Authors:Patience O. Legoale, Mashudu Manafe First page: 6 Abstract: Background: Growth monitoring plays an essential role in the development of young children. Anthropometric indices are of utmost importance for healthcare professionals to identify children at risk of inadequate growth and malnutrition.Aim: This study aimed to assess the capturing of the growth indices in the Road to Health Booklets (RTHB) in clinics.Setting: The study was carried out in Mangaung Metropolitan municipal clinics in the Free State province, South Africa.Methods: A descriptive quantitative study was conducted using a checklist to audit 264 RTHBs. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse data.Results: The findings showed that birth weight was recorded in most 99% (n = 262) of the RTHBs. The mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) was not recorded in 58% (n = 153) of the cases during the last visit. Weight-for-Age (WfA) was routinely plotted in 91% (n = 241) of the RTHB. The length or Height-for-Age (LHfA) was plotted in 38% (n = 99) of the RTHB and Weight-for-Length or height (WfLH) was plotted in 31% (n = 81) of the RTHB.Conclusion: The results demonstrated that certain anthropometric measures including MUAC, length, or height were absent from the records of the RTHB. Consequently, RTHB may not be effectively used as a means of evaluating nutritional status, affecting early detection of malnutrition in children.Contribution: The research makes a valuable addition to the existing body of knowledge for monitoring growth and measurement of anthropometric indices in the RTHB, as well as the appropriate execution of these practices. PubDate: 2024-07-12 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2587 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Faheema Kimmie-Dhansay, Nicoline Potgieter, Nanayaa Mprah, Lindeka Msane, Shaza Mowzer, Azraa Mowzer, Nosipho Mthupha, Tamiya Safodien, Mirriam Sindani, Jade Smith, Olwethu Solombela, Zahraa Suliman First page: 7 Abstract: Background: The ethics surrounding the use and sharing of photographs on social media has come under the spotlight as the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPI Act) has come into play.Aim: The aim is to determine the use, ethical practice and sharing of dental photography on social media among qualified and undergraduate oral health practitioners at a dental school in South Africa.Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used on staff and students at the University of the Western Cape’s Dental Faculty in 2022. Chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests were used to determine associations between the different graduation statuses and various demographic factors.Results: From the 80 undergraduate students and 46 qualified oral healthcare practitioners, the majority were aware that photography could be used in dentistry, and 87.3% (n = 110) took photographs of the dental treatments performed on their patients. Only 60.3% of the participants attended an ethical course that addressed issues with social media and digital photography. Almost 80% (n = 100) of the participants did not feel that they needed to mention all the social media platforms that they would use with their patients’ photographs before sharing.Conclusion: Dental photography is being used and sometimes shared on social media platforms by some students and staff at university level. Not all participants have attended an ethical course on clinical photography. Dental training needs to include an ethical course on dental photography and the use of sharing photographs on social media.Contribution: Good ethical practice regarding clinical photographs in all undergraduate and postgraduate curriculums, to eliminate any uncertainty. PubDate: 2024-07-31 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2590 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Daniel O. Ashipala, Emmanuel M. Sapalo, Peneyambeko I. Shikulo First page: 8 Abstract: Background: In a rapidly evolving educational landscape, blended learning is becoming an increasingly popular transition from traditional forms of learning and teaching to e-learning. It is therefore important that lecturers adapt their practice and transform their teaching in line with the online platform in use, as this has the potential to benefit students, lecturers and the institution alike. However, little research exists regarding the perspectives of nurse educators on the use of blended learning as a teaching method.Aim: The study aimed to explore and describe the perspectives of nurse educators on the use of blended learning as a teaching method at the Faculty of Health Sciences at a university in Namibia.Setting: The study was conducted at a public nurse education institution in Namibia.Methods: A qualitative exploratory, descriptive design that was contextual was applied to collect data from a convenient sample of 15 lecturers using semi-structured interviews.Results: Four themes emerged in this study, namely, understanding of blended learning, benefits of utilising blended learning, challenges of utilising blended learning, and recommendations to ensure effective use of blended learning.Conclusion: The study findings identified potential areas of both strengths and shortcomings in nurse educators’ use of blended learning as a teaching and learning strategy.Contribution: These findings may be used to develop ongoing strategies and targeted interventions that can strengthen nurse educators’ abilities to design learning environments that are conducive to blended learning. PubDate: 2024-08-06 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2659 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Kgabo M. Mabotja, Annette van Onselen, Reno E. Gordon First page: 8 Abstract: Background: Assessment of infant feeding knowledge, attitudes and practices of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive breastfeeding mothers may determine compliance with the chosen feeding method.Aim: The study assessed knowledge, attitudes and practices on infant feeding among HIV-positive breastfeeding mothers.Setting: The study was conducted at five clinics in the Chief Albert Luthuli sub-district of Mpumalanga, South Africa.