Experiences of schizophrenia patients with treatment buddy support during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: Schizophrenia is a major psychiatric disorder affecting physical, psychosocial, and cognitive functioning. Treatment includes pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. Adherence to prescribed medication is critical but reportedly low, because of side effects, failure to understand instructions, a lack of insight about the condition, cognitive deficits, and financial difficulties. Interventions to promote adherence to medication are required. This study introduced a treatment buddy to provide the patient with virtual support in adherence to medication. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the participants' lived experiences of a treatment buddy support. Setting: A specialised psychiatric clinic in a resource-constrained district of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Methods: A qualitative study design, using semi-structured one-on-one interviews, was used to collect in-depth data from 24 participants, suffering from schizophrenia and who had been offered virtual treatment buddy support for 6 months. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The intervention improved adherence to medication. Participants indicated that the text messages served as reminders to take their medication daily. An alleviation of associated problems such as sleeping difficulties was observed. Participants were willing to encourage other patients suffering from schizophrenia to join 'treatment buddy services'. Conclusion: The virtual treatment buddy support increased awareness of the importance to adhere to antipsychotic medications among patients suffering from schizophrenia and helped to resolve other schizophrenia-related problems experienced by the participants. Contribution: The study has provided a supportive intervention that can be utilised by mental health institutions to address poor adherence to medication by patients suffering from schizophrenia.

Prevalence of preoperative anxiety and its contributing factors in adult patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery at an academic hospital in South Africa: a pilot study

Preoperative anxiety potentially results in perioperative anaesthetic complications. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of preoperative anxiety in adult patients scheduled to undergo elective orthopaedic surgery at an academic hospital in South Africa and identify contributory factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study included all patients scheduled for elective orthopaedic surgery the following day from 25 July to 3 November 2021. An adapted version of the Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) was used. Four questions determined the patients' anxiety and two questions their desire for more information about their forthcoming anaesthesia and surgery. A 5-point Likert scale was used to capture the patients' responses to the APAIS questions. Data on other possible contributory factors to preoperative anxiety were collected using a questionnaire. Results: Of the 88 patients, 82 (93.2%) were included in the study. A total of 40 (48.8%) patients had an APAIS score of ≥ 11, indicating anxiety. A high need-for-information score (≥ 8) was found in 31 (37.8%) patients. A significant association between patients with a higher anxiety score and a higher need-for-information score (p = 0.0063) was identified. Other non-significant factors associated with a higher anxiety score included a lower level of education and no postoperative home support. Conclusion: Patients with a high need for information tended to be more anxious on the day before surgery. The APAIS could be introduced in preoperative ward admissions to identify these patients and provide an appropriate level of counselling about their planned procedure. Counselling might reduce their preoperative anxiety, but further research needs to confirm this assertion. Larger studies are recommended to determine the influence of other factors contributing to preoperative anxiety

Caractéristiques épidémio-cliniques et évolutives des dysthyroïdies autoimmunes au centre national hospitalier universitaire Hubert Koudougou Maga (CNHU-HKM) de Cotonou / Epidemiological, clinical and evolutionary characteristics of autoimmune dysthyroidism in the National University Center Hubert Koutoukou Maga (CNHU-HKM) Of Cotonou

Objectif : Etudier les caractéristiques épidémio cliniques et évolutives des dysthyroïdies auto immunes dans le service d'endocrinologie diabétologie du CNHU-HKM. Matériel et méthode d'étude : Il s'agit d'une étude transversale descriptive et analytique ayant porté sur les patients reçus en consultation pour une pathologie thyroïdienne dans le service d'endocrinologie diabétologie sur une période de 10 ans. Ont été inclus les patients ayant au moins une TSH anormale et les anticorps anti thyroïdiens positifs. Résultats : Sur la période d'étude, nous avons enregistré 2883 consultants, 347 avaient une pathologie thyroïdienne, dont 69 cas de dysthyroïdie auto-immune répartis en 54 cas de maladie de Basedow et 15 cas de maladie de Hashimoto. Les dysthyroïdies auto immunes représentaient donc 2,39 % des consultations et 19,89% des thyroïdopathies. Les fréquences de la maladie de Basedow et de la maladie de Hashimoto étaient respectivement de 1,87% (54 cas) et 0,52% (15 cas) parmi les consultations. Les dysthyroïdies auto immunes étaient plus fréquentes dans les tranches d'âge de 30 à 40 et 40 à 50 ans. Les manifestations les plus fréquentes de la maladie de Basedow étaient l'asthénie (94,4%), l'amaigrissement (87,0%) et la tachycardie (85,2%) . Quant à la maladie de Hashimoto les principales manifestations étaient représentées par une asthénie (86,66%), un goitre (66,6%) et une prise de poids (60%). Le titre initial élevé des anticorps anti R-TSH, l'hypothyroïdie iatrogène ont été retrouvés comme des facteurs associés au suivi prolongé de la maladie de Basedow au-delà de 18 mois. Conclusion : Les dysthyroïdies auto-immunes sont des affections fréquentes dominées par la maladie de Basedow. Leur évolution sous traitement est influencée par des facteurs cliniques, biologiques et échographiques.

