Department of Public Health

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A framework addressing barriers to utilization of Elimination of Mother- to -Child Transmission of HIV services among pregnant women and lactating mothers in Gauteng Province
(2025-09-05) Nyamande, Ndivhuho; Tshitangano, T. G.; Tshivhase, S. E.
Elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV (EMTCT) is a global health priority, ensuring that no child is born with HIV. Poor utilization of EMTCT services leads to burdensome consequences such as vertical transmission of HIV and an increase in maternal and neonatal mortality rates. Despite the progress made to reduce new HIV infections in children, barriers to the utilization of the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission service remain the bottleneck that affects the program’s effectiveness. Pregnant and lactating women face many challenges that can contribute to loss of follow-up during their prenatal and postnatal care. This study developed a framework to enhance the utilization of the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV services among pregnant women and lactating mothers in Gauteng province. A convergent parallel mixed methods design was used, where exploratory-descriptive qualitative approaches were concurrently run with the quantitative approach employing a cross-sectional descriptive design. A convenience sampling method was used to select these women based on accessibility and availability, ensuring the study's comprehensive coverage. A self-administered questionnaire was utilized to assess 681 pregnant and breastfeeding women. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics using STATA 15.0. Validity and reliability issues were considered in the study to ensure the consistency of the work. For the qualitative approach, a convenience and purposive sampling method was used to select eligible pregnant and lactating women. A semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data until data saturation occurred after interviewing 25 participants. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically. Trustworthiness was ensured through Credibility, Confirmability, Transferability, and Dependability for the quantitative approach. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout the study. The findings were conceptualized using the health belief model. The results were interpreted and integrated. The combined qualitative and quantitative data gave a deeper understanding of the barriers to EMTCT utilization and perceived strategies to enhance its utilization. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats analysis were employed to guide the development of the framework using the BOEM model. Validation of the developed framework was done through stakeholder consultations and the Delphi technique. Experts and stakeholders participated in the process of validating and confirming the effectiveness of the developed framework to enhance the utilization of EMTCT services in Gauteng province. The framework can improve the utilization of EMTCT services among pregnant and lactating women with continued efforts to enhance the accessibility and utilization of EMTCT services, promoting the health and well-being of both mothers and their children. It is believed that the implementation of the developed framework will benefit all women of childbearing age throughout Gauteng province.
Open Access
Access barriers to Campus Health Services among University of Venda students
(2017-05-18) Olumide, Oladimeji Sanyaolu; Kyei, K. A.; Mabunda, J. T.
South African youth, like many young people the world over, experience obstacles related to accessing age-specific health care services. School-based health centres, therefore, represent a mode of delivery of youth-friendly services tailored to meeting the healthcare needs of young people, such as university students. The aim of the study was to investigate the barriers faced by University of Venda (UNIVEN) students in accessing the institution’s health services.The objectives of the study were to assess the level of awareness of the respondents regarding the UNIVEN campus health services and to determine the availability and acceptability barriers experienced by students in accessing the campus health services.The study is quantitative using a self-administered questionnaire, informed by literature review, to collect data from the respondents. The study population consisted of all the students who were resident on campus. The sample size were five hundred and thirty four (534) respondents drawn from all the residences on the university campus and comprising of students from all the schools and levels. Questionnaires were administered face-to-face to respondents in the respondents’ rooms. The validity and reliability of the study were ensured. Ethical considerations, such as informed consent, right to privacy, and no-harm to participants, were observed and addressed in this study. Data was entered and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences 23. For continuous variables such as age, descriptive variable was calculated. For categorical variables, frequencies and percentages are presented.The results indicated that the average age of the study population was 21.85 years with almost all of the respondents (95%) being aware of the existence of a health clinic on the Univen campus. However, only 63% had gone for consultation at the clinic. Awareness of the clinic’s services appears to be poor, with HIV Counselling & Testing being the most known service, while minor illnesses’ management was the most utilised service (48%). Barriers experienced by the respondents were related to waiting times and opening hours of the clinic, with only 33% and 39% respectively, describing them as ideal.The study provides evidence that although university health services may be provided at no cost students still experience barriers in accessing them. Effective measures are needed to increase students’ awareness of the clinic’s services and to shorten waiting times and improve clinic opening hours.
Open Access
An evaluation of the level of awareness about occupational health and safety practices among workers at University of Venda
(2012) Nkuna, Thokho; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli. A. K.
