Student's Journal of Health Research Africa
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Exploring the knowledge, attitudes and practices of students at Mangosuthu University of Technology on hand hygiene.
Get PDFBackground:
Hand hygiene is one of the most effective and low-cost methods to prevent infectious disease transmission, yet compliance remains suboptimal. This study aimed to compare hand hygiene knowledge, attitudes, and practices between Environmental Health (EH) and Information Technology (IT) students at Mangosuthu University of Technology.Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 210 students (101 EH, 109 IT) using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using MS excel for descriptive statistics, t-tests, and correlation analysis.Results:
Overall, EH students showed higher knowledge (86.9 %) and attitudes (91 %) towards daily hygiene scenarios compared to IT students which recorded 78.8 % and 81 % on knowledge and attitude respectively while practice gaps persisted in both groups. Attitude emerged as the key driver of practice. Statistical analysis showed significant differences (p<0.05) between the groups in all KAP domains. Correlation results indicated that attitude (r = 0.29) was a stronger predictor of hygiene practice than knowledge(r=0.002). Conclusions:
EH students demonstrated superior knowledge, attitudes, and practices compared to IT students, but the knowledge did not consistently translate into behavior. Findings suggest that positive attitudes were more influential than knowledge in driving consistent hygiene practices.
Recommendations:
The study recommends integrating hand hygiene awareness into non-health curricula, improving access to soap and sanitizers, and reinforcing behavior change through student-led campaigns and institutional support
Comparative and correlative levels of copper, zinc, with ceruloplasmin and metallothionein in art-HIV infected and non-art-HIV infected subjects: A cross-sectional study.
Get PDFBackground:Trace elements such as copper and zinc, along with their transport proteins ceruloplasmin and metallothionein, play crucial roles in immune function and oxidative balance. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) alter these micronutrient levels, influencing disease progression and metabolic complications.
Objectives:
To compare and correlate copper, zinc, ceruloplasmin, and metallothionein levels between ART-HIV–infected and non-ART-HIV–infected subjects and evaluate associated biochemical and metabolic parameters.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 HIV-infected subjects (100 on ART, 100 not on ART) attending a tertiary care center. Demographic, physical, lipid, glycaemic, and trace element parameters were assessed using standard biochemical methods. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS software; p < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results:
The mean age of participants was 55.5 ± 6.2 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.3:1. BMI was significantly higher in ART-HIV subjects (p < 0.0001), while blood pressure and age were comparable between groups. ART-HIV subjects exhibited lower total cholesterol and LDL but higher HDL compared with non-ART-HIV patients. Fasting blood sugar was significantly lower in the ART group (p < 0.001), though insulin levels showed no difference. Notably, serum zinc levels were markedly reduced in ART-HIV subjects (p < 0.0001), whereas copper, ceruloplasmin, and metallothionein were significantly elevated (p < 0.05). A positive correlation was observed between copper and ceruloplasmin, and a negative correlation between zinc and ceruloplasmin.
Conclusion:
HIV infection and ART significantly alter trace element balance and related biomarkers. ART appears beneficial in improving lipid and glycaemic profiles but is associated with zinc depletion and compensatory increases in copper, ceruloplasmin, and metallothionein.
Recommendations:
Routine monitoring of trace elements in HIV-infected patients is essential. Zinc supplementation and dietary counseling may mitigate long-term metabolic complications and improve immune resilience
Belonging and exclusion: Exploring the social and academic adjustment of LGBTQ+ students in South African higher institutions. A cross-sectional mixed method study.
Get PDFBackgroundLGBTQ+ students in South African higher education institutions often face multifaceted challenges related to their identity, which can influence both their academic success and social integration. Despite South Africa's progressive constitutional protections for sexual minorities, heteronormative attitudes and institutional cultures may perpetuate exclusionary practices. This study investigates how LGBTQ+ students navigate belonging and exclusion within university settings and the effects on their academic and social adjustment.
