| 1 |
Author(s):
William Foday Moiforay, Mohamed Musa Kabba, Joseph Kortu, Khalifa Konneh.
Page No : 1-16
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Socio-Demographic and Health Characteristics Associated with Maternal Malnutrition Among Pregnant Women in Kenema District, Sierra Leone.
Abstract
This study examines the socio-economic, cultural, and health system factors influencing maternal malnutrition among pregnant women in Kenema, Sierra Leone. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, 127 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics were surveyed between January and July 2025. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered in local languages and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings reveal that poverty is the dominant driver of malnutrition, with 63.8% of respondents earning less than Le5, 000 monthly (approximately $0.25 USD per day), 75.6% skipping meals due to financial constraints, and 66.1% experiencing hunger during pregnancy. Dietary patterns were heavily carbohydrate-based (90.6%), with limited access to protein and micronutrient-rich foods. Adolescent pregnancy was prevalent (43.4%), and most women were single (72.4%), unemployed, or students. Despite high antenatal care attendance (94.5%) and supplement provision (93.7%), adherence to supplementation and nutrition education remained suboptimal. Cultural and religious food restrictions affected a minority, but poverty overshadowed these as the primary barrier. The study concludes that maternal malnutrition in Kenema is a multidimensional issue requiring integrated interventions that address economic vulnerability, food insecurity, adolescent health, and health system strengthening. These findings provide critical evidence for policymakers and health practitioners designing context-specific nutrition programs in similar low-resource settings.
| 2 |
Author(s):
Oluwatoyin Olajumoke Akinyemi, Onasoga Oayinka Abolore, Babajide Augustine Owolabi.
Page No : 17-26
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Factors Influencing Availability of Non-Pneumatic Anti-Shock Garment in The Management of Postpartum Haemorrhage Among Midwives in Ekiti State.
Abstract
Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is one of the leading causes of death among women especially in developing nations, which can be managed through the use of non-pneumatic anti-shock garment (NASG) if available. This study was aimed to determine factors influencing the availability of NASG in the management of PPH among midwives in Ekiti State. The study adopted an embedded mixed-method design. Purposive sampling technique was used in selecting participants, a total of 164 midwives participated in the quantitative study and 11 in the key informant interview. Data were collected using self-structured questionnaire and interview guide, same were analyzed using chi-square version 25 and ATLAS ti version 9, level of a significant set at 5% (0.05). Results from the study show that Midwives' mean age was 37 ± 7.64, more than half 65.9% had (NASG) in their facilities while 34.1 claimed non availability in their facility, this corroborates with the result of the interview where majority showed availability of one to two garments, while few indicated non availability. Reasons for non-availability as stated by the participant include the following: lack of fund, cost of buying the garment, inadequate supply of the garment and availability of other methods of controlling PPH. There was a significant association between availability and utilization of NASG as the p-value gotten was 0.01 which is lesser than 0.05, the null hypothesis was therefore rejected. Conclusively, the availability of NASG for the management of PPH was on the average. It is recommended that government and hospital management of each facility should provide the garment for the management of PPH, regular seminar on the use of NASG and policies that will encourage continuous supply and utilization of NASG.
| 3 |
Author(s):
Lawrence Sao Babawo (Ph.D.), Bintu Sabur Janneh, Rashid Bundu Kpaka.
Page No : 27-46
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Water, Sanitation, and Burden of Water-Related Diseases among Under-Five Children in Kenema City, Sierra Leone.
Abstract
Introduction: Water-related diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity among underfive children in low-income urban settings, driven by inadequate access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene. In Sierra Leone, rapid urbanisation has intensified these risks, particularly in secondary cities such as Kenema, where WASH infrastructure remains limited.
Aim: This study assessed the prevalence, determinants, and impacts of water-related diseases among underfive children in selected communities in Kenema city, with an emphasis on water access, sanitation, hygiene practices, and prevention strategies.
Methods: A mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 households with underfive children. Quantitative data were collected via structured household questionnaires that captured sociodemographic characteristics, water sources, sanitation facilities, hygiene practices, and childhood illness episodes. The data were analysed via SPSS version 28 via descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and multivariate logistic regression at the 5% significance level. Qualitative data were obtained through five focus group discussions with caregivers and 15 key informant interviews with community leaders, health workers, and local officials. Thematic analysis was conducted via NVivo to contextualise the quantitative findings.