Occupational hazards cause or contribute to the premature death of millions of people worldwide and results in the ill health or disablement of hundreds of millions more each year. World Health Organisation reports, indicated that occupational risk factors account globally for a number of morbidity conditions, including 37% of back pains, 16% of hearing loss, 13% of chronic obstructive lungs disease, 11% of asthma, 10% of injuries and 9% of lung cancer. According to the report, mortality is also due to work related injuries causing nearly 310,000 deaths each year and nearly 146,000 deaths are attributable to work related carcinogens (WHO, 2005). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the level of awareness about occupational health and safety practices among University of Venda workers. The study employed a cross sectional descriptive design. A questionnaire was used to collect data. The study population was all the workers who were more at risk of occupational health hazards on daily basis than others from the following departments: Ground I horticulture, Technical services, Protection and cleaning services. The questionnaire was self - administered and the data was analysed descriptively using the SPSS (Statistical Programme for Social Sciences). The results of the study revealed that the level of awareness about occupational health and safety was poor based on the following findings: 46 (3.7%) never heard about Occupational Health and Safety Act before, while 37 (30.3%) heard about OHS Act from their previous jobs. Forty nine percent revealed that there is no OHS in the premises, while 65 (53.3%) revealed that there have no representatives in the Occupational Health and Safety Committee. Furthermore, 57 (46.72%) knew nothing about the role of safety representatives. It was recommended that the University should create awareness among the workers by establishing health and safety education programmes.
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An Investigation of Patient Satisfaction on Service Delivery at the Selected Clinics in the Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe District
(2025-09-05) Netshikweta, Thama; Manganye, B. S.
Patient satisfaction is a critical indicator of the quality of healthcare services and plays a significant role in shaping health outcomes and patient loyalty. This study investigates patient satisfaction with service delivery at selected clinics in the Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe District, South Africa. The region, characterised by diverse healthcare needs and socio-economic challenges, provides a unique setting to evaluate healthcare delivery and identify areas for improvement. The purpose of the study was to investigate the level of patient satisfaction with service delivery at five selected clinics in Thulamela Local Municipality. The present study adopted a quantitative research approach, using structured questionnaires distributed to 441 patients across five clinics, with three hundred valid responses analysed using SPSS version 27. Findings revealed mixed levels of satisfaction, with factors such as clinic cleanliness and nurse competency receiving positive feedback, while long waiting times, limited availability of medication, and inadequate patient communication were highlighted as areas of concern. Gender and employment status influenced satisfaction levels, with women reporting higher satisfaction, likely due to greater healthcare engagement, whereas unemployed patients faced barriers in accessing quality care. This study underscores the need for targeted improvements in service efficiency, resource availability, and healthcare provider-patient interactions. Recommendations include employing quality assurance officers, conducting regular patient satisfaction surveys, and enhancing staff training in patient-centered care. Consequently, by addressing identified gaps, healthcare policymakers and administrators can improve patient experience, strengthen healthcare delivery, and promote equitable access to quality services.
Open Access
Analysis of hygiene practices among learners in selected Makhado Municipality Secondary Schools in Limpopo Province
(2022-11-10) Mamafha, Ndivhuwo Cynthia; Nemathaga, L. H.; Mudau, A. G.
Hygiene is a health determinant; a person’s state of health is determined by the hygienic conditions where he or she finds himself or herself. Poor knowledge, negative attitude and poor practices of hygiene have a negative effect on a person’s health, as there are diseases associated with poor hygiene practices. The purpose of the study was to analyse hygiene practices of learners in selected Makhado Municipality secondary schools in Limpopo province. The study adopted the quantitative approach. The researcher used cross sectional descriptive design. The population for this study were learners from grade 8 from the following 5 Secondary Schools under Nzhelele Central Circuit: Tshala, Dimbanyika, Tshamakwatini, Tswime and Velelambeu. Non-probability, purposive sampling method was adopted to select the respondents. A self-administered questionnaire consisting of close-ended questions was used to collect data from 250 respondents. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 25,0. Data was analysed The validity of the instrument was ensured through face and content validity. The researcher ensured reliability of the instrument by using the test-retest method. Code of ethics to protect the rights of participants were applied and observed. The study revealed that 93% of respondents knew that diseases could spread from a person to another and 7% of respondents did not know that disease can spread from a person to person. 85% of respondents did not know that washing with or without a soap is the same. Furthermore, the study revealed that 71% of respondents do not eat from the same plate with someone and 75% sometimes do eat with someone in the same plate. The study also revealed that 60% of respondents wash their teeth twice a day and 37% once a day. The study concludes that high school learners have high knowledge regarding hygiene practices. The study also concludes that learners had higher knowledge regarding the spread of diseases. Recommendations: it is recommended that professional nurses and social workers should conduct awareness campaigns regularly in both clinics and schools to reinforce knowledge among young people about hygiene practices. Government should impose harsh laws against people found littering which will jeopardise public’s health.