MethodsA convergent mixed-methods design was adopted. Quantitative data were collected via structured questionnaires from 320 self-identified LGBTQ+ students across three public universities in South Africa. Key variables included academic performance, peer interaction, institutional support, and perceived discrimination. Qualitative data were obtained through 20 in-depth semi-structured interviews, enabling exploration of lived experiences and coping strategies. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis, while qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis.
ResultsQuantitative findings revealed that 63% of respondents experienced moderate to high levels of exclusion, which negatively correlated with academic performance (r = -0.41, p < 0.01). Peer support and institutional inclusivity measures were significantly associated with a sense of belonging and academic engagement. Qualitative themes included: “Invisible Identities in Lecture Halls,” “Microaggressions and Campus Climate,” and “Creating Queer Safe Spaces.” Many participants reported self-censorship, isolation, and reliance on informal support networks to survive emotionally and academically.
ConclusionLGBTQ+ students in South African universities continue to face systemic and interpersonal challenges that hinder full inclusion and academic success. While some institutions have implemented diversity policies, the gap between policy and practice remains significant.
RecommendationHigher education institutions must strengthen LGBTQ+ visibility and inclusion through proactive policies, sensitization training for staff and students, and the creation of dedicated support structures such as LGBTQ+ resource centres. Further longitudinal research is recommended to assess the impact of inclusive policies on student outcomes over time
The Study of the anterior neck injury and its management in a tertiary care center, RIMS Ranchi.
Get PDFAnterior neck injuries represent a critical category of trauma requiring immediate attention due to the density of vital anatomical structures such as the airway, major blood vessels, and nerves. This study aims to evaluate the patterns, causes, clinical presentations, and management strategies of anterior neck injuries at RIMS Ranchi, a tertiary care center.
Over a two-year period, data from 75 patients were prospectively analyzed, focusing on demographics, type and cause of injury, treatment modalities, and outcomes. Blunt trauma was the most common cause of anterior neck injury, followed by penetrating and mixed injuries. Airway compromise and vascular damage were frequent complications. Prompt airway management, surgical exploration, and multidisciplinary approaches led to significantly improved outcomes. The study emphasizes the necessity of trauma protocols and skilled surgical intervention in optimizing patient recovery and minimizing mortality
Evaluation of teaching–learning methods and mentoring in pharmacology among second-year MBBS students: A cross-sectional study.
Get PDFBackground:
Pharmacology is a pivotal discipline in medical education, bridging the gap between basic sciences and clinical practice. As the subject continues to evolve with rapid drug development and therapeutic innovations, teaching methodologies must also adapt to ensure effective student learning. Several educational reforms have been proposed and implemented in recent years, yet understanding students’ perspectives remains crucial for identifying gaps and improving pedagogical strategies.
Objectives:
The present study aimed to assess undergraduate medical students’ perceptions of pharmacology and to obtain structured feedback on the effectiveness of current teaching and learning methods.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was carried out among 150 undergraduate medical students after obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. A prevalidated questionnaire covering various aspects of pharmacology teaching was administered to the participants following informed consent. Responses were systematically collected, compiled, and analyzed.
Results:
Out of 150 students approached, 129 completed the survey (response rate: 86%). The majority were females (64.3%), with an age range of 18–22 years (mean ± SD: 19.8 ± 0.9 years). Most respondents hailed from urban backgrounds (58%) and were hostel residents (62%). Central nervous system pharmacology was perceived as the most interesting topic (35.7%), followed by cardiovascular and autonomic pharmacology. Regarding teaching preferences, students favored case-based learning (34%) and blackboard teaching (29%), while audiovisual aids and didactic lectures were rated least engaging. A substantial proportion (90.4%) endorsed structured mentoring, preferably by senior faculty members.
Conclusion:
This study underscores the value of regularly obtaining student feedback to refine and implement effective teaching-learning strategies in pharmacology.
Recommendations:
Incorporating case-based discussions, interactive activities, digital tools, periodic quizzes, and structured faculty mentoring can significantly enhance pharmacology education and improve long-term knowledge retention
A cross-sectional study of fasting practices among paediatric elective surgery patients at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital.
