Student's Journal of Health Research Africa
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Policy Gaps in Postgraduate Supervision: An Evaluation of University Guidelines and Enforcement Using a Single Case Study Design
Full text linkBackground:Postgraduate supervision plays a critical role in shaping research quality and academic success. However, many universities experience a disconnect between formal supervision policies and their implementation, leading to inconsistent student experiences and supervision outcomes. At the selected university, concerns have emerged regarding unclear supervisory responsibilities, lack of student recourse mechanisms, and inconsistent enforcement of guidelines. This study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of the university’s postgraduate supervision policies and identify key gaps in their enforcement.
Methods:A qualitative single case study design was adopted, focusing on one South African university. Data was collected through document analysis of existing supervision policies and semi-structured interviews with academic supervisors (n=10), postgraduate students (n=12), and faculty postgraduate coordinators (n=3). Thematic analysis was used to explore the clarity, accessibility, and enforcement of policy documents, as well as stakeholder perceptions of institutional support structures.
Results:The study revealed that although formal supervision policies exist, their enforcement is inconsistent across faculties. Many supervisors lacked awareness or formal training on policy provisions, and students reported dissatisfaction with the clarity of supervision expectations and lack of support when conflicts arise. While some departments showed good practices, the absence of a centralized enforcement and monitoring mechanism weakened overall policy effectiveness.
Conclusion:The findings point to a significant policy-practice gap in postgraduate supervision at the institution. The lack of formal enforcement structures and inadequate communication of policy roles contribute to inequitable supervision experiences.
Recommendations:The university should consider enhancing the visibility and accessibility of supervision policies, mandating training for all postgraduate supervisors, and establishing a monitoring unit within the postgraduate office. Introducing clear complaint and appeal processes and periodically reviewing policies with stakeholder input could improve accountability and consistency in postgraduate supervision
CONSEQUENCES OF FETAL GROWTH RESTRICTION DUE TO MATERNAL HIGH-RISK FACTORS ON NEONATAL OUTCOME WITH 1-YEAR FOLLOW-UP IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL: A COHORT STUDY.
Full text linkBackground
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a significant perinatal concern associated with increased neonatal morbidity and long-term pediatric complications. Maternal high-risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, malnutrition, and infections are known contributors to FGR.
Objectives
- To clarify the relationship between maternal high-risk variables and the pediatric effects of FGR.
- To evaluate the pediatric outcome after 1-year follow-up.
Methods
A prospective observational study was conducted at IGIMS, Patna, over 1.5 years involving 92 FGR neonates. Maternal risk factors and neonatal outcomes were recorded, with follow-up assessments up to 12 months to evaluate growth and development.
Results
A total of 92 neonates with fetal growth restriction (FGR) born to high-risk mothers were enrolled. The mean maternal age was 28.4 ± 4.7 years; 48.9% were primiparous. Hypertensive disorders (52.2%) and diabetes mellitus (19.6%) were the most common maternal risk factors. Neonatal outcomes included hypoglycemia (37.0%), respiratory distress (31.5%), and NICU admission (55.4%). Significant correlations were found between maternal hypertension and NICU admission (p=0.003), and between diabetes and neonatal hypoglycemia (p=0.001). At 12-month follow-up, 29.3% had delayed developmental milestones, and 33.7% showed persistent growth impairment, indicating a strong association between maternal risks and adverse pediatric outcomes.
Conclusion
Maternal high-risk conditions significantly affect both immediate and long-term outcomes in FGR neonates. Early antenatal intervention and structured pediatric follow-up are essential to improve prognosis
Comparative outcomes of surgical fixation versus conservative management in clavicle fractures: A prospective cohort study.
Full text linkBackgroundThis study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of conservative versus surgical intervention in patients with clavicle fractures.
MethodsA prospective study was conducted on 50 patients with clavicle fractures, allocated into two groups: 25 patients managed conservatively (arm sling) and 25 undergoing surgical fixation (open reduction and internal fixation with plates). Baseline characteristics, fracture union time, functional outcomes (Constant-Murley Shoulder Score), pain levels (Visual Analog Scale), complications, and return to work/activity time were recorded. Statistical analyses included chi-square tests for categorical variables and t-tests for continuous variables, with p < 0.05 considered significant.
