Department of Advanced Nursing Science

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A communal holistic therapeutic approach for psychosocial health management among Southern African indigenous communities
(2024-09-06) Mahlatsi, Khauhelo Success; Pienaar, A. J.; Mulaudzi, M. T.; Malwela, T.
Background: Mental health remains on the backseat of the global healthcare system. With more than a third of people suffering from mental health having no access to mental health services. Consequently, this research realizes that communality and Ubuntu are considered the epitomes of living systems in African indigenous communities. Therefore, the aim was to develop, confirm, and validate a Middle-range Theory of psychosocial health management among indigenous Southern African communities. Methods: An explorative sequential mixed methods design was conducted. For the qualitative strand (Phase One), a qualitative approach was used where classical Grounded Theory was employed as a design. Makgotla were used as data collection method, and theoretical sampling was used for participant selection. In Phase Two, a qualitative approach followed where a critical, integrative literature review was conducted. Purposive sampling was employed for the literature collection. Finally, for the quantitative strand, a quantitative approach was used where content validity index (CVI), content validity ratio (CVR), and Kappa statistic were used to confirm and validate the emerging theory. Purposive sampling was used, where experts were selected for the confirmation and validation of the emerging theory. Findings: This research presents an emerging Middle-range theory referred to as the ‘Inclusive Holistic Communal Psychosocial Health Management Approach.’ This approach is informed by the shared cultural belief system, co-living system, and communal therapeutic techniques. Fundamental to the emerging Middle-range theory are the five cultural axioms found in this research to be of evidential value to culturally congruent and needs-aligned psychosocial health management. Embedded in the belief that life is a holistic-circlic continuous process independent of living, wherein the point of equilibrium (good health) is the sense of balance between life and living. Furthermore, it has been found that the emerging Middle-range theory expressed through the 40-item instrument is content valid and comprehensive as all the items were found to be relevant and acceptable with I-CVI values greater than 0.79 and Kappa values above 0.74.
Open Access
Andropause stage as experienced by men in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2022-11-10) Tshabuse, Nyadzani Rachel; Ndou, N. D.; Mbedzi, T. E>
Introduction: The impact brought by Andropause amongst married couples is escalating. Its significance is nowadays unmasked and bring forth to cracked marriages that finally result in unforeseen divorces, when advancing males are no longer sexually satisfying their loving partners. Therefore, men are left with no options than to hang around with multiple partners just to ease their standing impotence. The practice might result in family violence, physical abuse and HIV and AIDS transmission. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of men during andropause stage in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Objective: The objective of the study was to explore and describe the experience of males during andropause stage. Method: The researcher employed a qualitative approach with descriptive phenomenological design. The population of the study comprised of men aged 50 years and above who have reached andropause stage, who were the members of Munnandinnyi Men’s Forum (MNNMF) at Lwamondo Tshifulanani village in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. The researcher used non-probability purposive sampling technique. Unstructured face-to-face in-depth interviews were applied as a data collection tool. The central question was pretested to prevent misinterpretations by the participants. The researcher collected data and the sample size was determined by data saturation. Data transcribed verbatim and was translated from Tshivenda to English. Data was analysed using Tesch’s eight steps criteria. The researcher ensured that trustworthiness was applied using credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. Ethical considerations were maintained throughout the study.
Open Access
Assessment of knowledge, perceptions and beliefs related to tuberculosis in the rural, communities of Vhembe District in Limpopo Province
(2013-02-25) Shiluvane, Nkhensani Grace; Risenga, P. R.; Khoza, L. B.
Open Access
An assessment of the implementation of Batho Pele principles by health care providers at selected mental health hospitals in the Limpopo Province
(2015-02-10) Mabunda, Nkhensani Florence; Lebese, R. T.; Khoza, L. B.