Objective: To study the epidemiological, clinical and evolutionary characteristics of autoimmune dysthyroidism in the endocrinology-diabetes department of the CNHU-HKM. Material and method: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study of patients seen for thyroid pathology in the endocrinology diabetology department over a 10-year period. Patients with at least one abnormal TSH and positive anti-thyroid antibodies were included. Results: Over the study period, we recorded 2883 consultants, 347 of them having thyroid diseases, including 69 cases of autoimmune dysthyroidism divided into 54 cases of Graves' disease and 15 cases of Hashimoto's disease. Autoimmune dysthyroidism represented 2.39% of consultations and 19.89% of thyroid disorders. Graves' disease and Hashimoto's disease accounted for 1.87% (54 cases) and 0.52% (15 cases) of consultations respectively. Autoimmune dysthyroidism was more frequent in the 30-40 and 40-50 age groups. The most frequent symptoms of Graves' disease were asthenia (94.4%), weight loss (87.0%) and tachycardia (85.2%). In Hashimoto's disease, the main symptoms were asthenia (86.66%), goiter (66.6%) and weight gain (60%). High initial R-TSH antibody levels and iatrogenic hypothyroidism were found to be factors associated with extended follow-up of Graves' disease beyond 18 months. Conclusion: Autoimmune dysthyroidism is a frequent condition, with Graves' disease predominating. Their evolution under therapy is influenced by clinical, biological and ultrasonographic factors.

Prise en charge anesthésiologique de l'anévrisme cérébral au Mali / Anesthesiological management of cerebral aneurysm in Mali

Objectif : Décrire la prise en charge anesthésiologique de l'anévrisme cérébral au Mali. Patients et Méthodes : étude descriptive à recueil historique de 8 ans (Novembre 2012 à Octobre 2020) au CHU « Hôpital du Mali ¼ des patients opérés pour anévrisme cérébral avec un dossier médical complet. La saisie et l'analyse ont été effectuées par SSPS version 25. Résultats : Durant la période d'étude, 32 patients répondaient à nos critères soit une prévalence de 2,1%. L'âge moyen était de 45,2 ± 12,5 ans. Le ratio femme-homme était de 2,55. Les patients résidaient à Bamako dans 71,9 %. L'HTA était l'antécédent médical le plus fréquent. Les patients étaient de grade I de WFNS dans 87,5%. La classe ASA II représentait 84,4%. Une prémédication a été faite dans 96,9%. Une anesthésie générale a été faite chez tous les patients. Une antibioprophylaxie a été faite chez tous les patients. La perte sanguine moyenne était de 737,3 ± 460,5 ml. Une transfusion per opératoire a été prescrite dans 46,8%. L'évènement indésirable per opératoire était cardiovasculaire dans 96,9 %. La durée moyenne de la chirurgie était de 267,1±77,1 minute. Celle de l'anesthésie était de 427,9 minutes. En réanimation, une complication a été observée dans 34,4%. La mortalité était de 25%. La durée moyenne de séjour était de 6,3 jours. Conclusion: Au Mali la prise en charge de l'anévrysme cérébral est en progrès malgré une mortalité encore élevée.

