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  • ItemEmbargo
    Factors Leading to Low Utilization of PMTCT Services at Rubaare Health Centre IV in Rubaare Town Council Ntungamo District.
    (Kabale University, 2019) Muhairwe, Robert
    This book is about the research findings on the factors leading to the low level of utilization of PMTCT services at Rubaare Health Centre IV, in Rubaare Town Council, Ntungamo District which is in Western Uganda. The respondents in the research were 50 and included 40 pregnant mothers, 10 lactating mothers, and 10 health workers. The study was guided by both general and specific objectives. The general objective was to establish the factors leading to low utilization of PMTCT services whereas the specific objectives were to assess how the level of awareness has contributed to PMTCT service utilization, establish the impact of staffing, and find out the availability of drugs and utilization of PMTCT services. The study used cross-sectional, simple random, and snowball. The study also used self-administered questionnaires, interview guides, and observations The following were the results: On the level of awareness those who did not know about PMTCT services 29/42 (70%) while13/42 (30%) had some knowledge about PMTCT services. The impact of staffing the number of health workers at a health facility was less than 5 which accounts for 24/40 (60%) followed by none with 10/40 (25%) while above 5 came in third position with 4/40 (10%) and lastly, only 2 with 2/40 (5%), on the drug availability and utilization drugs were not available at the health facility which accounts for 22/40 (55%) and those who said drugs are always there were only 18/40 ( 45% ). The study concluded that low levels of awareness, inadequate drug supply, and understaffing at health facilities were found to as the major factors affecting mothers accessing and utilizing PMTCT services. The following were the recommendations: Massive sensitization of the people about PMTCT services, the government particularly the Ministry of Health to ensure a steady supply of the required drugs for both mothers and children who seek PMTCT services at the health facility.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Health Workers Towards Hepatitis B Virus Infection Prevention in Health Centers of Bushenyi District.
    (Kabale University, 2018) Byamukama, Julius
    Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in the health setting is a global public health problem. The risk of occupational exposure to HBV among healthcare workers is a major concern, especially among students in health professions and health workers in health centers. In Uganda Bushenyi district, very little is known about the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of health workers in the health centers towards Hepatitis B virus prevention. Thus, the purpose of this study. Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of health workers in the health centers towards Hepatitis B virus infection prevention. A cross-sectional study technique was used from April 2018 to June 2018 and a total of 246 healthcare professionals from health centers of Bushenyi district were included in the study using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire and analyzed by using SPSS version 20, which presented tables and charts in this report. The majority of the study participants, (>80 %) had a piece of adequate knowledge of risk factors for HBV, its mode of transmission, and prevention. 83.3 % of participants had a positive attitude. following infection control guidelines, and 201 (81.7 %) respondents believe that all healthcare workers should take the HBV vaccine. However, only 5 (2 %) health workers had completed the three doses schedule of HBV vaccination. Whereas, a significant number of health workers, 66 (26.8 %), had been exposed to blood/body fluid through needle stick injuries at least once since they started their duties in the health facility. Despite the wide professional background of the study, my results showed that overall knowledge regarding HBV prevention, and its mode of transmission was high at (86.2 %). Most respondents knew that exposure to infected blood or body fluid, contaminated needles, contact with non-intact skin, or unsafe sexual contacts were risk factors for HBV infection. This finding was consistent with the previous study from Cameroon that reported a good knowledge of the study participants on HBV infection. However, it was higher than the 56.2 % knowledge levels at Haramaya University Ethiopia, 59 % from Iraq, and 14.5 % from Lao DPR. Nevertheless, I found that a relatively lower proportion of health workers knew that HBV has treatments (52.4 %) and post-exposure prophylaxis (67.1 %). This indicates that there is a need to alleviate the gaps as these might affect behaviors in seeking medical attention. In conclusion, my study found that health workers are at a very high risk of contracting HBV infection during their training owing to the low HBV vaccine uptake rate and high rate of accidental exposure to blood. Thus, we recommend that all health workers in the health centers should be vaccinated before they enter into health professional practices.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Factors Influencing Human Waste Management in Sanga Town Council- Kiruhura District.