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study with a convenient sample of 155 HIV-positive breastfeeding mothers.Results: More than half of the participants (54.8%) were knowledgeable of exclusive breastfeeding in general. However, less than half were knowledgeable of exclusive breastfeeding in the context of HIV (46.5%), mixed feeding (28.4%) and replacement feeding (49.0%). Most participants (85.8%) reported that they were advised to exclusively breastfeed for 6 months, 61.3% intended to exclusively breastfeed for 6 months, and 29% intended to stop breastfeeding at 6 months. Most participants (64.5%) intended to introduce solids at 6 months, and for participants who intended to introduce solids before 6 months, 37.7% did not believe that exclusive breastfeeding was sufficient for the baby.Conclusion: Although most participants were knowledgeable about exclusive breastfeeding, there were misconceptions that required attention such as the lack of knowledge on exclusive breastfeeding in the context of HIV, mixed feeding and replacement feeding. Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months was the most emphasised infant feeding practice.Contribution: This study builds on existing literature on infant feeding knowledge, attitudes and practices and provides a basis for interventions for improved exclusive breastfeeding rates. PubDate: 2024-07-31 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2617 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Sthembiso P. Mkhize, Sanele Buthelezi, Attah M. Mkhize, Lwandile Tokwe First page: 8 Abstract: Background: The prevailing social constructs of cis-heteronormativity and endosexism have structurally marginalised sexual and gender minorities, leading to their limited representation and inclusion in mainstream health systems and health sciences education.Aim: The study aimed to explore a gay medical student’s perceptions of the health sciences curriculum and their experiences in accessing and utilising healthcare services offered both by the university and externally.Setting: At a university in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.Methods: This study originates from a larger qualitative study conducted in 2018, involving 12 Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT)-identifying participants who were selected using purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The larger study used a case study approach to explore how healthcare services meet the sexual health needs of LGBT youth. Among the 12 sampled participants, one participant self-identified as ‘gay’ and was pursuing a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery. This participant was specifically selected for analysis in this study because of their knowledge of health sciences education and pursuit of a career in healthcare.Results: Three themes were identified in the participant’s interview, including: (1) navigating healthcare services as a young gay man, (2) silenced voices: the impact of the limited Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, Asexual and + (LGBTIQA+) health education, and (3) challenging the silenced voices.Conclusion: There is a need for a well-planned curriculum that includes LGBTIQA+ issues to equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge to provide high-quality care to all patients, regardless of their sex, gender, or sexuality.Contribution: The study provides solid proposals for developing an inclusive healthcare curriculum that considers identities beyond binary going forward. PubDate: 2024-07-31 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2656 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Thandolwakhe Nyangeni, Wilma ten Ham-Baloyi, Dalena R.M. van Rooyen First page: 9 Abstract: Background: Although Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) offer innovative, objective, and fair methods of clinical assessment, their quality is compromised by poor planning and design.Aim: This study aimed to describe the development and present evidence-based recommendations on strengthening the planning and design of OSCEs for a South African public College of Nursing.Setting: A South African public College of Nursing.Methods: Recommendations were developed based on synthesising two sets of qualitative data. Set 1 included two main themes with each of the four sub-themes related to barriers and facilitators towards quality in OSCE designs from 14 nurse educator interviews and 15 external moderator reports. Set 2 included 12 quality measures to be adopted in the quality design of OSCEs derived from an integrative literature review. The draft recommendations were reviewed by eight experts to be finalised.Results: Seven recommendations were developed for strengthening OSCEs’ planning and design, related to: (1) policy framework, standard operating procedures and stakeholder code of conduct; (2) blueprinting and mapping of the OSCE content; (3) developing a bank of OSCE stations; (4) scoring rubric and standard-setting method selection; (5) examiners and standardised patients’ recruitment and training; (6) venue selection; and (7) station piloting.Conclusion: The seven developed recommendations can strengthen the quality of OSCEs in the South African public College of Nursing context.Contribution: The developed recommendations can assist nurse educators in planning and designing to conduct quality OSCEs following piloting and implementation. PubDate: 2024-08-07 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2693 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Pretty T. Moloi, Rakgadi G. Malapela First page: 9 Abstract: Background: Unintended pregnancies pose various challenges for adolescent girls and can be prevented through contraceptive use. However, contraceptive use among adolescents is lower compared to among older women.Aim: To describe adolescent girls’ perceptions of the use of contraceptives.Setting: Two high schools in Tembisa were selected as the study setting.Methods: Purposive sampling was used to select adolescent girls who had reached menarche and were willing to participate. Data collection involved narrative writing for girls under 16 and interviews for older adolescents. Braun and Clark’s six-step method was used for data analysis.Results: A total of 35 adolescent girls were identified, and the final sample size was N = 33 adolescent girls whose ages ranged from 13 to 18 years. Two main themes emerged. Theme 1 was positive perceptions of contraceptives. Theme 1 was supported by two subthemes: the first was the influence of the male partner; the second was financial constraints in families. The second theme was negative perceptions of contraceptives. Four subthemes supported