Objective: To Describe the anesthesiological management of cerebral aneurysm in Mali. Patients and Methods: This was an observational study, descriptive with historical collection of 8 years (November 2012 to October 2020) at the department of the university hospital "Hôpital du Mali" concerning 32 patients operated for cerebral aneurysm with a complete medical file. Input and analysis were performed by SSPS version 25. Results: During the study period, 32 patients met our criteria, a prevalence of 2.1%. The median age was 45.2 ± 12.5 years. The female-to-male ratio was 2.55. Patients resided in Bamako in 71.9%. High blood pressure was the most common medical history. Patients were grade I WFNS in 87.5o_ièvg%. ASA class II accounted for 84.4%. Premedication was done in 96.9%. General anesthesia was applied to all patients. Antibiotic prophylaxis was given to all patients. The average blood loss was 737.3 ± 460.5 ml. An intraoperative transfusion was prescribed in 46.8%. The intraoperative adverse event was cardiovascular in 96.9%. The average duration of surgery was 267.1±77.1 minutes. That of anesthesia was 427.9 minutes. In intensive care, a complication was observed in 34.4%. Mortality was 25%. The average length of stay was 6.3 days. Conclusion: In Mali, the management of cerebral aneurysm is progressing despite still high mortality.

La chirurgie ambulatoire en orthopédie et traumatologie: expériences du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Morafeno Toamasina / mbulatory surgery in orthopedics and traumatology: experiences of the University Hospital Morafeno Toamasin

Introduction : Plus qu'un défi ou un enjeu, la chirurgie ambulatoire, constitue pour les pays en voies de développement une opportunité d'accroître l'accès aux soins. Elle est un concept d'organisation centrée sur le malade, basée sur la sélection des patients et des actes chirurgicaux afin d'assurer une qualité et une sécurité maximale de soins. Objectifs : Partager les résultats de notre expérience sur la chirurgie ambulatoire en orthopédie traumatologie et de déterminer les difficultés rencontrées lors de sa mise en place. Matériels et Méthodes: Il s'agit d'une étude prospective, descriptive et observationnelle allant de janvier 2018 au janvier 2019 (12 mois) réalisée au CHU Morafeno Toamasina. Résultats: Au total, 108 patients ont été retenus. Les interventions réglées étaient réalisées chez 82,40% des patients contre 17,59% d'urgences traumatologiques. L'âge moyen des patients était de 32 ans ± 8,6 ans avec une prédominance masculine (sex ratio:3,9) . Le type d'intervention réalisé était dominé par les ablations de matériels d'ostéosynthèses avec un taux de 25,92%, suivies des tentatives de réduction orthopédique de fractures dans 22,22 % des cas. Le type d'anesthésie la plus pratiquée était l'anesthésie locorégionale (52,77%). Les évènements en postopératoire étaient dominés par l'insomnie (4,62%), la céphalée (2,77 %), les nausées et vomissements (5,55%) et les hématomes (3,70%). Soixante-douze virgule deux pour cent des patients déclaraient satisfaits de leur prise en charge. Conclusion: Le développement extensif de la chirurgie ambulatoire est basé sur la sélection des patients à qui l'on propose ce type de prise en charge. Elle présente un enjeu majeur en matière de restructuration et d'amélioration de l'offre de soins en chirurgie orthopédique et traumatologie

Caractéristiques de l'automédication en ORL à l'Hôpital d'Instruction des Armées-Cotonou au Bénin / Characteristics of self-medication in ENT at Military Teaching Hospital Cotonou in Benin

Etudier l'ampleur et les caractéristiques de l'automédication en consultation ORL. Méthode: Etude descriptive du 1er juin 2020 au 1er février 2021 dans le service d'ORL-CCF/ Hôpital d'Instruction des Armées. Ont été inclus tous les patients reçus en consultation ORL ayant déclaré avoir utilisé des substances actives sans prescription médicale pour soulager leur plainte actuelle. 6 Résultats: L'automédication a été retrouvée chez 373 patients soit une prévalence de 47,88%. La moyenne d'âge était 32,26 ans (02 mois et 80 ans). Les sujets âgés 0 à 20 étaient plus représenté (68,4%). La sex-ratio était de 0,86. Les professions libérales étaient plus représentées (30%). La quasi-totalité des patients (98%) a pu énumérer au moins deux effets nocifs de l'automédication. Les médicaments en cause étaient les médicament en vente libre OTC (80%). Les principales raisons ayant motivé l'automédication ont été le coût élevé des prestations médicales (41,3%) et le manque de temps (33,2%). Conclusion: L'automédication a été retrouvée chez des patients volontiers jeunes, de sexe féminin, porteurs d'affections rhinologiques. Les OTC étaient en cause dans huit cas sur dix. Les principales motivations à l'automédication ont été le coût élevé des prestations médicales et le manque de temps.