    (Kabale University, 2022) Mugasha, Bindyomunda Athur
    The purpose of this study was to investigate the factors influencing human waste management in Sanga Town Council, Kiruhura District so as to develop appropriate interventions. It was guided by the following objectives: to investigate the environmental factors influencing human waste management in Sanga Town Council, to assess the socio cultural factors responsible for human waste management in Sanga Town Council., to determine the possible interventions geared towards improvement of human waste management in Sanga Town Council. The study used a cross sectional study which employed both qualitative and quantitative method of data collection. The study populations were the residents of Kyamani, Byembogo, Kasharara and Kakagati villages. Respondents consisted of household heads in the selected villages who responded to the questionnaire and key informants responded to the interview guide to answer questions on human waste management. Data from questionnaires also revealed that there were environmental factors which influence human wastes management and they include vectors and vermin which was represented by 26%, nature of soil with 40%, construction materials with 30% and there were other factors which was presented by 4%. The study recommends that there should be support and advice from government officials in order to develop and increase human waste collection and waste management methods. Environmental officer, community development officer and other stakeholders should maintain support through engaging every household in sanitation programmes with in Sanga town council.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Assessing the Level of Awareness on Wash Related Diseases in Kaliro Town Council Kaliro District, Uganda. Masanja Alex
    (Kabale University, 2022) Masanja, Alex
    The Purpose of this study was to assess the level of awareness on wash related diseases in Kaliro Town Council, Kaliro District so as to design and apply appropriate strategic measures to prevent WASH related diseases. It was guided by the following objectives; to assess the level of awareness on sanitation and hygiene in Kaliro Town Council, to determine WASH related diseases in Kaliro Town Council, to assess the existing strategies for prevention and control of WASH related diseases in Kaliro Town Council. The study research design was cross sectional in nature Both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed to collect data. 295 members formed the target population while the simple random sampling was used to select the respondents. Interviewing, Questionnaire and observation methods were used to collect data. Results from the study revealed that out of 291 respondents, 235 (80.8%) have access to hand washing facilities. Only 56 (19.2%) of the respondents answered No which means that they had no hand washing facilities installed a factor that would hinder them from washing their hands. The study recommends that further community sensitization should be implemented Kaliro Town council Health department to create awareness on proper disease prevention and control strategies and ensure behavior change in the households and community at large.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Factors Affecting Male Involvement in Family Planning at Kazo Health Center IV in Kazo Town Council Kazo District.
    (Kabale University, 2022) Ndyaguma, Laban
    The study was about factors affecting male involvement in family planning at kazo health center iv in Kazo town council Kazo district. The study was guided by the following study objectives: To find out the level of male involvement family usage, relationship between male involvement and family planning utilization and to devise means of increasing male involvement in family planning in Kazo town council . A cross sectional research design was used for this study where both quantitative and qualitative methods were employed, the population of the study included Women, Men, health staff and local leaders. The study revealed that there is low involvement in family planning to the extent that some men have never a companied their wife to the family planning clinic, claiming that they have no time to escort their wives for family planning saying that they are busy looking for money than going with their wives to clinics, more still men some lack information about the use of family planning other than use of condoms. Also male involvement in family planning has a positive influence in their utilization when male involvement increases family planning utilization among married couples increases and vise verse. Among the views pointed out by the respondent's on men's participation in family planning as highlighted in the study also agreed with the related literature like culture factors, religious beliefs, social economic factors and psychological factors, Also suggested some other reasons like Ignorance lack of time false myth and fear of family planning side effects as mentioned by the majority of respondents as discussed during a focus group discussion where they mentioned that condoms cause cancer. Men need more information and education so that they can fully participate in family planning services, support their partners and utilize the services and that Health care providers should conduct workshops or hold social gatherings and inform men about family planning and its importance. On recommendation the government should establishment of men's clinics so that men can feel free to go and utilize the services. The services should be user friendly to men in order to be utilized to the maximum Male only clinics should inform men about all family planning methods and provide condoms and vasectomy and counsel men with respect and sensitivity, more so Education, men need a lot of information on family planning so that they are well informed.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Factors Affecting Utilization of Insecticide Treated Nets in Households Among Children Under Five Years of Age in Kazo Town Council, Kazo District.