Results: Overall, 83.0% of households reported at least one episode of water-related disease among underfive children in the preceding 12 months, with diarrhea (31%), cholera (29%), and typhoid fever (26%) most frequently reported. The use of unimproved water sources (χ², p < 0.001), shared sanitation facilities (p = 0.002), the absence of handwashing with soap (p < 0.001), and walking ≥ 1 km to water sources (p = 0.01) were significantly associated with disease occurrence. In the multivariate analysis, a lack of household water treatment (AOR = 2.4; 95% CI: 1.5–3.9) and poor hand hygiene (AOR = 3.1; 95% CI: 1.9–5.0) were independently associated with elevated health risk. Recurrent illness episodes were linked to reported weight loss, reduced appetite, and delayed care seeking.
Conclusion: Water-related diseases, driven by structural WASH deficits and constrained hygiene practices, remain highly prevalent among children under five years of age in Kenema city. Integrated investments in safely managed water, sanitation, and community-centred hygiene interventions are essential to reduce recurrent childhood illness and associated nutritional and economic impacts.
| 4 |
Author(s):
Oluwaseun Chidera Ajayi (Ph.D.), Rosemary Esosa Ugoh, Ikeoluwa Abisola Ajayi (Ph.D.), Abimbola Obinna Ajayi (Ph.D.), Favour Obi-Nicholas Chinwe.
Page No : 47-60
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Knowledge and Practices of Malaria Prevention Measures among Selected Communities in Abuja, Nigeria.
Abstract
Malaria remains a critical public health concern globally because it is linked to human practices and their living conditions. Malaria is a threat to more than 40% of the world's population. The role of household residents and communities cannot be overemphasized. Hence, the study examined the knowledge and practice of malaria prevention measures among selected peri-urban communities in Abuja. This study adopted cross-sectional survey research using quantitative methods of data collection. A multi-staged sampling technique was used to select 414 households in Abaji and Kuje peri-urban communities in Abuja, of which 385 household residents participated in the study. Research questions were formulated, and data were analysed using SPSS version 27 to compute descriptive statistics.
The majority of respondents (47.5%) are above the age of 36years with the mean age of 47.1± 19.8. Findings revealed that knowledge of malaria prevention among the participants was moderate, with participants having correct responses ranging from 59.2%-79.3% across important items for knowledge, like preventive measures, awareness of environmental risk factors, and barriers to malaria prevention and control. Also, practices of malaria prevention were generally high, since many participants reported using malaria prevention and treatment actions such as indoor spraying (32.6%), house cleaning (29.2%), and use of mosquito repellent devices (21.5%). However, the use of insecticide-treated nets was reportedly low (5.6%), and treatment practices such as antimalarial monotherapy and antimalarial combination therapy were varied across the study population.
In conclusion, while malaria prevention practices were considerably high, specific gaps in knowledge still exist. The researchers recommend that health education and community-based intervention be strengthened to improve knowledge and sustain the malaria prevention practices in peri-urban communities in Abuja.
| 5 |
Author(s):
Mark John S. Catalo.
Page No : 61-75
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Critical Thinking, Self-Confidence, and Clinical Decision-Making in Managing Patient Deterioration Events Among Medical Surgical Staff Nurses in Selected Hospitals in Manila.
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to determine which nurse-related factors—specifically critical thinking, self-confidence, and selected demographic characteristics— significantly predict the clinical decision-making of medical-surgical nurses when managing patient deterioration.
Background: Patient deterioration in medical-surgical units poses a serious challenge to patient safety, often requiring prompt and sound clinical decision-making from nurses. While critical thinking and self-confidence are believed to influence nurses' decisions, few empirical studies have examined their predictive role, particularly in the Philippine hospital context.
Method: A predictive correlational research design was employed. Data were collected from 290 medical-surgical staff nurses working in selected level 2 and level 3 hospitals across Manila. Standardized instruments were used to measure critical thinking
(CTSAS), self-confidence (Hicks Scale), and clinical decision-making (CDMNS). Multiple linear regression (MLR) was used to identify significant predictors of clinical decision-making.
Results: The ten-variable full model significantly predicted clinical decision-making, F(10, 273) = 47.6, p < .001, with an adjusted R² of 0.677. A four-factor reduced model—consisting of critical thinking, self-confidence, prior rotation in non-medicalsurgical units, and previous rapid response team (RRT) training—retained similar explanatory power (adjusted R² = 0.676). Specifically, clinical decision-making scores increased with higher critical thinking (b = 0.280, p < .001), self-confidence (b = 1.124, p < .001), non-MS unit experience (b = 4.502, p = .005), and prior RRT training (b =
6.196, p < .001).