The Batho Pele Principles is incorporated in the National Government’s White Paper on the Transformation of the Public Service. It is applicable to the public sector, both National and Provincial Government which are regulated by Public Service Act, 1994, to guide public servants on how to practice (Draft White Paper, 1995:2). Furthermore, health care providers as public servants are expected to practice Batho Pele Principles to improve quality health care services. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of Batho Pele Principles by health care providers at selected mental health hospitals of Limpopo Province. The objectives of the study were to assess the implementation of Batho Pele Principles at the selected mental health hospitals of the Limpopo Province, to describe the challenges experienced by health care providers in the implementation of Batho Pele Principles and to formulate specific recommendations to improve and promote the implementation of Batho Pele Principles. A quantitative, descriptive research design was used and the population for the study comprised health care providers working at the selected mental health hospitals in the Limpopo Province. A probability-stratified random sampling method was used to select participants. Data were collected using a questionnaire containing both open- and close ended questions. Data were analyzed statistically by a statistician using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 21. The Higher Degrees Committee of the University of Venda and the Limpopo Province Department of Health granted permission to conduct the study. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire was ensured though conducting a literature review, which also provided operational definitions of key concepts and development of the questionnaire from existing ones, in consultation with the supervisors of this study. Adherence to ethical considerations included approval from University of Venda Health, Safety and Research Ethics Committee, thus ensuring the quality of the research, confidentiality, anonymity and informed consent. Study findings revealed that health care providers lacked certain skills in relation to mental health care users’ (MHCUs') experiences, plans and needs and that the principles of openness and transparency, redress and value for money were not easily implemented. Challenges experienced by health care providers in the implementation of Batho Pele Principles were discussed according to the eight Batho Pele Principles. Recommendations were formulated based on the findings, related to nursing practice, management, education and further research. This study was conducted to evaluate the implementation of Batho Pele Principles by health care providers at the selected mental health hospitals of Limpopo Province as a strategy to improve quality nursing care.
Open Access
Assessment of the use of personal protective clothing among health workers in selected hospitals of Vhembe District in Limpopo Province, South Africa.
(2019-09-20) Mukhawa, Cecilia; Ramakuela, N. J.; Nemathaga, H. L.
This study was carried out to assess the use of protective clothing among health care workers in selected hospitals of Vhembe District in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Protective clothing is the corner stone of health care facilities and it remains the most cost effective measure which is currently available in public health intervention. Although personal protective clothing is one of the best lines of protection against hazardous exposures, many healthcare workers either shun this protective apparel or do not wear it in an appropriate manner at the appropriate time. The purpose of the study was to assess the use of protective clothing of health care workers in selected hospitals of the Vhembe District, in the Limpopo province of South Africa. The study followed a quantitative approach using a cross-sectional design. The population comprised of all health care workers in purposefully selected hospitals and the sample was 205 health care workers who were 21 years and older. A questionnaire was selfdesigned in English, translated into Tshi-Venda, Se-Sotho and Xi-Tsonga languages. Data was collected by the researcher in selected hospitals of Vhembe District. The statistical package for social sciences (SPSS version 25) was used to analyse the collected data. Validity and reliability were ensured. Permission to conduct research was obtained from the University of Venda Higher Degree Committee, Department of Health in Limpopo Province for Ethical Clearance, and the institutions where the study was conducted. The use of protective clothing among health care workers was found to be relatively low (8, 3%) probably due to unavailability of protective clothing in the hospitals, allergic reactions and ignorance. Lack of knowledge regarding the use of protective clothing could also explain the low yield of the detected cases for not using protective clothing while on duty in this study. Based on the findings, the study conclusions and recommendations were that all health care workers should follow the stipulated policy on protective clothing and periodic awareness campaigns to be held to conscientise workers on the importance of wearing personal protective clothing.
Open Access
Attitudes of youths from 14 to 19 years towards condom use at Botlokwa, Limpopo Province
(2015-02-11) Mudau, Pfarelo Innocent; Nemathaga, L. H.; Risenga, P. R.
Open Access
Barriers regarding child psychiatric assessments by medical doctors in selected hospitals of the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
(2022-11-10) Mubvafhi, Norman Lufuno; Maluleke, M.; Raliphaswa, N. S.