    (Kabale University, 2022) Tumwebaze, Rodgers
    The study was carried on factors affecting utilization of insecticide treated nets in household’s song children under five years of age in Kazo town council, Kazo district. It was based on the owing to find out the socio-economic and cultural factors affecting the utilization of ITNs ~ng children under-five, to identify the institutional factors affecting the utilization of ITNs among children under-five and to establish knowledge of care takers in the utilization of ITNs among children under-five in Kazo Town Council. Methodology: A cross-sectional research design which was both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection. Approaches were used. Sample size of 92 respondents was -"nsidered which comprised of parents/care takers of under five children and other key informants like, health workers. VHTs and town council health inspector. Information was .:ollected from 92 respondents using questionnaires and interviews. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21 to generate both descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study findings indicate that significant socio-economic factors affect utilization of ITNs within households and these include; gender of the household head (p= .017), age of household head (p = .005), level of education; (p< .001) religion(p = .031), household size(p=0.028), income status(p= .031 ), number of children below 5(p= .002), gender of the child(p = .026), age of the child(p = .001), presence of fever a month before the survey and sleeping arrangement(p = .046). The study also identified significant cultural factors affecting the utilization of ITNs among children under-five years to be; misconceptions about malaria and its prevention(p=.017), cultural beliefs(p= .033), poor perception and attitude(p< .001).The study further identified the institutional factors affecting the utilization of ITNs among children under-five years to be awareness (p=.011), access/availability(p= .012), poor coverage(p .031), level of financial investment in ITN distribution(p = .041) and poor quality nets(p .049). Conclusion: There are significant socio-economic, cultural and institutional factors affecting utilization of insecticide in Kazo Town Council. The study recommended that plans be made to increase the number of free ITN s distributed to households, increase in community education and public awareness on ITN use.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Factors Affecting Immunization Coverage for Children Under Five Years in Rwanyamahembe Sub-County, Mbarara District- Uganda.
    (Kabale University, 2022) Omia, Santos
    The study was focusing on the factors affecting immunization coverage for children under five years taking Rwanyamahembe sub-county, Mbarara district as a case study. The specific objectives were to; determine the level of expanded program on immunization (EPI) service coverage, identify socio-demographic and institutional factors affecting with EPI service coverage. The study adopted cross- sectional study design employing a quantitative approach for data collection. Information was gathered from 120 respondents using questionnaire and interview guide. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 18 to generate both descriptive and regression statistics. The study found out the level of expanded program on immunization (EPI) service coverage to be relatively low as evidenced by few respondents who had children that are fully vaccinated as compared to majority who did not complete vaccination. The study also identified socio-demographic factors affecting EPl service coverage in the area such as lack of information about immunization, age of the mother/guardian. level of education. negative experiences with immunisation, possession of vaccination cards, sex of the child and accessibility of vaccination sites. The study further identified inadequate funding of the program, perceived shortage of staff, cost of vaccination and vaccination cards, inadequate supply of vaccine stock, inadequate vaccination sites and corruption and embezzlement of funds as the main institutional factors affecting with EPI service coverage. As a result of the significant results, the study concludes that EPI service coverage in Rwanyamahembe sub-county is low due to different socio-demographic and institutional factors. It therefore recommends the provision of vaccine related targeted health education to mothers at home and during ANC visits is an effective strategy to improve immunization completion rates in low literacy and income settings. Supervision of immunization activities by the district EPI focal person. This is key in identifying gaps during static and outreach programs. Emphasis on vaccinators arriving on time and all services given to mothers without a cost.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Factors Leading to Malnutrition in Children Under Five Years in Nyamwamba Division, Kasese Municipality, Kasese District.