Open Access
Assessement of client satisfaction with services offered at Dr C. N. Phathudi Hospital in Limpopo Province l
(2015-03-04) Masango, Sylvia Tshimangadzo; Maluleke, T .X.; Maluleke, F. R. S.
Open Access
Assessment of community knowledge and prevention practices of malaria in Mutale Municipality, Vhembe District
(2019-09-20) Munyai, Livhuwani; Mashau, N. S.; Tshivhase, S.
Background: Malaria is a public health issue killing more than 435 000 people in Sub Saharan Africa. In South Africa, malaria is endemic in 3 provinces namely: Limpopo, Mpumalanga and Kwazulu Natal. Limpopo Province contributes more cases than the other provinces in the country. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to assess community knowledge and prevention practices of malaria at Masisi village, in Mutale Municipality, Vhembe District. The study was conducted at Mutale municipality, Vhembe District. Methodology: A quantitative cross-sectional descriptive approach was used. Data was collected using a questionnaire with open and close ended questions. The targeted population was made up of males and females between the ages of 18 to 75. Validity and reliability have been ensured in the study and the results for reliability were 0.85. Pretesting was done in 5 household at Sanari village which is near Masisi village as they share the same characteristics. A sample of 152 participants was selected from the target population by means of systematic sampling and then select them randomly. Questionnaires were used to collect data. There after Data were analyzed using SPSS version 24.0. The analyzed data were presented in tables, graphs, and in percentages. Results: The findings revealed that majority of the participants 103(67.8%) have secondary education, and most of them, 103(67.8%) are unemployed. The study revealed that about 77% have knowledge regarding malaria transmission. About 130(85.5%) indicated that malaria is caused by a mosquito bite. About 57(38.51%) indicated that they use mosquito coils and nets in their household. Conclusion: Malaria still poses a threat to the lives of people living in malaria endemic areas. Community members at Masisi village have better insight regarding malaria transmission, causes and signs and symptoms. Although the community shows a better understanding of the prevention method they still has to put this into practice in order to eliminate malaria in the area. Health workers are doing a great job in educating the community regarding malaria related issues.
Open Access
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practice of University of Venda male students regarding male circumcision, Limpopo Province
(2017-05-18) Philips, Victor Eyo; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A. K.
Male circumcision is being promoted in University of Venda presently due to the South African recent awareness that it is a method of preventing the transmission of the Human Immunodeficiency virus. However, for effective implementation, it is necessary that the students believe in the procedure and have a positive attitude towards the procedure. Purpose of study The objective of the study was to assess the University of Venda male student knowledge and perception regarding male circumcision. Methodology Method to achieve this was a cross sectional quantitative study using anonymous questionnaire among the male students in university of Venda after obtaining their consent. Data was captured and analyzed using SPSS. Result A total of 285 male students participated in the study. Most of them (77.2%) were undergraduate below 30years of age (91.2%) while others were post graduate (22.8%). Majority of them are Christians (97.9%), singles (85.9%) and married (12.6%).Result obtained showed that most of the respondent (87.9%) are circumcised, only a minority few (12.1%) are not circumcised. As regards the meaning of male circumcision (75.2%) said that male circumcision is the complete removal of theforeskin. Majority of the respondents (86.6%) responded that circumcision is better than uncircumcision, showing a relatively good knowledge of benefits of male circumcision, one-third of the respondent (39.9% ,37.8%) showed a good knowledge regarding the merits of male circumcision as per reducing the rate of STIs and the risk of HIV/AIDS. Conclusion Conclusively,most of the University of Venda students have a good knowledge of male circumcision, only a few are not knowledgeable about male circumcision. Also a positive attitude was shownon male circumcision with only a few students showing a negative attitude.While majority of the respondents practice male circumcision.They also encourage their siblings to do so. Recommendations The study made a number of recommendations that were intended to improve knowledge, attitude and practice of male circumcision, it calls for long campaign to reach more uncircumcised Univen students in order to scale up male circumcision and train more personnel to administer the ritual safely and under more hygienic conditions.