Are clients satisfied with communication with health workers? A study among pregnant women attending primary health care centers in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

An effective communication between health workers and clients is known to improve clients' perception, compliance, and treatment outcomes. The main objective of this study was to determine the level of client satisfaction with health workers'-client communication among pregnant women attending ANC in selected PHC facilities Nasarawa State. The study was a cross-sectional design conducted among 450 respondents consenting pregnant women during their ANC sessions. Data was collected using a structured, interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Analysis was done using SPSS software version 20. Chi-square test and logistic regression were used for the test of significance. Results showed that 132 (29.3%) of the respondents were completely satisfied with client health worker communication. The elements of communication with the highest satisfaction were: explanation of condition to clients: 193 (42.9%); use of appropriate language: 189 (42.0%) and courtesy and respect by the provider: 188 (41.0%). Conclusion. Clients with a secondary level of education and more were more likely to be satisfied with communication with health workers. There is a need to carry out regular reorientation of PHC workers on communication with clients. (Afr J Reprod Health 2022; 26[6]:55-63)

Problématique duDiagnostic du VIH en Afrique Subsaharienne: Résultats Erronés dans une Etude Pilote (NAMSAL) au Cameroun

Introduction.The NAMSAL therapeutic trial evaluated the non-inferiority of a first line treatment comprising Dolutegravir to another line comprising Efavirenz 400. The criteria for not taking part to the trial included infection with non-M HIV-1, untreated patients with HIV viral load <1000 copies/mL. The objective of this study was to explain why some treatment naïve patients had undetectable viral loads. Materials and methods. Out of 817 patients pre-included with HIV-1 infection and untreated, 204 were not included and the present study focused on 114 of these 204 patients not included in NAMSAL. HIV plasma viral load, serological status and the serotype were confirmed by RT-qPCR (Abbott), INNOLIA HIVI/II Score (Fujirebio), and by ELISA with synthetic peptides of thedifferent HIV-1&2 groups. Universal or specific PCR (M and O) were performed on the samples for molecular confirmation and characterization. Results. Amongthe 114 patients studied, 49 (43%) had a viral load < 1000 copies/mL and 65 (57%) had a viral load > 1000 copies/mL. When reported to the whole cohort of pre-included patients (n=817), 4/817 (0.5%) were group-O confirmed by molecular biology. Based on the PCR results, 14 out of 817 patients (1.7%) deemed to be HIV-1 positive were most likely uninfected. Conclusion. 1.7% of HIV-1 patients referred for inclusion in NAMSAL were not actually infected. Ongoing staff training and quality control of laboratories must be strengthened in Cameroon in view of the social and economic consequences of misdiagnosis.

Current norms and practices in using a seizure diary for managing epilepsy: A scoping review

Epilepsy is a chronic and debilitating condition affecting people of all ages in many nations. Healthcare practitioners look for effective ways to track patients' seizures, and a seizure diary is one of the methods used. This scoping review sought to identify current norms and practices for using seizure diaries to manage epilepsy. Method: A scoping review was performed by screening relevant studies and identifying themes, categories and subcategories. Results: A total of 1125 articles were identified from the database; 46 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility, of which 23 articles were selected. The majority (48%) of the studies were prospective studies. The majority (65%) of the articles were studies conducted in the United States. The themes identified were types of seizure diaries used in clinical practice, contents and structure of a standardized seizure diary, the use and efficacy of seizure diaries in medicine and challenges relating to using a seizure diary for patient management. Conclusion: The study revealed that a seizure diary remains a relevant tool in managing epilepsy. The two forms of diaries in use are electronic and paper-based diaries. The high cost of data and the expensive devices required to access electronic diaries make it unsuitable in a resource-limited setting. Despite its disadvantages, imperfections and inadequacies, the paper-based diary is still relevant for managing patients with epilepsy in resource-limited settings. Contribution: This study reviewed the literature to find the current norms and practices in using seizure diaries. The benefits of the different formats were emphasized

COVID-19 and diabetic ketoacidosis: A case series at an urban district hospital in South Africa