    (Kabale University, 2021) Kabugho, Mary Consolata
    Introduction: The study was carried out to assess the factors leading to malnutrition in children under-five years at Kasese Municipal HCIII, Kasese Municipality, Kasese District. Malnutrition is regarded as the most important risk factor for illness and death globally and it is associated with 52.5% 0f all deaths in young children (Lisanu Mazengia & Andargie Biks, 2018). Methodology: This study used a cross-sectional descriptive research design which used quantitative approaches, researcher-administered questionnaire which was used to determine the factors leading to malnutrition in children under-five years. The study used a probability sampling technique which consisted of a systematic random sampling and 104 respondents were reached. Results: More than half of the under-five children in the study were females (53) and majority were aged 37-59 months (57) and followed by those aged 13-36 months (36) respectively. Half of the children (52) were of birth order 1-2 with a few in the birth order of 3-4 (26) and 5+ order (26) respectively. The number and distribution of under-five children according to the education level of the mother indicates that majority of the mothers had received primary level education (76) and quite a few had never been to school (16). Findings show that 18(104) were wasted and 13 (104) were severely wasted. The highest prevalence of wasting was observed in children aged 24-35 months where 23 (104) and 8 (104) children were wasted and severely wasted respectively. Almost a third, 29 (104) were stunted and 13 (104) severely stunted. Children aged 6-11 month presented highest prevalence of moderate stunting37 (104) while severe stunting was highestl9 (104) in children aged 6-11 months. In conclusion, the study has shown there are some gaps in terms of knowledge towards nutrition. For example only 50 women out of the 104 had the correct knowledge on initiation of breastfeeding after birth. To reduce childhood Under-nutrition in Kasese Municipality which has been on the rise, emphasis should be given in improving the knowledge of mothers on appropriate infant andyoung children feeding. Recommendations l. To reduce childhood Under-nutrition in Kasese Municipality,emphasis should be given in improving the knowledge of mothers on appropriate infant andyoung children feeding. 2. Empowering women in terms of formal education as seen in the current study, education positively affects the correct timing of initiation of complementary feeds. 3. The study recommends exclusive breast feeding and proper supplementary feeding especially among children aged less than three years.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Knowledge Attitude and Practices of Mothers on Management of Malnutrion Among Children Under Five Years in Bugongi Town Council, Sheema District.
    (Kabale University, 2020) Mwiine, Dickens Richard
    Malnutrition remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years especially in developing countries. Malnutrition is responsible for more ill health than any other cause good health is not possible without good nutrition.Uganda has introduced several programs like OWC to increase food production and reduce hunger and Sheema district too has got its share. This has led to considerable progress in terms of economic growth and reduction of poverty. However, the prevalence of stunting in Sheema has remained high despite its agricultural potential and significant agricultural exports. This study aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitude and practices of mothers on management of malnutrition among Children under- five years in Bugongi Town Council, Sheema district. It went further to determine the knowledge of mothers on causes, signs and symptoms of malnutrition among children underfive years and factors that influence mothers attitude towards nutrition of their children. It also looked at common practices of mothers that hinder normal growth and promote malnutrition among children under-five years. The study employed a cross sectional descriptive research technique where by both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were used. A total of 120 respondents were selected for the study using simple random sampling techniques from all wards ofBugongi Town council. The study findings revealed that the biggest proportion of the sampled mothers had attained some level of education. From the general understanding levels of education have effects on the care a mother gives a child. However, it was noticed that majority of mothers had completed primary level (72.5%) and very few (5%) had attained tertiary education (Diploma, Degree and above) yet the knowledge attained at that level on nutrition may not be sufficient. Largest proportion of mothers (90%) was aware that breast milk is the main source of food for babies. However 10% mentioned artificial food as the best food for under 6 months babies. This reveals information gap which must be fulfilled by health workers through conducting regular health education talks. The study further revealed that majority of respondents do not mix food for babies before serving. This act predisposes infants to malnutrition as they lack some essential nutrients. This study recommends that in formulation of breastfeeding policies by government, culture should be mainstreamed. It was found out to play an important role as at when one should initiate breastfeeding and when other foods are introduced. Secondly, health professionals need to conduct regular health education to educate masses as when complementary feeding should be initiated.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Level of Pollution of Water from River Rwabakazi Indicated by Metal Ions and Suspended Solids Concentrations.