Open Access
Assessment of media acquired HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes and practices among learners at Collins Chabane Local Municipality in Vhembe District.
(2022-07-15) Vukeya, Margareth; Tshitangano, T. G.; Netshisaulu, K. G.
HIV/AIDS is a global public health problem with the highest number of HIV positive adolescents. In sub-Saharan Africa about 1.5 million adolescents are living with HIV. Limpopo province has become the fifth contributor to HIV/AIDS incidence among the nine Provinces of South Africa with Vhembe District contributing more than 6.9 % of the provincial HIV/AIDS burden. Adolescents’ risky sexual behaviors are blamed for high HIV/AIDS burden. Certain factors including knowledge, attitudes and practices are believed to influence risky sexual behaviors among adolescents. Knowledge can be acquired from various sources. Adolescents acquire much of their general knowledge from media. The purpose of the study is to investigate media acquired HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes and practices among learners at Collins Chabane Local Municipality in Vhembe District. A descriptive quantitative survey was conducted using cross sectional study design from May 2021 to June 2021.From the total population of 1276 grade 12 learners from Collins Chabane Local Municipality, a sample size of n=400 was drawn using slovin’s formula. Therefore 400 grade 12 learners participated in the study. Data collection was done using researcher-administered questionnaire and data analysis done using SPSS version 26.0. Most (84.5%, n=338) of learners had right information about HIV/AIDS acquired from life Orientation school lessons as their primary source of information. Majority (97 %, n = 388) of learners knew condoms as one of the prevention method for HIV/AIDS, but (50.75%, n =203) of learners had negative attitudes towards condom use because they believed that condoms reduces sexual pleasure. The study also found that learners have already started having sexual intercourse when (50%, n =198) of learners reported that abstaining from sex is no longer serious. About (41.56%, n = 166) of learners watch HIV/AIDS related programs on TV, while the majority (48.61%, n =193) of learners acquired HIV information from radio’s. Few (23.27%, n = 91) of learners read HIV/AIDS related programs on pamphlets, while (13.25%, n =53) of learners reported an internet for HIV/AIDS information. It is therefore concluded that TV and Radio are two leading media sources of HIV/AIDS information for adolescents; and that perceptions about condom are still barriers to condom use among learners. It is therefore important that media platforms targeting adolescents should be strengthened to disseminate correct information.
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Assessment of Sport Participation for People with Disabilities at Universities in Limpopo Province
(2025-09-05) Mokwena, Tobias Johannes; Tshitangano, T. G.; Tshivhase, S. E.
Background: Despite the notable progress that has been made in developing policies and putting structures in place to respond to the needs of people with disabilities in South Africa, people with disabilities are exposed to restrictive environments, discouraging them from participating in sports activities designed to promote a healthy lifestyle. These restrictive environments include architectural, societal, and personal barriers. The study aimed to assess, develop, and validate a sports participation program for people with disabilities at the rural universities in Limpopo Province. Methods: An exploratory sequential mixed methods design was conducted in three phases. Phase one of the study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches. In Phase two, a meta-analysis was performed, along with the conceptualization and development of the intervention program using the health promotion model, BOEM, and SWOT analysis. Phase three employed the Delphi Technique to validate the developed intervention program. The study adopted purposive sampling and total population sampling techniques. Trustworthiness was ensured through measures of credibility, confirmability, transferability, and dependability. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with 16 students with disabilities, 10 disability unit staff, and 3 staff members from sports and recreation. Quantitative data were collected using structured self-administered questionnaires distributed to 164 participants, which included 150 students with disabilities, 10 disability staff, and 4 sports and recreation staff. The instrument’s reliability was established through a series of questions designed to assess sports participation guidelines for people with disabilities at selected rural-based universities in Limpopo Province. Ethical principles of informed consent, anonymity, privacy, confidentiality, and avoidance of harm were adhered to throughout the research process. Qualitative data were analysed through a thematic 6-step data analysis. Quantitative data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 29.0. The study findings were conceptualised using the health promotion model and SWOT analysis. Results: The study findings were integrated, and the interpretation of the findings was discussed. Six themes emerged from the qualitative study findings: inclusion of students with disabilities to participate in sports activities; challenges discouraging students with disabilities from participating in