Children do suffer mental health problems and they can be assisted professionally. However, most of the children with mental illness are not treated accordingly. The purpose of the study was to investigate barriers regarding child psychiatric assessment by medical doctors in selected hospitals of the Vhembe district, Limpopo Province. The study employed a qualitative approach, with an explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The population of the study were medical doctors working in the outpatient departments within five selected general hospitals in the Vhembe District (Tshilidzini, Siloam, Donald Frazer, Elim and Malamulele), who were attending to children below the age of eighteen in outpatient department mental health clinics. In-depth individual interviews were used as an instrument to collect data, which was analysed following Tesch’s steps. Four major themes emerged after substantial data analysis, namely: Challenges related to medical doctors, Challenges related to parents/guardian, Challenges related to being a child and Insufficient support. The study recommended training of the child psychiatric specialists. Future studies could be done, focusing on the development of the guidelines to implement child psychiatric policies.
Open Access
Caregivers knowledge on factors contributing diarrhoea diseases among children under five years at selected clinics in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
(2022-07-15) Mulibana, Lushaka; Raliphaswa, N. S..; Maluleke, M.
Background: Diarrheal disease is still the leading cause of mortality and morbidity among children under 5 years. WHO estimates that globally 525,000 children under five years die due to diarrheal diseases every year with 1.7 billion cases of diarrheal disease. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the caregiver knowledge on factors that contributing to diarrhoeal disease among children under 5 years at a selected public clinic, in the Vhembe district of Limpopo Province. Study setting: The study was conducted at a selected public clinic in the Vhembe district. The Vhembe District is located in the northern part of Limpopo Province, South Africa – boarded by Capricorn District in the South-West and Mopani in the East Vhembe. The district is comprised of four (4) sub-districts namely Collins Chabane, Makhado, Musina, and Thulamela Methodology: A quantitative approach using cross-sectional descriptive survey design was conducted among 185 caregivers to be conveniently selected from five clinic in Thulamela B sub district. A convenience sampling method was used to sample 185 respondents and purposive sampling was used to sample five health care facilities. A self-administered closed –ended questionnaire was used to collect data in this study and validity of the instrument was ensured and the development of instrument was guided by a wide range of literature and inputs of experts. The instrument was test-retested for reliability and Validity was ensured through face and content validity. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires and was analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version: 26.0 Descriptive statistics was used to analyse, and association was tested through cross tabulation chi-square and results was presented in the forms of tables and pie charts. Ethical measures were considered throughout the study. Results: The study found that dirty water, poor hygiene, mix feeding (exclusive breast feeding and formula milk feeding) were the most contributory factors to diarrhoea in children under five years of age. Recommendations: The recommendation were done based on the study results. Conclusion: This study concluded that health education for mothers, in particular, should be used to improve knowledge and behaviour for managing diarrhoea at home in children under the age of five.
Open Access
Challenges Encountered by Midwives When Providing Care to Preterm Babies at Selected Hospitals in Mopani District of Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2018-09-21) Mahwasane, Thendo; Maputle, M. S.; Netshisaulu, K. G.
Introduction: During the provision of care to preterm babies, midwives encounter many problems and challenges which may vary according to the gestational age of the women, condition of the foetus, availability of equipment and resources, and experience of the midwives. In addition, poor working conditions, feelings of insecurity, staff shortage, and lack of support from the management and having to deal with parents who do not comply with the hospital management plan for their babies; all contribute to the problems faced by midwives. The purpose of this study was to determine challenges encountered by midwives when providing care to preterm neonates at selected hospitals in the Mopani District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. Methods: Qualitative research in this study was conducted in a natural setting at the selected hospitals. The target population was the midwives who have been working in maternity wards for at least two years and were on duty during the period of data collection. Non-random purposive sampling was used to select the participants. Data were collected using unstructured interviews, which were tape recorded and transcribed. The six steps as described by Creswell were used for data analysis. Trustworthiness was ensured by using the model of Lincoln & Guba that included credibility, dependability, confirmability and transferability. Ethical principles, namely, permission to conduct the study, informed consent from participants, privacy, confidentiality, autonomy, anonymity and respect were observed. Results: When midwives provide care to preterm babies they often encounter multiple challenges which can be human or material resource related. In his study, midwives were found to perform their duties in the face of multiple challenges, including staff vi shortages, which resulted in exhaustion of the available midwives. Nursing a preterm baby is a challenge on its own as these babies are likely to develop clinical problems related to immaturity, e.g., hypoglycaemia, hypothermia, jaundice, sepsis and respiratory distress. Mothers may be traumatised and find it difficult to accept their babies as they are, this leads to lack of cooperation in the care of the neonate and it becomes a problem for the midwives who are directly providing such care. The aforementioned challenges are related to all the four major concepts of human caring as described by Jean Watson which are health, human being, nursing and environment. Recommendations: It is recommended that further research be conducted on the same topic, but in a different setting to generate more knowledge. Policy makers should work together with health care professionals who are directly involved in the care of preterm babies to improve the practice of the contents in the policies.