    (Kabale University, 2021) Habimana, Michael
    Pollution resulting from increased anthropogenic activities is affecting river Rwabakazi. Its effects are reflected by high concentrations of calcium, iron (II). iron ( 111), magnesium and total suspended solids (TSS). In this study. we report the selected physicochemical parameters of waters of Rwabakazi River and how they varied in the selected study area in kabale district. Globally. 2.l billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water services (WHO/UNICEF. 20I7). Uganda is confronted with over IO million people lacking access to safe drinking water (Ojore, 2019), Kabale Municipality inclusive. The study performed in Kabale university involved titration to determine iron (11), lron (Ill), calcium and magnesium ions; and filtration in determining the amount of suspended solids. The results obtained for the samples showed high concentrations of calcium, magnesium, iron (Il), and iron (Ill) ions and suspended solids as a result of pollution. The concentrations decreased downstream as follows; iron (II) from 60.04 to 54.40 mg/L; iron (Ill) from 19.50 to 16.50 mg/L; calcium from 99.00 to 68.00 mg/L; magnesium from 7 .20 to 6.00 mg/L and TSS from 15.6 to 10.5 mg/Lall of which exceeded the allowed limits by EPA and WHO guidelines for safe water for human use. The available data can be relied on to assert that river Rwabakazi is polluted as a result of erosion and flush flooding but has capacity to undergo natural self-purification although very slowly. Further studies on nutrient and pesticide pollution of this river should be carried out and trees should be planted on slopes of open surfaces to minimize erosion. Keywords: Level, Pollution, Water, River Rwabakazi, Metal Ions, Suspended Solids, Concentrations.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Factors Contributing to Low Latrine Coverage in Homesteads Butobere Ward Central Division Kabale Municipality Kabale District
    (2021) Biija, Andrew
    The study was meant to investigate the factors contributing to low latrine coverage in Butobere ward Kabale Municipal. A cross- sectional survey design was used whereby out of the sampled 180 homestead heads were interview. This community cross-section study was utilized. The research design was used to provide valuable information pertaining to the level of a particular attributes of interest in this case the level of latrine coverage in a defined population of Butobere at a specified point of time. The study reviewed about knowledge attitude social cultural attributes towards latrine construction. It also involved administrative gaps in the community towards latrine construction in the community. The research findings reviled that the environmental factors like vegetative cover, terrain and the soil types affected latrine coverage in the study area. Findings showed that gender wise female to male ratio was high also respondents had low income low education levels and less employment mainly casual labor. Further on culture was less bothered by poor hygiene and thus some practiced open defecation. The study concluded that, respondents had less knowledge about latrine construction, environment not conducive for latrine construction, no cultural concern about hygiene community workers were very few and thus there was no law enforcement. The study therefore recommended that, there be community sensitization, law enforcement and more staff recruitment in addition to construction of community latrines and enhancement of government programs like Emyooga and NAADS to improve the economical status of the community members.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Factors Contributing to Low Latrine Coverage in Homesteads Butobere Ward Central Division Kabale Municipality Kabale District.
    (Kabale University, 2021) Biija, Andrew
    The study was meant to investigate the factors contributing to low latrine coverage in Butobere ward Kabale Municipal. A cross- sectional survey design was used whereby out of the sampled 180 homestead heads were interview. This community cross-section study was utilized. The research design was used to provide valuable information pertaining to the level of a particular attributes of interest in this case the level of latrine coverage in a defined population of Butobere at a specified point of time. The study reviewed about knowledge attitude social cultural attributes towards latrine construction. It also involved administrative gaps in the community towards latrine construction in the community. The research findings reviled that the environmental factors like vegetative cover, terrain and the soil types affected latrine coverage in the study area. Findings showed that gender wise female to male ratio was high also respondents had low income low education levels and less employment mainly casual labor. Further on culture was less bothered by poor hygiene and thus some practiced open defecation. The study concluded that, respondents had less knowledge about latrine construction, environment not conducive for latrine construction, no cultural concern about hygiene community workers were very few and thus there was no law enforcement. The study therefore recommended that, there be community sensitization, law enforcement and more staff recruitment in addition to construction of community latrines and enhancement of government programs like Emyooga and NAADS to improve the economical status of the community members. Keywords: Factors, Low Latrine Coverage, Homesteads, Kabale Municipality, Kabale District.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Knowledge Attitude and Practices of Mothers on Management of Malnutrition Among Children Under Five Years in Bugongi Town Council, Sheema District.