sports activities; provision of conducive sports facilities; support from the rural-based universities in Limpopo Province; benefits of participating in sports, and strategies to encourage students with disabilities to participate in sports activities. These themes, developed from qualitative data analysis, were confirmed by the quantitative data findings. Specifically, 115 (76.7%) of the participants acknowledged the benefits of participating in sports activities. However, the study revealed that 111 (74%) participants experienced discrimination when attempting to participate in sports activities, and 92 (61.3%) experienced stigmatization when participating in sports activities. Additionally, the study indicated that sports facilities at the rural universities in Limpopo Province are not conducive for people with disabilities. A significant number of participants, 90 (60.0%), reported that there are no sports competitions for people with disabilities. Furthermore, 70.0% revealed that disability structures are not involved in planning adaptive sports activities. The study findings were presented to the disability support staff and the unit of Sports and Recreation staff at rural-based universities in Limpopo Province. The study findings informed the development of an intervention program, which consists of three components: personal factors, situational influences, and commitment to the plan of action. Stakeholders validated the designed intervention program, and the descriptive statistics were used to assess and summarize the data using tables, pie charts, and frequency distributions. The program is practical and can effectively address the challenges that discourage students with disabilities from participating in sports activities. Conclusion: People with disabilities experience several challenges that include architectural barriers, societal barriers, and personal barriers discouraging them from participating in sports activities designed to promote a healthy lifestyle. Recommendations: Universities should provide accessible and user-friendly sports facilities for students with disabilities and non-disabled students to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Open Access
An assessment of the implementation of the Hearing Conservation Programme: a case study of Farm Workers in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province in South Africa
(2017-05-18) Ratshilumela, Thinawanga Patricia; Mashau, N. S.; Ramathuba, D. U.
Hearing Conservation Programme (HCP) has been reported to be effective in protecting the hearing of South African workers who are exposed to occupational noise. In order to reduce Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) among these workers, a team work that includes an Occupational Audiologist in the proper implementation of hearing conservation programme is needed. The aim of this study was to assess the implementation of hearing conservation programme amongst farm workers in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province in South Africa.A quantitative research approach using cross sectional survey design was used to assess the implementation of the programme among farm workers in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province in South Africa. A self administered questionnaire with both open and closed ended questions was administered to both males and female respondents aged between 19 and 50 years. A total population of 260 farm workers were systematically selected and a sample size of 76 respondents were randomly selected and participated in the study. Permission to conduct the study was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the University of Venda and the office in charge of royal macadamia. The data collected was analyzed using the Statistical package of Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23,0 software. A test-retest method was used to ensure reliability and findings of the study and formed the basis of recommendations. The results of the study indicate that 82,9% of the workers who were exposed to noise for more than 14hours were not using hearing protection devices even though they were supplied. The training on the effects of noise on hearing was received by a quarter (25%) of the farm workers leaving out a large portion of 75% of workers not knowledgeable about the hearing conservation programme. A very small percentage of 3,9% indicated that they had a documented hearing loss against a large number of 96,1%. The findings show that only engineering noise controls are available and there were no provision of noise maps as part of monitoring hearing conservation programme.The farm workers need to be motivated to wear hearing protection devices in order to conserve their hearing. The management of the farm may organize an in-service training regarding the proper implementation of hearing conservation programme.Dermacation of noise zones would remind workers to put on their ear protectors before entering the noise area as part of monitoring the hearing conservation programme.
Open Access
Assessment of the quality of heathcare services rendered to patients in public health facilities in Gert Sibande District, Mpumalanga Province at South Africa
(2016-05) Nkosi, Sibusiso Frank; Tugli, A. K.; Ramakuela, N. J.
See the attached abstract below
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Barriers to accessing Public Primary Health care among elderly people in Mpheni village, Limpopo Province.