Open Access
Challenges encountered by professional nurses during supervision of care in Vhembe District hospitals in Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2020) Raliphaswa, Munyadziwa Reginah; Luhalima, T. R.; Netshandama, V. O.
Professional nurses have the responsibility of supervising the care that is rendered, the nursing personnel and patients throughout 24 hours of the day, for the purpose of ensuring quality patient care and patient safety. However, it seems that this is not happening as expected because there are continuous complaints from the patients about the poor quality of care. This study was aimed at exploring the challenges that are encountered by professional nurses during supervision of care in the district hospitals of Vhembe. A qualitative study was conducted which was explorative, descriptive, contextual and guided by an Appreciative inquiry approach. A purposive sample was used where thirty-six (36) participants were recruited and consent was obtained. Individual semi structured interviews were conducted. Data was analysed according to Tesch‟s eight steps. Trustworthiness was ensured through following the principles which are credibility, dependability, confirmability, transferability and authenticity. The findings revealed multiple challenges that professional nurses encountered during supervision of care. The main themes found were lack of resources, challenges related to the supervisees, cultural changes in nursing affecting supervision, and challenges related to education and training. Apart from challenges, there were positive aspects verbalised that enhance supervision The researcher recommended that nursing practice through the Department of Health should address issues such as shortage of staff, shortage of equipment and inadequate and/or poor infrastructure. Professional nurses should be trained on diversity management and emotional intelligence in order address the ever changing culture in nursing. Students‟ accompaniment and clinical exposure should be addressed. Future research should be conducted to outline what causes these challenges in supervision in other districts so that the findings could be representable.
Open Access
Challenges experienced by professional nurses at the rural primary health care facilities in Msukaligwa Sub-District of Mpumalanga Province, South Africa
(2022-07-15) Mafhungo, Thuso Charity; Ndou, N. D.; Nemathaga, L. H.
Professional nurses providing health care services in rural primary health care facilities need to have a broad range of skills, knowledge and stay current and up to date on different areas of healthcare. They work in an environment characterized by poor infrastructure, inadequate equipment, and medications, and yet they are expected to render quality nursing care in totality. Professional nurses in rural primary health care facilities need to be provided with enough equipment and medications for them to render quality nursing care to the patients. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the challenges experienced by professional nurses providing health care services to patients at the rural primary health care facilities in the Msukaligwa Sub-district of Mpumalanga Province. Qualitative approach with exploratory and descriptive designs were employed in this study. The study was conducted in the primary health care facilities in Msukaligwa sub-district of Mpumalanga province. The population was professional nurses allocated at the primary health care facilities in Msukakigwa sub-district of Mpumalanga province. The target population was professional nurses who had more than two years working experience in rural primary health care facilities. Non-probability purposive and convenience sampling methods were used to select the sample of the study. The sample size was 24 professional nurses. Data was collected using unstructured in-depth face to face interviews. Data were analysed using Tesch’ eight steps. Trustworthiness was ensured throughout by employing the principles of credibility, dependability, transferability, and confirmability. Ethical considerations were observed throughout the study. The study findings revealed several challenges experienced by professional nurses providing health care. Professional nurses in the Msukaligwa Sub-district are facing challenges related to shortage of manpower and resources and communication. Challenges impacted negatively on provision of patient care. Recommendations were made based on the research findings.