the second main theme, which were: myths and misconceptions, influence of parents, healthcare worker attitudes and negative attitudes of community members.Conclusion: Addressing the low contraceptive uptake among adolescent girls requires understanding their perceptions to tailor interventions accordingly.Contribution: The study contributes by highlighting the negative perceptions of contraceptive use, including family financial constraints and the influence of male partners. These findings can inform reproductive health initiatives aimed at increasing contraceptive use among adolescents. PubDate: 2024-07-24 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2580 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Gopolang Gause, Rachel T. Lebese, Fhumulani M. Mulaudzi, Molekodi J. Matsipane, Seepaneng S. Moloko-Phiri, Shonisani Tshivhase First page: 9 Abstract: Background: Theatre involves expressing meaning in a collaborative art using words, movements, and visual elements. However, theatre remains poorly used as a viable teaching strategy or a method for communicating health messages. Instead, it is relegated to solemnly transmitting indigenous knowledge.Aim: To explore and describe communication of educational health messages through theatre using an appreciative inquiry approach.Setting: The study was conducted among the Ubuntu theatre group from a rural province in South Africa. The group is famous for using theatre to communicate educational health messages through the lens of Ubuntu philosophy.Methods: A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was followed. A non-probability purposive sampling was used to select thirteen members of the Ubuntu theatre group. Data were collected by two moderators from the two focus group discussions through conference calls. Deductive thematic content data analysis was used to describe the 4-Ds of appreciative inquiry.Results: Theatre is a playful pedagogy that can cut through language and cultural barriers when used to communicate educational health messages. There is a need to formalise it as an alternative pedagogy within the health care sciences curriculum. Furthermore, the sustainability of theatre as an educational tool is dependent on expanding educational practices, documenting its success stories and periodical in-service training.Conclusion: Using Ubuntu innovation to communicate complex educational health messages through theatre can maximise learning. This study recommends that Ubuntu-infused health messages be conveyed using theatre.Contribution: The study adds to the body of knowledge by presenting Ubuntu innovation in communicating health messages through theatre. PubDate: 2024-07-10 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2622 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Adele Neethling, Madeleen Rheeder-Jooste, Won-Li Richardson, Lizeth Roets First page: 9 Abstract: Background: Student nurse education focusses on preparing competent professionals integral to nursing teams.Aim: To develop strategic actions to include student nurses within the nursing team.Setting: A private healthcare group in South Africa.Methods: A qualitative approach in three phases was used. Thirty purposively sampled participants recorded reflective journals in phase one. Tesch’s eight steps were utilised for analysis. Phase two involved non-probability volunteer sampling of 11 participants for the nominal group technique analysis. In phase three, total population sampling recruited nine panellists for an e-Delphi technique that provided data that were open coded.Results: Phase one identified themes, including perceptions of responsibilities, support needs, recognition, conflict and communication issues. Phase two revealed five strategic actions: fair treatment, aligned work allocation, active participation, respect and acknowledgement of contributions. Phase three validated 19 strategic statements underpinning the strategic actions.Conclusion: Unit managers play a key role in fostering inclusivity, impacting student nurse retention.Contribution: Enhancing team cohesion can improve workplace wellness and patient outcomes while aiding in retention and recruitment efforts. PubDate: 2024-07-09 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2533 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
Authors:Shillah N. Hundah, Maureen N. Sibiya, Thandokuhle E. Khoza First page: 9 Abstract: Background: Health crises have been linked with the exacerbation of pre-existing difficulties and the emergence of unique challenges, as evidenced by the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on health caregivers worldwide. Baseline data allow for reflection and preparation for any future health emergencies therefore giving impetus to phenomenological enquiries among the experiencers.Aim: This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of the eThekwini district frontline radiology caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic.Setting: The study was conducted in public and private radiology departments in the eThekwini district of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.Methods: A qualitative, interpretative phenomenological analysis methodology was adopted in a multi-method data-collection context comprising semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) among 24 radiologists, radiographers, and radiology nurses obtained by non-probability sampling. Data were transcribed verbatim and analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach.Results: Three superordinate themes emerged, namely: (1) duties and roles during the COVID-19 pandemic, (2) work-related challenges, (3) personal challenges.Conclusion: Frontline radiology caregivers experienced increased workload, staff shortages, salary cuts, personal protective equipment (PPE) shortages, non-recognition, poor managerial support, disrupted social relations, and poor work–life balance. This necessitates the need for the radiology departments to address staffing, infection prevention and control deficits, and invest in support interventions to assist frontline radiology caregivers during health crises.Contribution: The findings comprise baseline information that can be used for reflection and guiding radiology departments in preparing for any future health crises. PubDate: 2024-07-08 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v29i0.2532 Issue No:Vol. 29 (2024)
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