(2025-09-05) Netshakhuma, Ndaedzo
Background As individuals age, their health demands increase compared to younger populations. When these demands are not adequately met by Primary Health Care (PHC) systems, it can lead to the progression of chronic diseases, increased comorbidities, and worsening health outcomes. This, in turn, reduces the overall quality of life for older adults. There is a gap between the ideal PHC policy framework and its practical implementation, especially in rural communities like Mpheni Village, Limpopo Province. Purpose of the Study This study aimed to explore and describe the barriers preventing the elderly population of the Mpheni community from accessing and benefiting from PHC services. Methods An exploratory qualitative research design was used. Participants were selected through non-probability convenience sampling, focusing on those aged 60 years and above, residing in Mpheni, and self-reporting challenges in accessing PHC services. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 10 participants and analysed using thematic content analysis. Ethical principles including informed consent, confidentiality, and trustworthiness were strictly observed. Results The study identified several barriers to PHC access, including long waiting times caused by staff shortages, transportation challenges due to poor infrastructure and high costs, and frequent medication shortages. These issues negatively impacted participants’ health, exacerbated chronic conditions, and led to psychological distress such as anxiety, depression, and feelings of neglect. While clinics were praised for their cleanliness and free services, participants expressed the need for specialised elderly care, improved communication about medication availability, and mobile clinic services. Recommendations To improve PHC service delivery for the elderly in rural areas, the study recommends the introduction of mobile clinics, training of PHC personnel in geriatric care, timely medication supply, and enhanced transport services. Policies must be tailored to ensure accessibility and responsiveness to the needs of the ageing population.
Open Access
Caring for children with cerebral palsy: experiences of caregivers in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
(2019-05-16) Manyuma, Duppy; Maluleke, M.; Manganye, B. S.
Cerebral palsy is a condition which affects the normal functioning of children. Most children with this condition rely on other people for the execution of basic skills on a daily basis. The study aim was to explore the experiences of caregivers for children with cerebral palsy in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province. A qualitative approach using explorative, descriptive, and contextual design was used for this study. Simple random sampling was used to sample eight caregivers. Data was collected using semi-structured in-depth individual interviews which were pre-tested in Vhembe District, using two caregivers who did not form part of the study. Data was analysed using thematic analysis approach. Credibility, dependability, conformability and transferability were upheld to ensure trustworthiness of the study. Ethical considerations were adhered to throughout the study. Two main themes emerged during data analysis, namely: positive experiences of caregivers and challenges faced by caregivers. The study recommends: development of a model to support caregivers in caring for children with cerebral palsy; and the investigation of the prevalence of back-pain amongst caregivers of children with cerebral palsy in Vhembe District.
Open Access
Challenges and coping mechanisms of home based care givers for people living with HIV/AIDS in Xikundu community, South Africa
(2017-09-18) Tshabalala, Tintswalo Portia; Tshitangano, T. G.; Mashau, N. S.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
Challenges and coping strategies of caregivers caring for elderly people living with diabetes mellitus in a selected village of the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
(2020) Mamatsharaga, Ipfi Patience; Mashau, N. S.; Phiri, C. M.
Most elderly people with diabetes mellitus are community dwelling and cared for by local healthcare providers and frequently by caregivers within the elders' homes. Care for these elders is often suboptimal compared with that of elderly people without diabetes. the purpose of this study was to investigate the challenges experienced by caregivers of elderly people living with diabetes mellitus in a selected village of the Vhembe district in the Limpopo province. The study adopted a qualitative research approach using an exploratory design to provide insights into the challenges experienced by caregivers of elderly people living with diabetes mellitus. This research used purposive sampling to ensure that the empirical evidence retrieved is detailed and objective. Before data collection, the researcher applied for ethical clearance to the University of Venda Research Ethics Committee. Ethical considerations adhered to include anonymity, informed consent and voluntary participation. Data was collected using a semi-structured interview method, using an interview guide. Interviews and discussions with caregivers were audio-taped with permission from participants. Data saturation occurred after interviewing 17 participants. Data were transcribed verbatim and later translated into English by an English language expert. Data was coded into larger themes and categories by means of a thematic analytical approach. Measurements of trustworthiness such as conformability, dependability, transferability and credibility were ensured. The findings of the study revealed that caregivers of elderly people living with diabetes mellitus experience financial challenges when caring for diabetes mellitus patients. It was also revealed by the study findings that caregivers of elderly people living with diabetes mellitus suffer from physical, psychological psychosocial and psych spiritual stress. Time management and poor performance at work were also revealed by the study findings as challenges for the caregivers who are working. Keywords: Caregivers, Challenges, Diabetes Mellitus, Elderly People, Experiences
Open Access
Challenges confronting professional nurses implementing the nurse-initiated and managed antiretroviral treatment programme in Vhembe District, South Africa
(2016) Rasalanavho, Rambani Norman; Ramathuba, D. U.; Mashau, N. S.