Open Access
Challenges faced by family caregivers of mental health care users in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province
(2021-02) Raluthaga, Mutshotshomi Nelson; Shilubane, N. H.; Mulondo, S. A.
Background: The government of South Africa changed from a hospital-based to a community-based mental health care system for mental health care users. The intention was to allow the mental health care users to be cared for in a home setting, in familiar surroundings with family support. Consequently, family members became mental health care user’s caregivers. However, despite the government’s effort, some family caregivers still report being unable to care for their mental health care users. The study aimed to investigate the challenges faced by family caregivers of mental health care users. Methods: The study was conducted using qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design. The population was family caregivers of mental health care users. Non-probability, purposive sampling was used to select a sample of ten participants. Data collection was done through semi-structured interviews, each lasting 30-45 minutes. The study sought to explore the challenges family caregivers faced when caring for mental health care users and the support they received from health care professionals to assist them in caring for these individuals. Probing was done as interviews progressed, guided by the responses of the participants. Data were analysed using Tech’s open-coding method. Measures to ensure trustworthiness were applied and ethical considerations were adhered to. Results: The study showed that family caregivers experience challenges regarding mental health care users’ adherence to medication, disruptive behaviour, interpersonal relationships and lack of support from health care professionals. Recommendations: The study recommended that health care professional give family caregivers professional support to enable them to care for their mental health care users. Health care professionals should educate these patients and their family caregivers about mental illness and the importance of adhering to treatment. Furthermore, family caregivers should be encouraged to seek help from health care professionals as soon as possible when they feel emotionally drained before becoming depressed.
Open Access
The community's perceptions regarding adolescents sexual health in Tshiungani Village, Mutale Municipality of Limpopo Province
(2017-05-18) Mashapha, Valeria Azwihangwisi; Ramathuba, D. U.; Maluleke, M.
Background: Adolescent sexual health is fundamental to the physical and emotional health, and well-being of individuals, couples, and families, as well as the social and economic development of communities and countries. The purpose and the aim of this study was to explore and describe the community’s perceptions of adolescent sexual health in Mutale Municipality, Vhembe District of Limpopo Province. Methodology: The research design of this study was qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual in nature. The population comprised of every adult community member or resident of Tshiungani Village. Both genders were included in the sample. Parents and guardians of adolescents made up the sample. Data were collected by means of in-depth face-to-face interviews. Data were analysed qualitatively using Teschs’ qualitative analysis. Findings: The study involved six themes, six categories and nineteen sub-themes. The community expressed concerns related to degradation of cultural norms and values, change in family structure, effects of media, politics, religion and poverty as affecting adolescent sexual health. Conclusion: The study explored and described the perceptions of community members regarding adolescent sexual health although the findings could not be generalized as it represents only part of the population. Recommendations: The study recommended intense sexual health education and promotion at early primary phase, career guidance to enhance and promote selfesteem, parental and community involvement in assisting and engaging adolescents with life skills within communities.
Open Access
Competence of midwives regarding prevention of low Apgar score among neonates
(2010-08) Mulondo, Seani Adrinah; Khoza, L. B.; Risenga, P. R.
See the attached abstract below
Open Access
A comprehensive sexual and reproductive health programme for secondary school learners in Capricorn and Mopani Districts of Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2018-09-21) Dilebo, Matete Enia; Lebese, R. T.; Ramathuba, D. U.; Ramakuela, N. J.