    (Kabale University, 2020) Mwiine, Dickens Richard
    Malnutrition remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children under five years especially in developing countries. Malnutrition is responsible for more ill health than any other cause good health is not possible without good nutrition.Uganda has introduced several programs like OWC to increase food production and reduce hunger and Sheema district too has got its share. This has led to considerable progress in terms of economic growth and reduction of poverty. However, the prevalence of stunting in Sheema has remained high despite its agricultural potential and significant agricultural exports. This study aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitude and practices of mothers on management of malnutrition among Children under- five years in Bugongi Town Council, Sheema district. It went further to determine the knowledge of mothers on causes, signs and symptoms of malnutrition among children under five years and factors that influence mothers attitude towards nutrition of their children. It also looked at common practices of mothers that hinder normal growth and promote malnutrition among children under-five years. The study employed a cross sectional descriptive research technique where by both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were used. A total of 120 respondents were selected for the study using simple random sampling techniques from all wards ofBugongi Town council. The study findings revealed that the biggest proportion of the sampled mothers had attained some level of education. From the general understanding levels of education have effects on the care a mother gives a child. However, it was noticed that majority of mothers had completed primary level (72.5%) and very few (5%) had attained tertiary education (Diploma, Degree and above) yet the knowledge attained at that level on nutrition may not be sufficient. Largest proportion of mothers (90%) was aware that breast milk is the main source of food for babies. However 10% mentioned artificial food as the best food for under 6 months babies. This reveals information gap which must be fulfilled by health workers through conducting regular health education talks. The study further revealed that majority of respondents do not mix food for babies before serving. This act predisposes infants to malnutrition as they lack some essential nutrients. This study recommends that in formulation of breastfeeding policies by government, culture should be mainstreamed. It was found out to play an important role as at when one should initiate breastfeeding and when other foods are introduced. Secondly, health professionals need to conduct regular health education to educate masses as when complementary feeding should be initiated. Keywords: Knowledge Attitude, Practices, Mothers, Management, Malnutrition, Children, Under Five Years, Sheema District.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Assessment of Hand-Hygiene Practices Among Health Care Workers at Kisoro Hospital, Kisoro District.
    (2019) Nsenga, Alex
    According to WHO, (2017), annual report, 70% of the hospital acquired infections can be averted by the practice of hand hygiene (HH) which is a systematic procedure of cleansing hands using soap and water or using antiseptic hand rub for removal of transient microorganism from hands. Purpose of the study: The main purpose of the study was to assess the hand hygiene practices among health care workers at Kisoro hospital in Kisoro District in order to contribute to the control of poor hygiene related diseases. Specific objectives of the study were; to examine the level of knowledge of health workers on hand-hygiene practice, to determine the level of adherence to hand-hygiene practice among health workers and to identify key barriers m implementation of hand-hygiene practice among health workers at Kisoro hospital in Kisoro District. Study design: The study employed a cross-sectional, descriptive study design usmg both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection. Findings of the study: A total of 106 health care workers were involved in the study as study respondents. The study findings revealed that 91(85.8%) of the respondents had good knowledge about hand hygiene. 83 (96.7%) of the respondents had high awareness in respect to practice of hand washing before touching a patient and lowest awareness in respect to practice of hand hygiene after exposure to immediate surroundings of a patient. Regarding knowledge on commonly used agents in hand hygiene, the study revealed that the biggest number of respondents was using water and soap 63(60%) for hand hygiene. Level of adherence to hand hygiene practices was at 57%. However, 91(85.8%) of the respondents reported lack of continuous flow of water as the major barrier hindering health care workers from practicing hand hygiene. Conclusion: The study concluded that most of the health workers know the meaning of hand hygiene and five moments of hand hygiene but the actual practice of hand hygiene is still a big challenge Recommendation: The study recommended that, refresher trainings/CMEs' for health care workers on hand hygiene including socio-behavioral change communication should be organized by the Ministry of health through the District health department to increase awareness among health care workers about the importance of hand hygiene and change a negative attitude of health care workers towards hand hygiene practice. The study also recommended that; there is need for proper quantification of hand hygiene items such as hand sanitizers, gloves, soap by the hospital management in order to avoid stock outs and while ordering for hospital supplies such items should be given priority since hand hygiene is one of the most important ways to reduce the prevalence of hospital acquired infections. Keywords: Assessment, Hand-Hygiene Practices, Health Care Workers, Hospital, Kisoro District.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Assessment of Factors Associated with Low Handwashing Coverage in Karungu Sub-County BuhweJu District.