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is associated with an increased prevalence and mortality from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) globally. With limited access to specialised care, most patients with DKA in South Africa are managed at district hospital level. This study describes the profile of patients admitted to a district hospital in South Africa with DKA and COVID-19 and examines associated risk factors encountered. Methods: This was a case series of all patients presenting to a district hospital with DKA and COVID-19 infection between July 2020 and July 2021. Data extracted included patients' demographic profiles, biochemical results, comorbidities and clinical outcomes. Results: The median age of the 10 patients admitted during the study period was 39 years old (±12), six of whom were male. The hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) values on admission ranged from 9.7 to 13.8. Five of the patients had pre-existing type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Four of the known DM patients were on metformin only, and one was on biphasic insulin. Three patients had other pre-existing comorbidities, two patients with hypertension and one with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Three patients demised, two of whom were hypoxic on admission. Conclusion: Diabetic ketoacidosis appears more commonly in COVID-19 infected patients with type 2 DM and at a young age. Suboptimal glycaemic control was associated with DKA, and hypoxia was a strong predictor for mortality. Treatment inertia was evident in the known DM group, who were on monotherapy despite persistent hyperglycaemia. Greater vigilance is required to detect ketosis in type 2 DM and intensify therapy to improve glycaemic control.

Oxygen as a drug and scarce commodity: Do we use it rationally?

Medical grade oxygen is classified as a drug and needs to be prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional. Oxygen therapy is prescribed to people who cannot maintain normal blood oxygen saturation while breathing atmospheric air. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the importance of the rational use of this scarce commodity. This study investigated oxygen therapy practices in adult ward patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study design with an analytical component was used in the adults' wards at a National District Hospital and the Pelonomi Academic Hospital in Bloemfontein. Data were collected from patient files, interviews and oxygen measurements of adult patients that received oxygen. Results: One hundred and fifteen patients were included in the study, of whom 47.0% received oxygen without an oxygen prescription. Around 62.3% of the patients with prescriptions did not receive oxygen as prescribed. The prescriptions and oxygen administration for COVID-19 patients were better than for non­COVID-19 patients. A quarter of the patients possibly received oxygen therapy unnecessarily. Conclusion: Poor oxygen therapy practices were identified, including prescription errors, oxygen administration errors and oxygen wastage. A protocol should be developed and implemented for the prescription and administration of oxygen therapy. Training should occur to prevent oxygen wastage. Contribution: This study highlighted poor oxygen practices and prescriptions, as well as oxygen wastage in the absence of local oxygen therapy guidelines.

Vécu psychosocial des soignants en réanimation face à la pandémie à COVID-19 au centre hospitalier universitaire de Cocody (Abidjan - cote d'ivoire) / psychosocial experiences of caregivers in intensive care in the face of the pandemic at Covid-19 at Cocody University Hospital (Abidjan - Côte d'Ivoire)

L'objectif de notre travail était d'étudier le vécu psychosocial des soignants en réanimation face à la pandémie à Covid-19. Patients et méthode : il s'agissait d'une étude descriptive transversale par questionnaire incluant les soignants du service de réanimation du Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Cocody du 1er juin au 31 juillet 2020. Résultats : quarante-cinq soignants étaient concernés avec un sex-ratio de 0,87. L'âge moyen était de 40,8±8,6 ans (27-62). Les célibataires étaient de 53% avec au moins un enfant à charge (67%). On notait 26,7% de médecins, 13,3% d'internes, 26,7% d'Infirmier Diplômé d'Etat et 33,3% d'aides-soignantes. La disponibilité des Equipement de Protection Individuelle étaient de 47%. Les travailleurs se sentaient fortement exposés (26,7%). Les situations de travail stressant étaient surtout les soins sur les patients suspects (51,2%). Les difficultés respiratoires(91%) et le manque de concentration (76%) étaient retrouvés chez les soignants stressés. Le soutien social venait surtout des familles (46,7%). Les scores de la latitude décisionnelle et de la demande psychologique étaient plutôt bas, respectivement 53% et 60%. Leur lien relationnel montrait une situation de travail génératrice de stress (22,5 %). Conclusion: Le soutien psychologique et l'approvisionnement en ressources matérielles seraient fondamentaux pour l'amélioration de la qualité de vie professionnelle des soignants