ResultsBaseline demographics were comparable between groups (p > 0.05). The surgical group achieved significantly faster fracture union (9.2 ± 1.5 weeks) compared to the conservative group (13.5 ± 2.1 weeks, p < 0.001). Functional outcomes favored the surgical group (88.6 ± 6.2) over the conservative group (79.3 ± 7.8, p = 0.002). Nonunion and malunion were more frequent in the conservative group (p = 0.04 and p = 0.03, respectively), while superficial wound infections occurred in 8% of surgical cases. Pain scores were significantly lower in the surgical group (1.3 ± 0.9) versus the conservative group (2.8 ± 1.2, p = 0.001). Return to work was earlier in the surgical group (10.5 ± 2.3 weeks) than in the conservative group (15.7 ± 3.1 weeks, p < 0.001).
ConclusionSurgical intervention in clavicle fractures provides superior union time, functional outcomes, lower pain scores, and quicker return to activity compared to conservative management, with an acceptable complication profile.
RecommendationsSurgical fixation should be preferred for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures in active individuals to ensure faster recovery and better function. Conservative treatment remains suitable for minimally displaced fractures or patients with lower functional demands. Larger studies with longer follow-up are encouraged
A cross-sectional ecological study of the impact of sand mining on biodiversity in the Umdloti River, KwaZulu-Natal – A qualitative study.
Full text linkBackgroundSand mining is an escalating threat to riverine ecosystems, especially in developing regions where construction demands are high. In KwaZulu-Natal, the Umdloti River has seen a surge in sand mining, raising concerns about its impact on biodiversity and habitat integrity. This study investigates the ecological effects of sand mining along the Umdloti River, focusing on macroinvertebrate diversity, vegetation cover, and habitat condition.
MethodsA cross-sectional ecological assessment was conducted in April 2024 across three zones: an active sand mining site, an upstream control site, and a downstream recovery site. Macroinvertebrates were sampled using the South African Scoring System (SASS5), while aquatic and riparian vegetation was surveyed using species richness transects. Habitat condition was evaluated based on channel morphology, substrate type, bank stability, and turbidity. Comparative analysis employed descriptive statistics and ANOVA.
ResultsMacroinvertebrate diversity and SASS5 scores were significantly lower in the mining zone, with sensitive taxa absent and pollution-tolerant species dominating. Vegetation cover was reduced, with indigenous species displaced by invasive colonizers. Habitat assessments indicated degraded conditions, including unstable banks, altered channel structure, and elevated turbidity. The control zone exhibited greater biodiversity and intact habitats, while the downstream zone showed signs of partial recovery but remained impacted.
ConclusionSand mining along the Umdloti River has led to measurable biodiversity loss and ecological degradation, disrupting both aquatic and riparian systems.
RecommendationsImmediate regulatory interventions are needed, including buffer zone enforcement, rehabilitation of mined areas, and stricter permitting controls. Long-term ecological monitoring should be implemented to assess recovery trends. Engaging local communities and stakeholders in sustainable alternatives to unregulated sand extraction is critical to safeguarding the river’s ecological integrity
An analytical cross-sectional study of risk factors associated with postoperative leaks and mortality in cases of gastrointestinal perforation.
Full text linkBackground
Gastrointestinal (GI) perforation is a life-threatening surgical emergency that often results in severe peritonitis, sepsis, and multi-organ failure. Despite advancements in surgical techniques and perioperative care, postoperative anastomotic leaks and associated mortality remain significant concerns. This study aimed to evaluate the risk factors influencing postoperative leakage and mortality in patients undergoing surgery for GI perforations at a tertiary care center.
Methods
An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, RIMS, Ranchi, over 18 months. A total of 89 adult patients presenting with non-traumatic GI perforation involving the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, or ileum were included. Patients with esophageal, colonic, iatrogenic, traumatic, or malignant perforations were excluded. “Clinical, demographic, biochemical, and surgical data were collected and analyzed using statistical methods to identify associations with postoperative leaks and 30-day mortality.
Results
The incidence of postoperative leaks was 19.1%, with a mortality rate of 20.2%. Statistically significant risk factors for postoperative leaks included advanced age (p=0.013), delayed presentation (p=0.001), pre-existing acute kidney injury (p=0.013), gastric site of perforation (p=0.031), and the type of surgery performed (p=0.047). Biochemical predictors such as elevated CRP and WBC counts and low serum albumin levels were strongly associated with leak occurrence (p<0.001). Postoperative leaks were significantly correlated with higher mortality (82.35% vs. 5.56%, p<0.001).
