ABSTRACT
Objective: This study obtained information on Paracetamol (PCM) Dispensing Practice of Government Health Clinics (GHC) post infants’ vaccination in Malaysia as well as identify its possible factors. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional retrospective study (with convenient sampling) using a data collection form (DCF) to collect data. The pharmacist who is the representative of the GHC filled the DCF. Potential risk factors were evaluated by Pearson chi-square tests (expected count<5 is<20%) for an independent sample. Results: A total number of 254 samples were collected all over Malaysia within the period of data collection, but only 248 that met inclusion criteria. The PCM dispensing practice of GHC in Malaysia for a total period of 3 y back (from 2015-2017), tend not to give PCM post immunization with respect to age of the upon vaccination and types of vaccination, conversely for gender. Trends of PCM dispensing practice were increasing for “Not Give PCM” with respect to gender, age of the baby upon vaccination, and types of vaccination from 2015 till 2017. The PCM dispensing practice had no association with no statistically significant value (p=0.804) on genders and a weak positive association with statistically significant value (p<0.05 each) on age of the baby (≤ 1year) upon vaccination and types of vaccination. Conclusion: Future research which may include the actual practice in which practices of prescribers or mother may be conducted in determining more accurate data on the giving PCM post infant’s vaccination.
ABSTRACT
@#Introduction: Mak nyahs are locally known male-to-female transgenders in Malaysia. In Western countries, medicalization of transgenderism allows strictly selected patients to undergo sex reassignment surgery. However, a standardized treatment system is not yet available in Malaysia. A number of mak nyahs underwent sex reassignment surgery at their own will. This study aimed to explore mak nyahs’ knowledge and perception on sex reassignment surgery. Materials and Methods: A qualitative research was carried out from 13th July 2016 till 31st August 2016 among 8 adult mak nyahs in Kuantan, Pahang. Snowball sampling was used. Participants who gave verbal consent were interviewed individually and in focus groups. Data obtained was transcribed and used as the primary data source. Results: All informants were Malays and Muslims. They generally had some knowledge about the standard procedures and risks in sex reassignment surgery. All informants expressed their desire to have the surgery, but chose not to. Reasons discouraging them from having the surgery were: i) religion, ii) forbiddance from family, iii) fear of regret, iv) death from surgery, and v) the lack of necessity. Factors driving them to have the surgery: i) more income from sex work, ii) pressure from sex clients, iii) securing a stable relationship, iv) self-satisfaction, and v) hope for a better future. Conclusion: Religion seemed to be the main reason refraining them from undertaking the surgery. Counselling mak nyahs should include the advantages and disadvantages of sexual reassignment surgery. Islamic religious preaching is very important to help reduce high risk behaviours, as well as teaching mak nyahs to cope with challenges in adult life. Further research is necessary to show association between religious knowledge and successful rehabilitation of the mak nyahs’ community.