The objective of our study was to investigate the psychosocial experience of intensive care workers in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic. Patients and method: this was a descriptive cross-sectional study by questionnaire including the caretakers of the intensive care unit of the Cocody University Hospital. Results: Forty-five caregivers were involved with a sex ratio of 0.87. The mean age was 40.8±8.6 years (27-62). Single people were 53% with at least one dependent child (67%). There were 26.7% physicians, 13.3 % interns, 26.7% state-registered nurse and 33.3 % caregivers. The availability of individual protection equipment was 47 %. Workers felt highly exposed (26.7 %). Stressful work situations were mainly caring for suspicious patients (51.2%). Breathing difficulties (91%) and lack of concentration (76%) were found in stressed caregivers. Social support came mainly from families (46.7%). The scores for decision-making latitude and psychological demand were rather low, 53% and 60% respectively. Their relational relationship showed a stress-generating work situation (22.5%). Conclusion: Psychological support and the provision of material resources would be fundamental to improving the quality of work life for caregivers

Assessment of Variation in Clinical Presentation of Visceral Leishmaniasis Among Patients Attending the Tropical Diseases Teaching Hospital in Sudan

Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (also known as Kala-azar) is a systemic parasitic infection with many clinical presentations. The present study assesses the variation in presentations among patients who attended the Tropical Diseases Teaching Hospital (TDTH) in Khartoum, Sudan. Methods: This analytical cross-sectional, hospital-based study was conducted at the TDTH between November 2019 and September 2020. Medical records of patients who presented at the TDTH were reviewed using a structured data extraction checklist. The Chi-square test was used to determine the associations between sociodemographic and clinical presentations of patients. P-value < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Out of 195 patients, 79.5% were male and 48.2% were <31 years old. Fever was the main clinical presentation (90.2%) while 53.3% presented with weight loss and 72.3% and 39% presented, respectively, with splenomegaly and hepatomegaly. HIV was detected in 4.6% of the patients. RK39 was the main diagnostic test. We found a significant association between the abdominal distention and the age of the patients (P < 0.05) ­ age groups 11­20 and 41­50 years were more likely to present with abdominal distention than other age groups. Conclusion: There is no exact clinical presentation or routine laboratory findings that are pathognomonic for visceral leishmaniasis; therefore, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any patient with fever, weight loss, and abdominal distention, and among patients with HIV.

Comparison of Topical Oxygen with Vacuum Assisted Closure in Wound Healing in a Low Resource Setting

The aim of this pilot study is to obtain preliminary results comparing topical oxygen therapy (TOT) and vacuum assisted closure (VAC) in terms of its ability to accelerate wound healing. METHODS: This non-randomised prospective study included patients with age 16-50 years, wound size ≥ 16cm2 and present below knee joint within seven days of occurrence. Bates-Jensen wound assessment tool (BWAT) was used for evaluation at 8-day interval along with percent area reduction at final follow up. RESULTS: Mean number of cycles required in VAC and TOT group were 1.97 (range 1-3) and 2.1 (range 1-3) (each cycle of 5 days) per patient respectively. Percent area reduction was significantly higher in the VAC group (34±9.7%) than TOT (11.3±3.8%) group at final follow up (p<0.05). TOT patients had better improvement in epithelialization compared to VAC at last follow up. More extensive debridement was needed in patients of TOT than VAC. There was no significant difference between final score in both groups. CONCLUSION: TOT appears to be comparable to well-established VAC in treatment of fresh traumatic wounds below the knee joint. Further large scale, multicentric and randomised studies comparing both these modalities of treatment should be the way forward

Catastrophic Health Expenditure and Impoverishment from NonCommunicable Diseases: A comparison of Private and Public Health Facilities in Ekiti State, Southwest Nigeria