Conclusion: The study confirms that critical thinking and self-confidence are significant predictors of nurses’ clinical decision-making during patient deterioration events. Contextual factors, such as prior rotations and RRT-related training, also enhance decision-making capacity. These findings emphasizes the need for structured education and training programs that cultivate cognitive competence and experiential preparedness among medical-surgical nurses.
Implications: Nursing practice should incorporate simulation-based learning, mentorship, and scenario-based training to enhance nurses' critical thinking and confidence. Nurse educators and hospital administrators are encouraged to provide diverse clinical exposure and continuous professional development to strengthen decision-making skills vital for early recognition and management of patient
deterioration.
| 6 |
Author(s):
Akinola Ajoke B. (Ph.D.), Udoetuk Enobong N. I. (Ph.D.).
Page No : 76-93
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Menopause and Andropause: A Literature Review.
Abstract
Menopause and andropause are states in which women and men respectively experience cessation (or just gradual reduction, in the case of andropause) of reproductive function, usually around middle age. As everyone who lives long enough will experience either one or the other, it is imperative that all persons be educated on the symptoms of both conditions and how to manage them effectively.
This literature review sought to gather information pertaining to menopause and andropause, their symptoms, and the management of those symptoms, in order to help readers better understand and prepare for their occurrence.
A search for articles on the Google Scholar and PubMed Central databases published from inception yielded the information on which this article is based. It was discovered that both menopause and andropause are typified by a number of symptoms, and that hormone replacement therapy is the most common treatment for both conditions. There are also non-pharmacological interventions which may ameliorate symptoms.
Therefore, with the information available on the management of the symptoms of menopause and andropause, it is possible to enjoy a high quality of life, despite the changes to one’s health that come with aging.
| 7 |
Author(s):
Efuniyi Maria Aderemi, Bello Feranmi Dorcas.
Page No : 94-107
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Knowledge and Attitude Toward Premarital Genotype Screening among Students of Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro.
Abstract
Genetic disease such as sickle cell disease is more prevalent in developing countries like Nigeria. Premarital genotype screening represents a crucial preventive health measure against sickle cell disease, yet its uptake remains influenced by multiple factors among young adult populations in affected countries.
This study assessed the knowledge and attitude toward premarital genotype screening among students of Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro.
A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted in this study. A sample size of 266 students were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using validated questionnaires. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20, and the results were presented in cross tabulation, frequency and percentage.
The study revealed that 91.4% of students were aware of premarital genotype screening, though significant knowledge gaps existed as only 82.7% knew their own genotype, with 8.6% having misconceptions about screening purposes. While attitudes were largely positive (82.3% supported screening, 92.5% would encourage others), a noticeable attitude-behavior gap emerged as only 60.9% would end a relationship based on incompatible results. Key promoting factors included media campaigns (75.9%), personal exposure to genetic disorders (84.2%), and educational awareness (90.6%). Major barriers included cost (71.1%), lack of access to facilities (40.6%), fear of negative results (63.5%), and cultural influences (57.1%).
The study concluded that students demonstrated moderate knowledge and positive attitudes toward genotype screening, but substantial barriers related to cost, access, and psychological concerns hinder practical implementation. The study recommends comprehensive education programs, affordable on-campus testing facilities, counseling services, and policy interventions to improve screening uptake and reduce genetic disorder risks among the student population.
| 8 |
Author(s):
Akua Afriyie Nkrumah, Crecensia Baarkoh, Evans O. N. D. Ocansey (Ph.D.).
Page No : 108-120
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Beyond the Diagnosis: A Biopsychosocial Inquiry into Maternal Caregiving in Cerebral Palsy.
Abstract
Cerebral palsy is a chronic neurological condition that affects children's physical and cognitive development, often requiring long-term caregiving. Mothers commonly assume the primary caregiving role and subsequently experience significant challenges that affect their physical, psychological, and social well-being. Understanding these experiences is essential to informing holistic and family-centred care. The study explored the physical, psychological, and social experiences of mothers caring for children living with cerebral palsy, guided by the biopsychosocial model. A qualitative descriptive design was used. Fifteen mothers of children diagnosed with cerebral palsy were purposively selected from a tertiary hospital in Ghana. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and ananlysed using thematic content analysis. Mothers reported delays in developmental milestones, feeding difficulties, and recurrent seizures in their children, which resulted in intense and continuous caregiving demands. Physically, mothers experienced fatigue, back pain, and sleep deprivation. Psychologically, they reported mental stress, worry, and periods of sadness, primarily linked to caregiving responsibilities and financial strain. Socially, mothers encountered stigma, isolation, and strained family relationships. However, some mothers demonstrated resilience through faith, self-motivation, and support from family members. Caring for a child with cerebral palsy significantly affects the physical, emotional, and social well-being of mothers. Holistic, family-centred care is essential to address caregiver needs alongside the child’s health needs. Strengthening psychosocial support, improving access to financial and respite resources, and fostering community awareness may enhance the well-being and caregiving capacity of mothers.
| 9 |
Author(s):
Onuiri Amarachi Beauty, Amarachi Onuiri, Asonye Christian Chinedu Chichi, Abaribe Chidinma Emeka, Nwosu Ihuoma Chetachi.
