School of Medicine, Health & Life Sciences
Permanent URI for this communityhttps://ir.kcu.ac.ug/handle/20.500.14433/6
School of Medicine
Browse
53 results
Search Results
Item Assessment of Level of Job Satisfaction And The Associated Factors Among Nurses In Uganda, A Case Of Nurses At Mulago National Referral Hospital (Mnrh), Uganda(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-24) Awor Molly & Kaweesa Simon Peter.Job satisfaction among nurses is known to be a crucial element in ensuring quality patient care and staff retention. The term generally refers to the degree to which people feel about their job and the different aspects of the job, which results from a combination of factors that are known to be both extrinsic and intrinsic. The overall aim of the study was ‘to assess the level of job satisfaction and the associated factors among Nurses in Mulago National Referral Hospital’. The study employed a quantitative survey method for investigation with a sample size identified using a combination of purposive and convenience sampling methods. Data were collected using a self-filled questionnaire. The study was guided and analyzed based on Herzberg’s two-factor conceptual framework that divides relevant factors into satisfaction and dissatisfaction factors. Satisfaction factors (also called satisfier, intrinsic, or motivator factors) make people satisfied and motivated include Achievement, Recognition, Work itself, Responsibility, Advancement, and Growth’; and dissatisfaction factors (also called hygiene or extrinsic factors) include Working conditions, Co-worker relations, and rules, Salary, Company policies, Supervision, Interpersonal relations, Status, and Job security. The study findings indicated a satisfactory level of job satisfaction among Nurses in Mulago National Referral Hospital with predictive variables of sex, marital status, working hours, and working conditions as significantly associated with overall job satisfaction. The author recommends the development of policy guidelines to facilitate a reward system; prioritization of conducive working conditions; and upscaling of research on job satisfaction targeting both private and public health facilities at national and regional levels including training institutions for a sustainable bridge to job satisfaction levels. Keywords: Job Satisfaction; Nurses Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors;Item Clinical Waste Management in Heaqlth Facilities: Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices In Mulago National Referral Hospital, Pediatric Wards.(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-24) Night Clare & Dr. Martin Odoki.The study investigated the health workers’ knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding clinical waste management in the Mulago Hospital pediatric ward. The specific Objectives of the Study were; to examine workers’ knowledge about clinical waste management in the Mulago Hospital Pediatric Ward to determine the attitudes of healthcare workers about clinical management in the Mulago Hospital Pediatric Ward and to identify health workers’ practice about clinical management in the Mulago Hospital Pediatric Ward. The research employed a descriptive, cross-sectional design with quantitative research approaches. Data collection methods include questionnaires and key informant interviews. The sample size comprises 52 participants, including health workers at Mulago National Referral Hospital. The study revealed that the respondents demonstrate a strong understanding of key aspects such as standards and regulations, waste categorization, and proper segregation and disposal practices. However, there are areas where knowledge could be improved, particularly in responding to blood exposure accidents and segregating sharp clinical waste. The findings revealed that a significant proportion of respondents agreed with the importance of proper waste handling. For example, 56% believed that waste management in the pediatric ward is proper, indicating confidence in current practices. Additionally, 60% affirmed that waste management is their duty, reflecting a strong sense of responsibility. Respondents also demonstrated awareness of safety measures in waste management, with 77% agreeing that waste must be collected carefully. Moreover, 62% advocated for consistent glove usage to prevent exposure-related risks. The study findings also revealed that there is a mixed level of adherence to recommended practices. A significant proportion consistently use rubber gloves during medical services, indicating a positive approach to protecting against exposure to hazardous materials. Additionally, there is strong compliance with proper disposal practices for sharp clinical waste, with a majority consistently using hard containers. Respondents also demonstrate proactive behavior in promptly addressing spills of liquid clinical waste. However, areas for improvement exist, particularly regarding the consistent use of personal protective equipment when picking up trash and ensuring thorough hand hygiene after contact with medical waste. Finally, it was recommended that the hospital administration should ensure that adequate resources, including personal protective equipment (PPE), waste disposal containers, and signage, are readily available to support safe waste management practices. Investing in these resources not only enhances safety but also reinforces the positive attitudes observed among healthcare workers toward waste management. Keywords: Clinical Waste Management; Health Workers; Mulago Hospital Pediatric WardItem Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices Of Nurses In Resuscitating Casualties Involved In Road Traffic Accidents In Uganda: A Case Of Mulago National Referral Hospital(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-24) Ainembabazi Sylivia & Nsenga Marcella.According to the World Health Organization WHO (2022), Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) stand as the primary cause of mortality among individuals aged 5 to 29 worldwide. Uganda faces significant