Catastrophic health expenditure and impoverishment are the outcomes of poor financing mechanisms. Little is known about the prevalence and predictors of these outcomes among non-communicable disease patients in private and public health facilities. METHODS: A health facility-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among 360 patients with non-communicable diseases (180 per group) selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected with a semi-structured, interviewer administered questionnaire and analyzed with IBM SPSS for Windows, Version 22.0. Two prevalences of catastrophic health expenditure were calculated utilizing both the World Bank (CHE1) and the WHO (CHE2) methodological thresholds. RESULTS: The prevalence of CHE1 (Private:42.2%, Public:21.7%, p<0.001) and CHE2 (Private:46.8%, Public:28.0%, p<0.001) were higher in private health facilities. However, there was no significant difference between the proportion of impoverishment (Private: 24.3%, Public:30.9%, p=0.170). The identified predictors were occupation, number of complications and clinic visits for catastrophic health expenditure and socioeconomic status for impoverishment in private health facilities. Level of education, occupation, socioeconomic status, number of complications and alcohol predicted catastrophic health expenditure while the level of education, socioeconomic status andthe number of admissions predicted impoverishment in public health facilities. CONCLUSION: Catastrophic health expenditure and impoverishment were high among the patients, with the former more prevalent in private health facilities. Therefore, we recommend expanding the coverage and scope of national health insurance among these patients to provide them with financial risk protection. Identified predictors should be taken into account by the government and other stakeholders when designing policies to limit catastrophic health expenditure and impoverishment among them

Patients' reactions to digital rectal examination of the prostate

Background:Digital rectal examination (DRE) of the prostate is a simple, fast, cost effective and safe procedure, however, because of previous painful experience, some men may refuse it. Other negative factors include cultural barriers, fear of discovering cancer and embarrassments. However, some men accept DRE because of their symptoms and wishes to contribute to science. The aim of this study was to examine how previous experience of DRE could influence a repeat and to further evaluate their impression before and after DRE including pain score. Patients and Methods:We evaluated one hundred patients who met the inclusion criteria using a structured questionnaire that detailed information on patients biodata, their previous DRE experiences, expectations before and reactions after a repeat. Pain score was also examined using visual analog scale of 0 to 10. Data were collated and analysed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20.0. P-value was set at <0.05. Results:Mean age of patients was 64.88±7.53 years ranging from 46 to 82 years. Forty five percent of them complained of pain from previous DRE while 55% reported no pain. Forty one percent of the men anticipated pain before this present procedure but only 8% of them reported that it was painful and humiliating after the procedure. Fifty nine percent had good impression before DRE and after the procedure 92% reported good impression. All patients expressed their willingness to repeat DRE in future if need be and to encourage friends who may need DRE evaluation of their condition. Mean pain score was 0.59± 1.349 (0 ­ 9). Conclusion:Patients previous experience of DRE could negatively influence a repeat procedure because of pain, improper counseling apart from some cultural barriers. DRE in the hands of Urologists has been better tolerated than other clinicians. This calls for proper exposure of medical students to this procedure and need for continuous medical education for other clinicians for skills improvement.

Retinal changes among pre-eclamptic patients in University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin, Nigeria

Background: Preeclampsia is one of the hypertensive disorders in pregnancy that contributes significantly to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, with the impact felt more in developing countries. It is characterized by endothelial dysfunction and vasospasm of vessels which can be observed by an ocular fundal examination. The aim of this study was to determine the ocular fundus findings of women with preeclampsia. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, carried out at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital involving a total of 220 pregnant women. The women were divided into two groups of 110 pregnant women (A&B).Their Age and Gestational age was cross-matched and retinopathy graded according to Keith and Wagner classification. Group A was made up of Preeclamptic women and Group B was made up of healthy pregnant women. Visual acuity was measured using Snellens' chart, and the fundus was examined with direct ophthalmoscope. Results: This showed that the retinal changes observed in the preeclamptic women were associated with their age (P = 0.009), gestational age (P = 0.044), blood pressure (P = 0.001), Proteinuria (P = 0.001), Severity of the disease (P = 0.001), visual acuity (P = 0.035) as well as with the visual symptoms (P = 0.001) but not statistically significant with the gravida (P = 0.799). Conclusion: Our study highlights the importance of timely ophthalmoscopy which helps to assess severity of disease (pre-eclampsia) which affects the decision of induction of delivery to predict and prevent possible complications which in turn immensely helps in judicious management of disease. Also, the study revealed that preeclamptic women who are multigravida are more likely to have retinopathy than primigravid

Comparison between herbs used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux diseases (GERD)