Get PDFBackground:
All patients are required to fast preoperatively to avoid the risk of pulmonary complications and, in some cases, mortality. Several guidelines have been published worldwide to guide the fasting practices of paediatric patients. Although guidelines are in place, it is essential to study actual fasting practices to determine if they align with current recommendations.
Methods:
This was a cross-sectional study of fasting practices among elective pediatric patients over ten weeks at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH), South Africa. Data collected included paediatric elective surgical patients from various surgical specialities, prescribed fasting times for solids and clear fluids, actual fasting times for solids and clear fluids, fasting glucose levels, and timings of anaesthesia commencement and conclusion. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
The dataset included 100 paediatric patients scheduled for elective surgery at CHBAH. Patient ages ranged from infancy to 17 years. Median prescribed fasting times were 9.6 hours for solids and 9.0 clear fluids. However, median actual fasting times were 14.8 hours for solids and 13.7 hours for clear fluids, exceeding recommendations (p<0.001). Only 2.0% of patients complied with the guidelines for clear fluids; there was zero compliance for solids. Guidelines approximated breast milk and formula fasting times but showed wide variability. Eighteen per cent of patients were hypoglycaemic preoperatively.
Conclusion:
This study revealed widespread over-fasting among paediatric surgical patients at CHBAH, with actual fasting durations far exceeding prescribed times and international guidelines, particularly for clear fluids and solids. These findings indicate a systemic disconnect between prescription and practice, suggesting a need for institutional changes to align perioperative care with best practice standards.
Recommendations:
We recommend implementation of updated institutional fasting guidelines that align with international best practice (6:4:1 rule) and allow clear fluids one hour before induction of anaesthesia
Evaluation of voice disorders among school teachers: A cross-sectional hospital-based observational study.
Get PDFBackground:Teachers constitute one of the most voice-dependent professional groups, frequently exposed to vocal strain and suboptimal acoustic environments. Voice disorders among teachers not only affect occupational performance but also overall quality of life. Early identification and preventive measures are essential to mitigate long-term morbidity.
Objectives:
To evaluate the prevalence, clinical profile, and occupational determinants of voice disorders among school teachers attending the ENT department of a tertiary care hospital.
Methods:
A hospital-based observational study was conducted among 50 school teachers presenting with or without vocal complaints. Detailed demographic, occupational, and clinical data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Laryngoscopic examination was performed to confirm the diagnosis. The relationship between occupational factors and voice disorders was analyzed using the Chi-square test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results:
The mean age of participants was 38.4 ± 8.6 years, with a predominance of females (74%). Most teachers (62%) had teaching experience exceeding 10 years. Vocal symptoms were reported by 64% of participants, while 56% had confirmed voice disorders. The most common complaints included hoarseness (40%), vocal fatigue (32%), and throat dryness (28%). Laryngoscopy revealed vocal nodules (32.1%), vocal cord edema (21.4%), and chronic laryngitis (17.9%) as the leading findings. Significant associations were observed between voice disorders and teaching more than 5 hours per day (p = 0.002), lack of microphone use (p = 0.01), and noisy classroom environments (p = 0.03).
Conclusion:
Voice disorders are highly prevalent among school teachers, largely influenced by occupational load and adverse vocal hygiene practices. Regular screening, vocal health education, and ergonomic modifications in classrooms are essential for prevention and early intervention.
Recommendations:
Implement routine voice screening, promote vocal hygiene awareness, encourage microphone use, and ensure acoustically optimized classrooms to reduce vocal strain
In vitro experimental antimicrobial and phytochemical evaluation of unsukumbili (Hypericum aethiopicum) against MRSA in wound sepsis.
Get PDFBackground
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a leading cause of nosocomial infections, contributing to severe wound sepsis and high treatment failure rates due to multidrug resistance, resulting in a strain that the healthcare system faces as an uncontrollable, fatal pandemic with a high mortality rate. The increasing prevalence of MRSA necessitates alternative therapeutic strategies, including plant-derived antimicrobials.
Aim: This study evaluated the antimicrobial efficacy of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Hypericum aethiopicum (unsukumbili) against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), assessing its potential for wound infection management.