    (Kabale University, 2021) Manigaruhanga, Pius
    Slow socio-demographic index (SDI) countries, unsafe water, sanitation and hygiene (W ASH) is sill the third- largest contributor to the global burden of disease at 7.8% of Disability Adjusted Life Years (DAL Ys). It is estimated that inadequate hand hygiene resulting nearly 300,000 deaths annually, with the majority of deaths being among children below 5 years old (WHO and UNICEF 2017 The study was to establish the factors associated with low hand washing coverage. It was across- sectional study that used quantitative data collection methods. The statistics in Karungu Sub-county, it experiences high prevalence of sanitation-related illnesses accounting for 67% quarterly compared to other Sub-counties closely linked to poor hand hygiene (HMIS 2018/2019). A determination of the level of knowledge. attitudes. practices. and barriers on hand washing among the respondents led to the conclusion that the respondents in the study area have sufficient knowledge about hand washing. Based on the findings, most of the respondents did not wash their hands due to lack of water. There is a need to provide piped water for easy access, promote rain water harvesting tanks and continuous sensitization on the benefits of hand washing both after use and to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Keywords: Factors, Low Handwashing, Coverage, Karungu Sub-County, BuhweJu District.
  • ItemRestricted
    Factors Contributing to Utilisation of Insecticide Treated Mosquito Bed Nets Among the Households of Kayonza Subcounty, Kanungu District.
    (Kabale University, 2022) Baguma, Bosco
    The purpose of this study was to identify factors contributing to utilization and usage of insecticide treated mosquito bed nets among the community members in Kayonza Sub County, Kanungu district. The study was guded by the following objectives: to establish the level of knowledge, attitudes of household heads on malaria and use of ITNs in Kayonza Sub County, Kanungu district, to determine the factors influencing the ITN utilization usage at household level in Kayonza Sub County, Kanungu district, to recommend various solutions for ITN use and utilization for households in Kayonza Sub County, Kanungu district. A cross sectional study design involving both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The main findings from the study revealed that all the house hold heads their knowledge and attitude was high on ITN usage and utilization. It was noted that health workers, VHTs, peer facilitators were seen as important source of information on ITN use and utilization thus signify the importance of numerous health education carried out by health workers in promoting ITN utilization. Furthermore it was found out that there was no treatment of ITNs in the entire sub county of Kayonza. This could be as a result of lack of insecticide for treating ITN s on local market and government health facilities. The study recommended that The Ministry of Health should increase regular community sensitization campaigns to ensure greater awareness of the importance of sleeping under insecticide treated nets among the vulnerable groups. Furthermore, the study recommend that VHTs and peer facilitators be motivated and further trained on ITN treatment and on care and maintenance be done by the Office of DHO Kanungu District. Keywords: Factors, Utilisation, Insecticide Treated Mosquito, Bed Nets, Households, Kayonza Subcounty, Kanungu District.
  • ItemOpen Access
    Assessing Factors Contributing to Diarhoea Among Children Under Five Years in Kasese Municipal Council, Kasese District
    (Kabale University, 2021) Stephen, Bagonza
    Diarrhoea in children remains a major public health problem in Uganda and other countries in the region and is one of the leading contributors to child mortality. of the risk factors for diarrhea in children are preventable. This study was conducted to assess the factors contributing to the spread of diarrhoea among children under 5 years old in Kasese Municipality, Kasese District. Methodology: A descriptive study design was used, employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches, with 375 people as the sample size of mothers of children under five years of age. Results: All 375 study respondents were reached, hence the study achieved a response rate of a. implying that all the women who were presumed to have knowledge about diarrhea among children under 5 years were reached. (75%) of the respondents agreed that lack of knowledge about diarrhea has led to the spread of the disease among children under five years old, while 55.4% of the respondents agreed that the lack of provision of health services in Kasese Municipality has led to the spread of 'Diarrhoea. However, 56.1 % disagreed that too much distance to the health facilities cannot led to the spread of diarrhea among children under five (S) years, but a lack of trained health professionals could, as agreed by 47% of the respondents. This was an indication that the spread of diarrhea is heavily influenced by the healthcare system, which needs to be adequately supported with both qualified and experienced health professionals that can adequately serve. It was found that 81.1 percent of the respondents agreed that failure to wash hands before eating and after visiting the toilet causes diarrhea among children under five years; 68.9 percent agreed that lack of household information on health and sanitation causes diarrhea; and 64.1 percent agreed that failure of the caretakers to wash hands after changing napkins causes diarrhea.