Background:An abnormality that causes reflux is termed as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is symptomatic by nature and adds to the long-term effects.Objective:The aim of this study is to observe and monitor the effects of a herbal ttratment of GERD with SiniZuojin Decoction (SNZID)and to assess its mediation impacts regarding the use of the medication in patients with Gastrointestinal EBB ailment.Materials and Methods:The cohort research methodology was used inthe study.The research included 2581 individual patients who were older than 18 years of age and were suffering from Gastrointestinal ebbailment. The patients were selected from various government herbal clinics in eastern China, including the states of Anhui, Fujian, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shandong, and Zhejiangover, from 2008 to 2018. Results:The study was conducted with a total of 2581 patients. The thorough assessment indicated that Sini Zuojin Decoction (SZD)notwithstanding standard stomach remedies pack was more effective than the traditionalist stomach suppositories bundle (RR=1.34, with CI=95% [1.47, 1.38], and P-value = 0.008); Test packs including SZD was essentially better contrasted with traditional stomach medicines(TSM)gearshifts in developing dyspepsia, substernal chest plague, decreasing regurgitation, and vomiting (P < 0.0002); SNZJD plus traditional stomach medicines(SPTSM)could by and large lessen full-scale sign scores with liberal ampleness (P < 0.00002). The replication degree and antagonistic effects regarding Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction(SJD)treatment were basic. As confirmed through the TSA regarding thorough assessment, the results were significant, yet repeat security consequences were uncertain. As shown by the computation of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation(GRADE)strategy, the idea regarding verification was minimal. Moreover, Schizoaffective disorder(SZD)may treat Gastrointestinal ebb ailment by presenting the onsetof the infection and controlling factors that may contribute to Gastrointestinal ebb ailments.Conclusion:The research evaluated the efficiency of Sini Zuojin Decoction in treating patients suffering from Gastrointestinal Ebb Ailments. [Ethiop. J. Health Dev.2022: 36(2) (00-00)]Keywords:GERD, Esophagitis, Sini Zuojin Decoction(SZD), Gastrointestinal ebb ailment;

Retrospective evaluation of inpatients admitted to a tertiary hospital in Somalia for Pediatric surgery

Objective: The aim is to reflect on the epidemiology of the patient population at a tertiary hospital for pediatric surgery, diagnostic pattern, and mortality in Somalia retrospectively. Methods: In this study, 163 patient who were hospitalized to Pediatric Surgery Clinic of Mogadishu Somalia Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan Training and Research Hospital in 2018 were included. Data regarding age, gender, diagnosis, surgical condition, mortality rate and cause of the death were recorded from the patient charts and the institutional digital database Results: Of 163 patients 47 were female (28.8%) and 116 were male (71.2%). The mean age of the patients was 6.4 ± 4.8 years. The main diagnoses were congenital malformation (34.4%), acute abdomen (25.8%), traumatic injury (23.3%), infection (9.8%) and neoplasm (6.1%). Mortality rate was 9.8% and the leading cause of death was sepsis by 87.5%. Perforated appendicitis, intestinal obstruction and intussusception were creating the 68.7% of the diseases that result in death. Conclusions: Our results show that two-thirds of the surgical deaths could be prevented with timely presentation. We think that the health policymakers in Somalia should focus on how to improve the access to surgical care, patient transfer, timely presentation, and training of pediatric surgeons and to overcome the poor surgical outcomes

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards drug-food interactions among patients at public hospitals in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Background: Drug-food interactions can lead to adverse drug reactions and therapy failure which can potentially impact patient safety and therapy outcome. Objectives: This study assessed patients' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding drug-food interactions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients at three public hospitals in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS® version 25. The association between demographic variables and patients' knowledge, attitudes and practices were assessed. Results: Of the 342 patients, 70.5% were female, and the mean age was 42.87±0.89 years. Almost 50% of patients had secondary level education, and 64% were unemployed. About 52% of patients had high knowledge of drug-food interactions; however, only 30-50% of the patients could identify potential drug-food interactions of their drugs. More than half of the patients (51.5%) answered that they took multivitamin pills with medications and 61.7% responded they consulted healthcare professionals for drug-food interactions' information before taking new medications. Few patients (15.2%) had experienced drug-food interactions. Conclusions: Overall, patients had gaps in their knowledge and practices, and positive attitudes towards drug-food interactions. Many patients could not identify food items that can potentially interact with their drugs. It is important that education and medication counselling are provided to patients to prevent drug-food interactions, ensure optimal drug therapy and patient safety