Sexual and reproductive health services include family-planning or contraception, pre-natal care, safe births and post-natal care, safe and accessible post-abortion care and where legal, access to safe abortion services, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections and cervical cancers, sexual health information, and counselling. Adolescents face many sexual and reproductive health risks, ranging from teenage pregnancy, early unprotected sex, and sexually transmitted infections. Every year one in twenty young people worldwide contracts sexually transmitted infections, and currently, fifty percent of HIV infections occur in young people aged 15-24 years. Teenage pregnancy is at alarming rate among school girls. The overall aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive sexual and reproductive health programme for secondary school learners in Capricorn and Mopani Districts of Limpopo Province, South Africa. Three objectives which guided programme development were: 1. to assess the knowledge of secondary school learners about SRH issues, 2. to assess teachers’ views about the impact of the existing SRH programmes for adolescents and 3. to explore the perceptions of parents towards the provision of SRH services in schools. Sequential mixed methods approach was used where the initial quantitative phase was followed by qualitative phase. Three steps were used as the basis for developing the programme. Step 1 used quantitative descriptive survey to assess the knowledge of learners about sexual and reproductive health issues. Step 2 also used quantitative descriptive survey to assess teachers’ views about the impact of the existing sexual and reproductive health programmes provided in schools. An exploratory qualitative method was used in step 3 to explore the perceptions of parents towards the provision of sexual and reproductive health services in schools. The study population comprised of learners, teachers and parents. Probability and non-probability sampling methods were used. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect quantitative data from learners and teachers, while in-depth face-to-face interviews were used to collect qualitative data from parents. Quantitative data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23. Qualitative data was analysed using Techs’ technique. Reliability and validity as well as trustworthiness were ensured. Ethical principles were adhered to throughout the study. Results indicated that (63%; n=69) learners were sexually active lacked knowledge about contraception (80%; n=40), STIs (38%; n=32) and (33%; n=37) had been pregnant and the mean age was 17. Eighty six (86%; n= 97) reported inaccessibility to sexual and reproductive health services. About (55%, n= 19) teachers were found to be inadequately trained and lacked training manuals. Most teachers reflected ineffectiveness of the existing programmes as evidenced by high pregnancy rates. Parents reflected difficulty in communicating sexual and reproductive health issues with teenagers and lack of knowledge, thus indicating the importance of the programme in schools. Parents also indicated the relevancy of teachers in facilitating the programme and collaboration between the Department of Education and the Department of Health. Dickoff’s six elements of the survey list was used to develop the programme. Programme validation was done by involving participants to evaluate it by completing questionnaires. The programme will empower learners to deal with sexual and reproductive health issues, resulting in decreased teenage pregnancy and other sexual risks. Collaboration and support were the recommendations directed to both the Department of Education and the Department of Health. Further research was also recommended.
Open Access
Contributory factors of noncompliance to treatment among patients diagnosed with hypertension in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province
(2018-09-21) Mashila, Vuledzani Sylvia; Shilubane, N. M.; Mulondo, S. A.
Noncompliance with antihypertensive treatment is a challenge for uncontrolled hypertension in both high income and middle income countries. Compliance to antihypertensive treatment and lifestyle modification plays a significant role in the control of hypertension and reduces the cardiovascular morbidity and mortality rate. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe contributory factors of noncompliance to treatment among patients diagnosed with hypertension in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province The study was conducted at the regional Hospital and nine Primary Health Care facilities in the rural community in the Vhembe District of the Limpopo Province. The study population consisted of those patients diagnosed with hypertension receiving treatment from the ten sampled health facilities. In this study, the target population included 134 noncompliant patients diagnosed with hypertension taking treatment at the sampled health facilities. This study used simple random sampling. The instrument used for data collection was self-administered questionnaire. Data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. The results of this current study reveal that participants aged 40 years and above (85.1%) were noncompliant to treatment compared to those of the same or less than 40 years old (14.9%). Also, it indicated that females were more frequently noncompliant to treatment (73.1%) compared to males (26.9%), which was statistically significant. The study revealed that the unmarried participants (64.9%) were more non-compliant with treatment when compared to the married participants (35.1%). The current findings demonstrate that 40.3% of noncompliant participants mentioned the reason being that they were feeling well. Various factors related to participants’ noncompliance with their antihypertensive treatment and lifestyle modification regimen were described. Health education should cover the nature of hypertension specifically emphasising causes, severity and potential complications.