challenges, including a 42% increase in accidents in 2021. Effective resuscitation is crucial in mitigating mortality and disability resulting from RTAs, underscoring the importance of assessing nurses' competencies and attitudes in emergency care provision. The purpose of the study was to establish the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nurses, in resuscitating road traffic accident casualties, in the Accident and Emergency Ward, Mulago National Referral Hospital Uganda. The study utilized a cross-sectional descriptive design. Purposive sampling selected 36 registered nurses; data was collected using structured questionnaires and observation checklists. Ethical considerations were upheld, and dissemination plans included conferences, publications, and library submissions. The study revealed nurses' demographics as 24(66.7%) aged 30-40 years, 29(80.6%) female. Most hold a Diploma 21(58.3%) and have over 10 years of experience 20(55.6%). Regarding knowledge, 22(61.1%) knew CPR, and 31(86.1%) understood compression-to-ventilation ratio. Attitudes varied: 20(55.6%) felt prepared, while 11(30.6%) agreed on promptly responding to RTA emergencies. Practices showed 20(55.6%) encountering RTA casualties frequently, but only 12(33.3%) monitored deterioration signs effectively. Overall, 30(83.3%) rated their performance positively. The majority of nurses demonstrated a high level of knowledge and positive attitudes toward the management of RTA emergencies; however, there are evident gaps in practice. Addressing these gaps requires comprehensive training programs focusing on trauma management and resuscitation techniques, emphasizing hands-on training and continuous professional development opportunities. There is a need to develop strategies to promote a proactive attitude towards preparedness and prompt response to RTA emergencies among nurses Keywords: Road Traffic Accidents; Nurses' Competencies; Emergency ResuscitationItem Healthcare professionals’ knowledge of and compliance with the ASCO/ESMO/GLIM guidelines for the diagnosis and management of cancer cachexia (CC): the ASSIST-CC baseline findings in Uganda.(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-26) Atuhe, I., Jatho, A., Nalwadda, B., Asasira, J., Nantayi, M., Semujju, J., & Orem, J.Background: More than 50% of people with advanced cancer suffer from cancer-related cachexia (CC) – a major contributor to morbidity and mortality. Despite the lack of local guidelines on CC diagnosis and management in Uganda, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) and the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) developed guidelines on CC screening and management. However, the level of knowledge on CC and compliance with the available guidelines among Ugandan oncology health professionals is unknown. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness and knowledge of CC diagnosis and management and compliance with the ASCO/ESMO/GLIM guidelines on CC among healthcare professionals (HCPs) involved in the care of cancer patients. Methods: In this phase one, a self-administered structured questionnaire developed using the ASCO/ESMO and GLIM guidelines on diagnosis and management of CC was used to assess the level of awareness, and knowledge of 200 health professionals from three hospital settings on CC, and compliance with the ASCO/ESMO/GLIM guidelines on CC related core communication, barriers to communication, clinician training in communication, discussing goals of care, treatment options and meeting the needs of the underserved populations. The data were entered into Research Electronic Data Capture software and analyzed using STATA version 18.0 software. Results: The overall objectively correct knowledge score of CC diagnosis criteria was 67.5% (n = 135), yet there was a much lower level of awareness about ASCO/ESMO/GLIM guidelines on CC at 30% (n = 60) and only 21% (n = 42) of the HCPs have ever assessed Quality of life of CC patients. The compliance with ASCO/ESMO/GLIM guidelines on nutritional interventions for patients with CC varied across the variables markedly, ranging from 25.1% (n = 50) to 81% (n = 162) for the specific ASCO/ESMO/GLIM guidelines’ recommendations. Whereas compliance with the guidelines on discussing goals of care, prognosis, treatment options, and end-of-life care scored the highest in most variables, most HCPs exhibited low compliance with the discussion about patients’ end-of-life preferences early in the course of incurable illness (49.8%, n = 99). There were statistically significant differences between the mean scores of only two variables among the three hospitals in compliance with ASCO/ESMO/GLIM guidelines on the provision of additional calories by feeding tubes (p = 0.038), and the available evidence to recommend medication to improve CC outcomes (p = 0.0286). On discussing goals of care, prognosis, treatment options, and end-of-life care there was a statistically significant difference between the mean scores of only one variable; clinician’s simplicity of providing information to patients (p = 0.0132) among the HCPs in the three hospital settings. Conclusion: This study indicated that the overall objectively correct knowledge of CC diagnosis criteria was inadequate, with a much lower level of awareness about the ASCO/ESMO/GLIM guidelines on CC and a handful of the HCPs have ever assessed the quality of life of CC patients. Quality improvement interventions on CC diagnosis and management should prioritize improving the level of knowledge on CC, diagnostic criteria, and patient-clinician communication, including discussion about patients’ end-of-life care using standardized tools such as ASCO/ESMO or GLIM guidelines on CC using a multidisciplinary team approach. Keywords: cancer cachexia, cancer cachexia diagnosis, cancer cachexia managementItem Factors Influencing Child Sexual Abuse In Mulago Zone, Kampala City, Uganda(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-24) Kihembo Hilder & Amos Ronald KalukusuChild sexual abuse is a significant concern in Mulago Zone, Kampala City, Uganda, with