, Charlene; Ten Ham-Baloyi, Wilma
BACKGROUND : The essence of adopting the Alma-Ata Declaration (1978) was to ensure that essential and acceptable healthcare services are accessible to individuals and families in the community. However, existing literature points that various factors pose as barriers towards effective caring for patients by nurses in primary healthcare clinics. Identifying factors that pose as barriers in effective caring for patients can assist in using strategies that can help in improving the provision of healthcare services. METHODS : A qualitative systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute’s approach, including the search and selection, critical appraisal, data extraction and synthesis. An extensive literature search was undertaken to identify relevant qualitative research studies research with substantive findings that reflected nurses’ challenges in PHC clinics, conducted in African countries from 2010 to 2024, in the following databases: CINAHL and Medline (through EBSCOhost), BioMed Central, ScienceDirect and Scopus (Elsevier), followed by a manual search in Google Scholar, and a citation search. RESULTS : Following the data extraction and analysis of nine articles, three themes were identified: (1) Shortage of nurses; (2) High workloads for nurses; and (3) Shortage of medicines. A majority of articles were from South Africa (n = 7). CONCLUSIONS : The identified barriers may be addressed at different healthcare system levels in various African countries to improve the provision of healthcare services.
We are on our own : the neglected voices of the boy-child in adolescent sexual and reproductive health in Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa
(Women’s Health and Action Research Centre, 2025-03) Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Seretlo, Raikane J.; Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica; mavis.mulaudzi@up.ac.za
Adolescent reproductive health activities and programmes have been made available to adolescents at schools, non-governmental organisations, and youth-friendly services. However, boys feel neglected as services are mostly catered for girls. This study reflects the neglected voices of a boy-child in Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health in Vhembe District in Limpopo province of South Africa. The study was conducted using a cooperative inquiry design. The data were collected using the Lekgotla discussion method. Data were analysed using NVIVO software version 14 and five steps of thematic analysis were followed during the data analysis. The main themes were as follows: We are on our own, Distorted information on Boko (masturbation); boys don’t get pregnant”; Discussion about sex with elders is taboo; Programmes are centred around a girl-child. The findings revealed that boys felt isolated as they had to rely on friends to teach them methods of preventing pregnancy that can be used by boys, such as masturbation and pulling out. They also felt that discussing sex education with parents and teachers is taboo. It is, therefore, recommended that there is a need for the Department of Health Services to consider having boy-friendly services to assist boys in managing their sexuality.
Experiences of postnatal mothers regarding the implementation of maternal and neonatal referral system guidelines in Mopani District in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
(Women’s Health and Action Research Centre, 2025-02) Mosehla, Kgadi Ruth; Rasweswe, Melitah M.; Peu, Mmapheko Doriccah
South Africa experiences challenges of maternal mortality, caused by pregnancy related conditions. Limpopo Province as one of the provinces in South Africa, is also affected. There are challenges facing obstetric emergency referrals, despite the availability of maternal/neonatal referral system guidelines. Therefore, this study explored the experiences of postnatal mothers aiming at facilitation of prompt referral of obstetric emergencies. Descriptive phenomenological research methods were used. The study was conducted in two selected sites, a maternity unit of a district hospital and a primary healthcare facility (fixed clinic), which is a feeder clinic to the district hospital in a selected sub-district of the Mopani district. Population were eleven (11) postnatal mothers. Purposive sampling was used. Data were collected using in- depth individual face -to- face interviews. Data was analysed using Colaizzi's seven procedural steps. Four essential meanings and their constituents were revealed: postnatal mothers' positive experiences, challenging experiences, consequences of challenges and post-natal mothers' recommendations. Health care facilities to be equipped with adequate, functional, safe, reliable, well equipped obstetrical equipment, material and human resources to facilitate prompt referral of obstetric emergencies.
Adherence, perceptions and knowledge of an HIV PMTCT programme : a mother-baby pair study
(AOSIS, 2025-01) Mabuka, Sthembiso; Lowane, Mygirl P.; Nesengani, Tintswalo Victoria; Simbeni, Thembi V.
BACKGROUND : Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programmes are designed to prevent HIV transmission to infants and children. Despite efforts to achieve this goal, several factors continue to pose challenges. OBJECTIVES : To investigate the level of adherence, perceptions, knowledge, and factors associated with adherence to the PMTCT programme in primary healthcare facilities. METHOD : A descriptive cross-sectional study design and quantitative research approach was used, and clinical records were reviewed to determine the prevalence of seroconverted babies of mothers enrolled in a PMTCT programme for the past 2 years in the community healthcare centres. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS : A total of 341 mother-baby pairs were recruited and took part in the study. Most women (263; 77%), perceived that a pregnant woman living with HIV can transmit the virus to her unborn baby. The following factors were independently associated with non-adherence: being unmarried, the period of maternal HIV diagnosis and initiation on antiretroviral therapy, unsuppressed viral load results, missed clinic appointments, side effects, and getting tired of taking HIV medication. CONCLUSION : This study investigated adherence to and perceptions of all components of the PMTCT programme by pregnant and breastfeeding women in primary healthcare facilities. Despite the significant progress made, maternal and paediatric HIV pandemic pose a challenge to the PMTCT services. There is a need for follow-up research to monitor the ongoing adherence to the PMTCT programme and its long-term impact in reducing the rate of transmission of HIV in mothers.

Browse

Recent Submissions