Open Access
Coping strategies for mothers during child sickness in hospitals of Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2023-05-19) Mundalamo, Rebecca Nditsheni; Luhalima, T. R.; Ramakuela, N. J.
Sickness comes to families unexpectedly and frustrates family members, especially when a child falls ill. The whole family is affected by the experience of sickness and the health care process. Sickness in children happens worldwide and the person most affected is the mother. The purpose of this study was to develop coping strategies for mothers during child sickness in the hospitals of Limpopo Province (LP), South Africa (SA). The study employed an exploratory, sequential, mixed-method design wherein qualitative and quantitative data collection methods were used. Phase 1(a) explored and described the challenges of mothers during child sickness in the hospitals of Limpopo Province. Whilst Phase 1(b) was quantitative descriptive surveys. The objectives in phase 1(a) explored and described the experiences of mothers during child sickness in the hospitals of LP, SA. The sample was mothers with critically ill children under five years of age, admitted to the paediatric unit of hospitals during 2018/2019. A non-probability, purposeful sampling technique was used to select 50 participants from seven hospitals in two districts of LP, SA. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and coded and categorised using the eight steps of Tesch’s thematic analysis. Measures to ensure trustworthiness were observed. Saturation was determined when no new information was identified. Phase 1(b) included exploring coping strategies for mothers during child sickness in the hospitals of LP, SA through a quantitative approach. The population was all the health professionals at the hospitals of LP, SA. In the quantitative strand, the sample of districts and hospitals was health professionals. Questionnaires were used for data collection and the data were coded and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 26.0. Descriptive statistics based on inferential statistics were used. Results from Phase 1b were interpreted in the form of graphs, charts, and tables. The major findings of this study confirm that mothers were failing to cope during child sickness and hospitalisation. Validity, reliability and ethical considerations were ensured. In Phase 2, coping strategies were developed. Phase 3 validated the coping strategies developed in Phase 2. Conclusions and recommendations were that health professionals should be trained in customer care. The coping status of the mothers should be assessed to provide the necessary care. The results indicated that mothers were failing to cope during child sickness hence the development of strategies may assist mothers to cope.
Open Access
Defaulting rate of MDR-TB patients in the MDR unit Limpopo Province
(2016-02-01) Chauke, Lucky Themba; Netshikweta, M. L.; Netshandama, V. O.; Tuberculosis- Prevention
Open Access
Determinants of overcrowding in the regional hospital of Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
(2022-11-10) Raulisa, Mulalo; Shilubane, N. H.; Mabunda, J. T.
ntroduction: The overcrowding of patients in regional hospitals is a challenge in developing countries, primarily in the tropics and subtropics, including Africa, India, Indonesia and South Africa. Purpose: The study aims to explore and describe the determinants of patient overcrowding in the Vhembe District regional hospital. Methodology: The cause of overcrowding of patients at a regional hospital was investigated using a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design. The population was registered and enrolled nurses. The participants were selected using non-probability convenience sampling. A pre-test study was carried out to test the applicability of the research question and the time required to complete the interview. The participants who participated in the pre-test were excluded from the sample during data analysis. Data were collected through individual interviews until data saturation was reached and analysed using Tesch’s open coding. Trustworthiness was ensured by credibility, transformability, dependability and conformability. For this study, the following ethical considerations were taken into account: confidentiality, anonymity, avoiding harm from others and informed consent. Results: The findings revealed that shortage of resources, institutional factors, patient’s behavioural factors and disease outbreaks contribute to overcrowding. The impact of patient overcrowding includes patient-and staff-related effects. Recommendations: The study recommends providing adequate equipment and employing qualified nurses, giving priority to those trained by them who are unemployed to address the shortage of resources. Developing policies on patients’ referral system and educating the community members on Primary Health Care (PHC) system policies and avoiding self-referral to the hospital.
Open Access
Determination of strategies that contribute to nurse educator-student nurse neophyte interaction in the classroom setting
(2013-10-01) Mathevhula, Rirhandzu Friddah; Khoza, L. B.