Methodology
An in vitro experimental design was employed, following standardized antimicrobial testing protocols. H. aethiopicum leaves were extracted using ethanol and water, and antimicrobial activity was assessed via disk diffusion, Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC), and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) assays.
Results
Ethanolic extracts exhibited superior antibacterial activity (mean inhibition zone: 26mm) compared to aqueous extracts (4 mm). No significant difference was observed between fresh and dried leaf extracts. The MIC for MRSA was achieved at a 1:8 dilution, demonstrating potent bactericidal effects.
Conclusion
aethiopicum ethanol extract shows promising activity against MRSA, suggesting its potential as an alternative treatment for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infected wounds.
Recommendation
Further studies are needed to isolate bioactive compounds and assess in vivo efficacy, identifying levels of the plant toxicity against human cells.
Assessment of prescription writing skills among undergraduate medical students: A cross-sectional study.
Get PDFBackground:
Accurate prescription writing is a vital clinical skill introduced during the second phase of the undergraduate medical curriculum, particularly within Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Although students receive formal instruction during this period, concerns persist regarding their ability to apply these skills effectively in practice, even at this early stage of training.
Objective:
To assess the prescription writing skills of second-year undergraduate medical students and identify common deficiencies in their performance.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among second-year MBBS students. Participants were given a clinical case scenario and instructed to write a complete prescription. Each prescription was evaluated for essential components, including patient details, drug name, dose, frequency, route of administration, and prescriber information.
Results:
Out of the total participants, 76% scored in the moderate range for overall prescription writing, while only 18% achieved high scores. Drug-related components were moderately addressed by 58% of students, but prescriber and additional components showed poorer performance. Specifically, 35% scored low in prescriber-related and 51% in additional components. These findings reveal gaps in completeness and adherence to prescription standards.
Conclusion:
Despite formal teaching in Pharmacology, second-year undergraduate medical students show considerable gaps in prescription-writing skills.
Recommendation:
These findings suggest a need for repeated practice sessions, formative assessments, and integration of clinical context to enhance competency and ensure safe prescribing habits early in medical education
Observational Study on the Prevalence of Thyroid Dysfunction in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome
No full textBackground: Metabolic syndrome is commonly linked with endocrine disturbances, including thyroid dysfunction, which may influence metabolic control and cardiovascular risk. Recognizing thyroid status in affected individuals can support timely intervention and improve clinical outcomes. This study assessed the prevalence and pattern of thyroid dysfunction among patients with metabolic syndrome.
Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 100 adults fulfilling the diagnostic criteria for metabolic syndrome. Thyroid function was evaluated using serum TSH, FT3 and FT4 levels. Thyroid status was classified as euthyroid, subclinical hypothyroidism, overt hypothyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism or overt hyperthyroidism. Clinical details, metabolic parameters and the number of metabolic syndrome components present were recorded. Data were analyzed and results were presented using descriptive statistics.
Results: Thyroid dysfunction was observed in 36% of the study population. The most common abnormality was subclinical hypothyroidism (22%), followed by overt hypothyroidism (8%). Hyperthyroid patterns were less frequent (subclinical hyperthyroidism 4%, overt hyperthyroidism 2%). Females showed a significantly higher prevalence of dysfunction (57.1%) compared to males (20.7%). The age group of 40–59 years demonstrated the highest proportion of thyroid abnormalities (40.4%). A rising trend of thyroid dysfunction was noted with increasing metabolic load: 25.5% in those with three metabolic components, 45.7% with four components and 60.0% with five components. These findings indicate a close association between metabolic burden and thyroid imbalance.
Conclusion: A considerable proportion of patients with metabolic syndrome exhibit thyroid dysfunction, especially subclinical hypothyroidism. Female sex, middle age and higher clustering of metabolic components were associated with increased risk. Early detection and appropriate management of thyroid abnormalities may contribute to better metabolic control and reduced long-term complications.
Recommendations: Routine screening of thyroid function should be considered in all patients with metabolic syndrome. Clinicians should maintain a proactive approach in counseling, early follow-up and lifestyle modification support to minimize disease progression