local police records indicating an average of 54 reported cases weekly. This study aimed to understand the factors contributing to this issue. Through interviews with 60 residents, we explored family dynamics, child-related factors, and cultural influences associated with child sexual abuse. Our findings revealed that factors such as parental substance abuse, domestic violence, and parental mental health significantly increased the risk of child sexual abuse, as evidenced by Adjusted Odds Ratios (AORs) of 1.75, 1.42, and 1.63, respectively. Additionally, children's age, gender, and previous abuse history were influential, with corresponding chi-square (χ²) values indicating statistical significance (p < 0.05). Cultural norms, including patriarchal values and media portrayals of violence, also played a role, with associated AORs and chi-square values. We recommend targeted interventions, including legal reforms, improved healthcare services, and community awareness programs, to address these root causes and safeguard children's well-being. Keywords: Child Sexual Abuse; Risk Factors; Mulago ZoneItem Item Utilization of Information Communication Technology in Health Management Information System at Mulago Specialized National Referral Hospital, Uganda.(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-24) Ngabirano Ronah & Marcella NsengaGlobally, ICT integration in healthcare systems like Uganda has significantly improved patient care and administrative effectiveness, driven by real-time data access, telemedicine, and electronic health records, which could transform healthcare delivery. The purpose of this study was to assess the level and factors associated with the utilization and integration of Information and Communication Technology in Health Management Information Systems at the Medical and Surgical Outpatient Departments of Mulago Specialized National Referral Hospital where there is a large number of referrals attending different specialties. This study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional design to comprehensively explore the factors associated with ICT utilization in HMIS which employed convenience and purposive sampling methods. The study of 110 participants included Administrators, IT personnel, Records assistants, Doctors, and Nurses working in the Medical and Surgical departments at Block D, Mulago Specialized National Referral Hospital. Data was collected for 2 weeks from 1st December to 15th December 2023. Univariate and bivariate analysis was done and the level of significance was set at a p-value < 0.05. The study revealed that a majority of healthcare professionals were above 35 years of age (58.2%), representing diverse educational backgrounds and professions. Experience of over 10 years was common among participants. Regarding ICT integration, 52.7% lacked integration, while 47.3% actively integrated. Individual factors indicated high awareness of ICT training (68.2%) but low supervisors’ support (19.1%). Health-system factors highlighted limited infrastructures and major barriers such as inadequate financial support. In conclusion, the integration of Information Communication Technology (ICT) into Mulago Specialized National Referral Hospital's Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) is limited, with a significant association between medical doctors and ICT integration. The key factors are age, education, poor infrastructure, inadequate knowledge, staff workload pressure, digital illiteracy, and insufficient funding. Therefore, there is a need to enhance the effective incorporation of technology into health information management systems in Mulago Specialized National Referral Hospital, Uganda. Keywords: ICT Integration; Health Management Information Systems (HMIS); Healthcare DeliveryItem Factors Associated With Visual Impairment Among Individuals Reporting At Mulago Hospital Eye Clinic In Uganda.(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-24) Kyarimpa Margret Allen & Amos Ronald KalukusuThe study investigated visual impairment among individuals reporting at Mulago Hospital Eye Clinic in Uganda the objectives included; - Determining the prevalence of visual impairment, assessing the socio-demographic factors associated with visual impairment, and ascertaining the clinical factors associated with visual impairment among individuals. The study employed a cross-sectional study design employing quantitative data collection methods with data collected from 384 respondents. The study findings revealed that the prevalence of visual impairment among respondents undergoing visual acuity testing has implications for screening practices, healthcare resource allocation, quality consideration, and public health interventions aimed at addressing visual health issues within the studied population. The findings related to smoking and alcohol consumption highlight health behavior patterns among the respondents. The high proportion of respondents who reported not smoking or consuming alcohol may suggest healthier lifestyle choices, which could positively impact overall health, including eye health. The type of fuel used for cooking also shows a significant association with visual impairment. This finding may be linked to indoor air pollution resulting from the combustion of certain fuels, which can contribute to eye health issues such as irritation, dryness, or exacerbation of existing eye conditions The study drew the following conclusions that visual impairment was high among the older individuals (>54 years) compared to the younger individuals (18-25 years). Using kerosene as the main source of fuel for cooking was found to have a positive association with visual impairment. The study recommended that; - the government of Uganda should focus on effective, efficient, comprehensive eye healthcare services by integrating them with the national health system to prevent avoidable visual impairment among patients. The risk factor analysis demonstrated that drinking alcohol and having certain chronic diseases rendered an individual more likely to suffer from the onset of visual impairment, which suggests that changes in lifestyle and behaviors and the aggressive prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of systemic diseases are likely to reduce the burden of visual impairment. Keywords: Visual Impairment; Socio-Demographic Factors; Clinical FactorsItem Analysis Of The Relationship Associated With Poor Health Outcomes Among Tuberculosis Patients Attending Semuto Health Centre IV, Nakaseke District, Uganda.