Conclusion
Postoperative anastomotic leak significantly increases the risk of mortality in patients with GI perforation. Early diagnosis, risk stratification using clinical and biochemical markers, and appropriate surgical planning are essential to improve outcomes.
Recommendation
Early identification of high-risk patients and timely surgical intervention, along with preventive strategies like protective stoma and improved perioperative care, are recommended to reduce postoperative leaks and mortality
Availability of teaching materials and teachers’ preparedness in the implementation of the lower secondary curriculum in government-aided schools in Mbarara city, South. A descriptive survey study.
Full text linkBackground
The successful implementation of the Lower Secondary Curriculum in government-aided schools depends heavily on the availability and effective use of relevant teaching and learning materials. The study aimed at investigating the availability and accessibility of teaching materials in the preparedness of the teachers in the implementation of the Lower Secondary Curriculum in Government Aided schools in Mbarara City South, Uganda.
Methodology
This study employed a descriptive survey research design, targeting participants including city inspectors of schools, teachers, headteachers, and directors of studies, with a sample size of 199. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides, analyzed using SPSS for descriptive statistics, and presented thematically.
Results
199 respondents participated in this study, among teachers, 65 (53.7%) were male, while 56 (46.3%) were female, majority of headteachers (n = 4, 66.7%) and directors of studies (n = 4, 66.7%) were male, with only 2 females (33.3%) in each of these roles. The findings reported the availability of teaching materials in implementing the Lower Secondary Curriculum in government-aided schools in Mbarara City South (mean score = 3.90), majority of respondents agreed with the statement that teaching materials are sufficient for every learner, where 44 (36.4%) strongly agreed, 43 (35.5%) agreed, and 3 (2.5%) did not give a response. More than half of the respondents, 62 (51.2%), agreed that the computer laboratory was well equipped, while 27 (22.3%) strongly agreed. However, 19 (15.7%) remained undecided, and only 13 (10.8%) disagreed. Qualitative insights reported the need for increased government funding, retooling of teachers, and infrastructural improvements.
Conclusion
The systemic challenges, such as inadequate resources and overcrowding, affect curriculum implementation.
Recommendation
Stakeholders should prioritize the provision of adequate teaching materials to support effective curriculum adoption and improve education quality
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH MALARIA PREVALENCE AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AT LIRA UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL, LIRA CITY. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Full text linkBackground
Malaria is a leading cause of death and disease in many developing countries. Lira district remains an endemic area for malaria in Uganda, greatly impacting the lives of many. The study investigated the factors associated with Malaria prevalence among Lira University students at Lira University Teaching Hospital, Lira City.
Methodology
A cross-sectional mixed methods study was conducted among 340 participants between March and April 2023. Participants were sampled by convenience sampling and data was collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data was entered and analyzed in SPSS version 26 at univariate, bivariate, and multivariate levels. Binary logistic regression both at bivariate and multivariate analysis was done. Qualitative data was collected from 16 purposively sampled participants using an in-depth interview guide and was analyzed manually through thematic content analysis.
Results
A total of 340 participants were recruited, achieving a 100% response rate. The majority 248(76.5%) of the participants were aged 18-24. Half, 165(50.9%) were males, most, 263(81.2%) were single, and 208(64.2%) were unemployed. About a third, 119(36.7%) and 121(37.3%) were Anglicans and were from the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery respectively. The prevalence of malaria among the students was 13.3% (95% CI=9.6 - 16.99). The factors associated with the malaria prevalence were; staying around bushy areas (AOR: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.05-3.92) and use of mosquito repellants (AOR: 2.09; 95% CI: 1.09-4.04). Qualitatively, most participants reported bushy environments and stagnant water to be contributing to the high prevalence.
Conclusion
The prevalence of malaria among students was 13.3%. The study starkly illustrates that mosquito repellents provide little to no protection against malaria, whereas lingering near overgrown, bushy areas significantly heightens the risk of contracting the disease.