Page No : 121-139
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Navigating the Metabolic Crossroads: Diabetes Risk Factors, Barriers and Facilitators towards Healthy Behaviour among Young Adults.
Abstract
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus represents one of the most rapidly expanding non-communicable disease burdens of the twenty-first century, with young adults increasingly constituting a high-risk yet often under-served population cohort. The transition from adolescence into early adulthood is characterized by profound shifts in lifestyle autonomy, dietary patterns, physical activity norms, and psychosocial stressors, each of which independently and interactively modulates diabetes risk.
Objectives: This narrative review critically synthesizes evidence published between 2020 and 2026 to identify the predominant risk factors for type 2 diabetes among young adults, examine the barriers that impede healthy behavioural practice in this population, and delineate the facilitators that support preventive health engagement.
Methods: A systematic search of PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, Google Scholar, and WHO IRIS databases was conducted using pre-defined MeSH and free-text search terms. Fifteen peer-reviewed studies meeting the inclusion criteria were appraised and synthesized thematically.
Results: Key diabetes risk factors identified included sedentary behaviour, poor dietary quality characterized by high refined carbohydrate and sugar-sweetened beverage intake, obesity, family history, inadequate sleep, and psychological stress. Principal barriers to healthy behaviour encompassed low health literacy, poor self-efficacy, fatalistic illness perceptions, financial constraints, unsafe physical environments, social and cultural food norms, and limited healthcare access. Identified facilitators included peer and social support, digital health technologies, theory-based educational interventions, accessible campus wellness infrastructure, and culturally aligned health promotion strategies.
Conclusion: A multifaceted, socio-ecologically informed approach is essential to effectively address diabetes risk among young adults. Nursing and public health practitioners must advocate for structural, educational, and community-level interventions that acknowledge the intersectional nature of this risk landscape, particularly in low- and middle-income country contexts such as Nigeria.
| 10 |
Author(s):
Ewoma Akpovienehe, Linda C. Odikpo (Ph.D.).
Page No : 140-150
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Knowledge and Socio-Demographic Correlates of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness Among Pregnant Women in Oshimili South Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria.
Abstract
Background to the study
Safe motherhood initiatives emphasize the importance of advance planning for childbirth and readiness for pregnancy-related complications. Nevertheless, many pregnant women continue to experience obstacles such as poverty, transportation difficulties, inadequate awareness, and poor decision-making autonomy, which limit effective preparedness. Birth preparedness and complication readiness is a process of planning for birth and anticipating actions in case of Obstetrics emergencies in order to reduce delay in seeking skilled care and as well maternal mortality. The study seeks to assess the perceived determinants of birth preparedness and complication readiness among pregnant women accessing primary health care services in Oshimili South Local government Area, Delta State. In line with the study two (2) objectives and research questions were drafted and a hypotheses to test for relationships between each variables. Methods: The study employed an analytical cross sectional survey design with a sample size of 337 pregnant women. A self - structured questionnaire was adapted and modified from JHPIEGO. Data collected were collated and analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequency, percentages, mean and standard deviation while inferential statistics using Chi-square and Pearson product moment correlation coefficient to test the hypothesis at 0.05 level of significance. IBM SPSS version 25 was used to encode quantitative data for analysis. Reliability index was tested at 0.85 using Cronbach's Alpha which depicts a high internal consistency. Result: Result revealed a highest mean score of (M=3.51, SD=0.75) for knowledge of danger signs of labour followed by knowledge of danger signs of pregnancy. The effect of socio-cultural factors on BPCR showed that distance to health facility has the highest mean rating (M=2.89). Hypothesis on relationships between gestational age and knowledge of BPCR showed a Pearson correlation analysis of -0.009 and p-value of 0.876. The result indicated no statistical relationship exists between the variables. Conclusion: knowledge of BPCR are high among pregnant women but practical implementation remains inadequate due to financial, information and structural barriers. Recommendation includes nurses/ midwives should intensify health education on BPCR during ANC as well as actively involve family members to enhance shared decision making and emotional support. Government should provide adequate human resources, essential equipment and priorities referral systems to support skilled.