(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-24) Nantale Esther & Amos Ronald KalukusuTuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to identify patient-related, treatment-related, and socio economic factors associated with poor health outcomes among TB patients attending Semuto Health Centre IV in Nakaseke District, Uganda. A total of 384 TB patients were included in the study. Data were collected through interviews and medical record reviews. Descriptive statistics, adjusted odds ratios (AOR), chi-square tests, and p-values were used to analyze the data. The results revealed that patient-related factors, including age, gender, education level, and occupation, significantly influenced health outcomes among TB patients. Notably, older age (>45 years) was associated with a higher risk of poor health outcomes (AOR = 1.75, p < 0.05). Treatment-related factors, such as treatment adherence and drug side effects, were also found to impact health outcomes. Patients who reported non-adherence to treatment had a significantly increased risk of poor health outcomes (AOR = 2.12, p < 0.01). Additionally, socio-economic factors, including employment status and household income, played a significant role in determining health outcomes. Unemployed patients were more likely to experience poor health outcomes compared to employed patients (AOR = 1.63, p < 0.05). These findings underscore the importance of addressing multi-dimensional factors in TB care and management to improve health outcomes among TB patients. Targeted interventions focusing on patient education, treatment adherence support, and socio-economic empowerment may help mitigate the risk of poor health outcomes among TB patients attending Semuto Health Centre IV in Nakaseke District, Uganda. Further research is warranted to explore additional factors influencing TB treatment outcomes and to develop comprehensive strategies for TB control and prevention in resource-limited settings. Keywords: Tuberculosis; Health Outcomes; Socio-Economic FactorsItem Congenital Abnormalities And The Existential Threat Towards Expectant Mothers In Uganda: A KAP Study At Kawempe National Referral Hospital(King Ceasor University, Institutional Repository, 2024-07-24) Atwine Agatha and Amos Ronald KalukusuThe study investigated congenital abnormalities and the existential threat to expectant mothers attending the ANC clinic at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. The specific Objectives of the Study were; To assess the knowledge of expectant mothers attending the ANC clinic about congenital abnormalities at Kawempe National Referral Hospital; To assess the risk factors of congenital abnormalities towards expectant mothers attending the ANC clinic at Kawempe National Referral Hospital and to examine the practices of expectant mothers attending ANC clinic about congenital abnormalities at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. The research employed a descriptive, cross-sectional design with both quantitative and qualitative components. Data collection methods included questionnaires and key informant interviews. The sample size comprised 153 participants, including expectant mothers and key informants including those in charge of the ANC clinic and obstetric and Gynecologists working in the ANC clinic at Kawempe National Referral Hospital. The study revealed that a considerable percentage exhibited uncertainty regarding the role of environmental risks, highlighting a knowledge gap that requires targeted educational interventions. Furthermore, perceptions about contraceptive pills and their association with congenital abnormalities showed a significant portion expressing concerns, emphasizing the need for comprehensive education to dispel misconceptions. Additionally, study findings on the risk factors of congenital abnormalities in expectant mothers revealed diverse perceptions and uncertainties. Environmental risks, contraceptive pills, un-prescribed drugs, pesticide exposure, family history, and maternal health conditions were examined. The findings from the practices of expectant mothers attending the ANC clinic about congenital abnormalities at Kawempe National Referral Hospital provided insights into varied behaviors and attitudes. Participants demonstrated commendable practices such as washing vegetables and fruits before eating at home. However, there were concerning attitudes toward the emotional impact of congenital abnormalities, alcohol and smoking habits, religious beliefs, and the willingness to seek emotional support and counseling. Finally, it was recommended that the hospital's healthcare education team spearhead the development and implementation of customized educational workshops. These workshops should be tailored to the specific needs identified in the study, providing comprehensive information on congenital abnormalities. Additionally, the hospital's communications and outreach team should take charge of creating easily understandable informational pamphlets and materials. It was also recommended that to effectively address the identified risk factors of congenital abnormalities, ANC service providers and hospital management should integrate regular health talks during ANC Clinic visits. These health talks should focus on discussing environmental risks, contraceptive methods, and the significance of maternal health conditions in preventing congenital abnormalities. Additionally, collaborations with local pharmacies should be established under the leadership of hospital management and local pharmacy associations. Keywords: Congenital Abnormalities, Expectant Mothers, ANC Clinic