Recommendation
There is a need for a wide-ranging and coordinated approach to malaria prevention and control, encompassing environmental management and personal protective measures
KNOWLEDGE OF HEALTH WORKERS TOWARDS UTILIZATION OF ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORDS SYSTEM AT HENROB HOSPITAL ZANA IN WAKISO DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Full text linkBackground.
Electronic medical records systems have transformed healthcare delivery, enhanced patient care, and streamlined clinical workflow. However, effective utilization of the electronic medical records systems remains challenging due to issues, data security concerns, and user satisfaction. This study assessed the knowledge of health workers towards the utilization of the electronic medical records system at Henrob Hospital Zana in the Wakiso district.
Methodology.
A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was used with 68 respondents selected through convenient sampling. Data was collected using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire, and data was manually tallied using Microsoft Excel, generating frequency tables, graphs, and pie charts.
Results
(54.4%) of the study participants, the majority of the participants were certificate holders (42.6%). 54.4% reported that they knew what EMR stood for, 60.2% reported that they knew the primary purpose of EMR, and 75% reported that they didn’t know the difference between EMR and EHR.
Conclusion.
The majority of the participants had a fair Knowledge of Electronic Medical Records and their benefits.
Recommendations.
Ministry of Health and other responsible stakeholders, including the health workers at Henrob Hospital Zana, should strive hard to educate all health workers about the use of the Electronic Medical records system
A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON INDIVIDUAL FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SELF-MEDICATION AMONG ADULTS AGED 18 TO 50 YEARS ATTENDING HENROB HOSPITAL ZANA.
No full textBackground.
Self-medication is becoming increasingly common among adults in Uganda. Despite its potential risks at the individual and community level, not enough studies have been done in Uganda on self-medication. This study examined individual factors associated with self-medication among adults aged 18 to 50 years attending Henrob Hospital Zana.
Methodology.
A cross-sectional study was conducted targeting adults attending Henrob Hospital. A total of 40 respondents were systematically selected and interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The outcome variable was the medication with or without a prescription from a doctor / medical worker. The information was manually tallied, and scientific measures were used to analyze the recorded information. Thereafter, Microsoft Word and Excel programs were employed, followed by presentation in the form of frequency tables, graphs, and figures like pie charts and bar graphs.
Results.
The majority of respondents were males 21(52.5%),24 (60%) were in the age group of 45-50 years, 26 (65 %) of the participants replied Yes to having used any drug for self-treatment, 16 (40%) reported being busy with daily programs, respondents who reported buying medicine without a prescription from the doctor majority were Christians 21(52.5), 22 (55%) of the respondents knew the dosage of drugs by enquiring from the seller and 26 (65%) of the respondents obtained their drugs from a community pharmacy.
Conclusion.
Self-medication in adults is associated with age, level of education, accessibility to pharmacies, occupation, and marital status.
Recommendations.
Ministry of Health and other responsible bodies, including the health workers, should strive to increase the knowledge of patients about the importance of reporting and obtaining medical consultation
RECURRENT BULLOUS ERYTHEMA MULTIFORME SECONDARY TO HERPES SIMPLEX INFECTION IN AN 18-YEAR-OLD MALE: A CASE STUDY.: BULLOUS ERYTHEMA MULTIFORME
No full textIntroduction
Erythema multiforme (EM) is an acute, immune-mediated mucocutaneous disorder characterized by characteristic targetoid lesions. The bullous subtype is rare and often triggered by infections such as herpes simplex Virus (HSV). Recurrent EM is strongly associated with HSV reactivation.
Case Presentation
We report an 18-year-old HIV-seronegative male with recurrent bullous erythema multiforme secondary to oral HSV infection. The patient had a two-year history of recurrent blistering episodes occurring every 2-3 months. Laboratory findings confirmed high HSV-1 IgG titers. Histological examination supported the diagnosis of bullous erythema multiforme. The patient was treated successfully with oral acyclovir suppression therapy, leading to a complete resolution of symptoms with no recurrences for six months.
Conclusion
This case highlights the importance of recognizing HSV as a potential trigger for recurrent bullous erythema multiforme and the effectiveness of antiviral suppression therapy in preventing recurrences.
Recommendation
Early identification of recurrent HSV-associated erythema multiforme is crucial for timely intervention. Long-term suppressive antiviral therapy should be considered in patients with frequent recurrences