Antiretroviral treatment (ART) roll-out presents new opportunities and challenges for nurse-initiated-andmanaged antiretroviral treatment (NIMART) trained nurses in the primary health care (PHC) facilities. Nurses have had central role in the management of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) since the disease was first reported. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the challenges confronting professional nurses implementing the NIMART programme in PHC facilities under Thulamela B Municipality, Vhembe District. This study used a qualitative approach in which the interview was used as a data collection technique. The target population comprised professional nurses who were trained in NIMART and who were implementing the programme. Probability sampling, in particular its sub-type, the simple random sampling technique, was used to select fifteen PHC facilities within the sub-District. The non-probability purposive sampling technique was used to select the NIMART-trained professional nurses in Thulamela B sub-District. The sample size was determined by data saturation. Data were collected from the participants through semi-structured interviews, observations and field notes to assist in transcription. A digital recorder was used to log individual responses during the interview sessions. Data from the digital recordings were transcribed verbatim. Results were analysed and interpreted thematically. This study establsihed that nurses were facing several challenges such as shortages of infrastructure and medication, lack of support from management and non-NIMART-trained nurses and discrimination. The NIMART programme was poorly supported in terms of nurse training as nurses indicated that they faced problems in performing tasks such as obtaining blood from children. Doctors were also reported to not fully supporting the NIMART programme. NIMART-trained nurses were optimistic with the implementation of the programme dispite the challenges they faced. To overcome some of the challenges faced at workplaces, nurses devised mechanisms such as allocating different times for collecting tablets and review, and group education for those consulting. It was also established that nurses provided support to each other. Nurses were reported to be using their own transport to collect drugs from the local pharmacy store. Recommendations that emanated from the discussion of the findings and the conclusions of this study are likely to have implications and applications for supporting and advancing the NIMART programme.
Open Access
Challenges experienced by community home-based caregivers caring for people living with HIV/AIDS: A case of Tsianda Village in Makhado Municipality, South Africa
(2018-08-21) Mahlophe, M.; Mashau, N. S.; Mabunda, J. T.
Human Immune Deficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) place a significant burden on the caregivers for people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Caring for PLWHA is usually carried out by community members who are recruited from the same community as the PLWHA. These community members are trained to provide services as volunteer caregivers. The caregivers face various challenges in the process of giving care to PLWHA, often inadequately assisted by relatives, friends, neighbours, private individuals, grassroots traditional and political leaders. This results in caregivers being overwhelmed by their responsibilities, making their coping process even more difficult. The aim of this study was to explore the challenges experienced by community home-based caregivers (CHBCGs) caring for people living with HIV/AIDS at Tsianda Village, in Makhado Municipality, South Africa. This study adopted a qualitative explorative design. The population for this study were all CHBCGs caring for PLWHA. Non probability purposive sampling was used to select the community home-based caregivers working at Tsianda Community Home-based care organisation. In-depth interviews, using a semi-structured interview guide, was conducted by the researcher and a voice recorder were used to record data from participants. Data saturation was reached at the 11th participant. This is when the participants were no longer giving new information. The data collected from the study were analysed thematically. The following themes emerged from data analysis: Challenges for community home-based caregivers, perceived support for community home-based caregivers, coping strategies for community home-based caregivers. Measures to ensure trustworthiness and the code of ethics to protect the rights of the participants was applied and observed. The findings of the study revealed that community home-based caregivers experience various challenges which have a negative impact on their personal life, as well as their physical and psychological wellbeing. Community home-based care also uses different strategies to cope with these challenges. It was concluded that the community home-based caregivers are experiencing serious shortages of personal protective equipment, which makes them work with the fear of being infected with the diseases. It is recommended that the DOH should take it into consideration to provide the CHBCG’s organization with enough personal protective equipment for their safety and working without fear of being infected with deadly viruses.
Open Access
Challenges experienced by primary and secondary caregivers of children on Antiretroviral Therapy at Mutale Municipality in the Vhembe District of Limpopo Province
(2015-07-23) Mafune, Vhilinga Rudzani; Lebese, Rachel Tsakani; Nemathaga, Livhuwani Hilda
Open Access
Challenges faced by community caregivers rendering services to children in drop-in-centres in Musina Municipality, South Africa
(2015-02-18) Mbedzi, Azwinndini; Akinsola, H. A.; Tugli, A.