Faculty of Health Sciences

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http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11837/3420

The Faculty of Health Sciences collection in DSpace at the University of Fort Hare provides access to the scholarly and research outputs of staff and students. This collection includes theses and dissertations, research articles, conference papers, technical reports, and examination question papers. The Faculty is committed to advancing education, research, and practice in the fields of health sciences, public health, nursing, allied health professions, and community health. Its teaching and research address critical issues such as health promotion, disease prevention, healthcare delivery, and population health, with a strong emphasis on improving health outcomes in underserved and rural communities. By preserving and disseminating these resources, the collection supports teaching, learning, and research while contributing to evidence-based healthcare, policy development, and the overall wellbeing of society.

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A programme for promoting the uptake of organ donation among Xhosa Community in the Eastern Cape Province
(University of Fort Hare, 2024-11) Mtise, Tobeka; Seekoe, E.; Goon, D.T.
Currently, there exists a global shortage of viable organs that meet the high transplantation demands as treatment options. While there is an increasing need for organ transplantation, people are dying on a daily basis because they are not receiving the life-saving organs they require. Furthermore, while many South Africans rely on life-saving organ transplants, convincing rural black communities to donate organs is an arduous task because of their prevailing cultural beliefs. Considering the above, the overall aim of this study was to develop a programme promoting the uptake of organ donation among the Xhosa community in the Eastern Cape Province by empowering them with the necessary knowledge and understanding of organ donation. Moreover, it sought to promote community discussion of and participation in organ donation. The researcher anticipated that by equipping communities and individuals with truth-based facts, more people would be willing to become organ donors, thereby addressing the severe shortage thereof.
A retrospective analysis of drug-resistant tuberculosis trends and causal factors in the period between 2016 and 2020 in the Sarah Baartman District of the Eastern Cape province, South Africa.
(University of Fort Hare, 2025-03-12) Petrus, Salmoné Jordania; Maluleke, T.X.; Mashau, F.
Introduction Resistance to anti-tuberculosis (TB) medication is a challenge that TB control practitioners have seen increasing in recent years. Drug-resistant (DR) TB can be caused by many factors, among them non-adherence to medication, substandard medication, inadequate patient care and airborne transmission. The prevalence of DRTB was high, and there was a significant spike in the number of Rifampicin-resistant cases in the Sarah Baartman district. This study aimed to conduct a retrospective analysis of trends and causal factors to Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis in the Sarah Baartman district from 2016 to 2020 using EDR-web, the Drug-resistant Tuberculosis Register. Methods A retrospective, descriptive and quantitative study design was used. Data were collected from files of 100 TB adult patients’ records who had been treated and admitted at the Margery Parkes TB Hospital in Graaf-Reinet. A data extraction tool was used to collect data from the EDR-web register, which was later captured onto a Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet for further analysis. Results Almost two-thirds of the patients in the study were males (60%) and had an average age of 40.8 years. Of the 100 participants, 54% were infected with HIV, and they had a mean CD4 count of 226 with a 95% confidence interval of (161.8 290.2). Sixty-six percent had previously been treated for TB, and 59.1% had been cured. In relation to the current DR-TB diagnosis, 49% had RR-TB, 46% had MDR-TB, and 5% had preXDR. The time taken to initiate patients on treatment was around 15 days, and the treatment duration was an average of 10.8 months. The treatment used was consistent with the WHO guidelines. Most of the patients were on Pyrazinamide PZA (100%), High dose Isoniazid at 89%, Bedaquiline at 82%, Ethambutol at 79%, Clofazimine at 78%, and Levofloxacin at 74%. Thirteen per cent of the participants reported side effects due to the treatment. Concerning treatment outcome, a 60% treatment success rate was achieved and 19% of the participants died. Conclusion The prevalence of DR-TB was found to be high, and an alarming spike in the number of Rifampicin-resistant cases was observed. DR-TB and TB, in general, are more common in males and affect the economically active age group. People living with HIV are at a higher risk of contracting DR-TB because of their weakened immune systems. Treatment compliance will positively affect CD4 count and treatment outcomes. There is a high risk of developing DR-TB or Pre-XDR-TB, without having been previously exposed to TB or TB treatment. RR-TB is emerging fast and is more prevalent than MDR-TB. DR-TB has a high mortality rate when treatment is delayed. Community mobilisation and patient education aimed at improving health-seeking behaviour and basic household infection control mechanisms would be recommended as interventions to curb the spread of DR-TB.
A retrospective analysis of maternal death in the Nelson Mandela Academy Hospital in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa from 2013 to 2017
(University of Fort Hare, 2023-05) Majiki, Nosipho Sharon; Maluleke, T.X.
Background: Globally thousands of women die each year from preventable causes during pregnancy and childbirth. It is considered the key indicator of a country's progress in improving the health status of their communities these deaths of women could be prevented through the provision of the skilled birth attendance, emergency obstetric and neonatal care services and increase use of contraceptives. However, many poor countries cannot manage to provide these to pregnant women. It is unfortunate that the deaths of women in a family and community bring along many psychological and emotional factors in families and health services, because it leads to a long-term social and economic breakdown, both for the immediate family and the wider community. Furthermore, the cost of the maternal death to families, living children, and other dependents are widespread, affecting future generations and economic progress of the country. The study was conducted using patients’ records women classified as maternal deaths at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in the 2013 to 2017.The aim of the study was to conduct a descriptive retrospective review maternal death causes, trends and contributory factors of maternal death in Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in the year 2013 to 2017. Methodology: It was a retrospective analysis, quantitative and descriptive study where 202 maternal death patients whose age was between 18 and 45 years old and were admitted in NMAH. Two hundred patient’s files were reviewed and analysed over. Only record files of patient’s that were admitted and died in Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Umtata due to pregnancy related conditions. Data were collected over a period of twelve weeks and analysed using descriptive statistics. Results: The main primary causes of maternal deaths at NMAH were non-pregnancy-related, infections and avoidable factors that included lack of appropriately trained specialist and health personnel; delay in initiating care or delay of referrals; lack of blood products; managing patients at an inappropriate level of care; problem recognition; and sub-standard care in the referral hospitals. The patient related contributory factors were unbooked patients, delay in seeking help and patients’ refusal of medication or surgery or advice for religious reasons.
Anatomy and Movement: HUS 112, Degree Examinations May/June 2025
(University of Fort Hare, 2025-05) Mvula, S.; Zimu, P.
Attitudes, knowledge and behaviour of HIV positive pregnant women attending antenatal care in buffalo city metropolitan district east London towards prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT).
(University of Fort Hare, 2014) Skoti, Florence Nozakhe; Mayeye, B.; Yako, E.
Background: The National HIV and AIDS and STI strategic plan for South Africa, 2007-2011 aims to reduce the rate of mother to child transmission to less than 5% by 2011. On the World Aids day in 2009, the Honorable President Jacob Zuma announced the intervention to improve antiretroviral therapy (ARV), access to priority group’s in order to decrease the disease burden, to address maternal and child mortality, and to improve life expectancy (PMTCT Guidelines: 2010). According to the literature reviewed, accepting attitudes may indicate better knowledge and understanding of HIV and AIDS. Marking a change in South Africa’s history of HIV the South African Government launched a major HIV Counseling and Testing program campaign (HCT) in 2010. For the PMTCT program to work and be acceptable, it needs to be known by its clients. It helps the individual to know about their status so that they make important choices for self and others. Amongst the important choices, medications for opportunistic medications, ARV’S, behavior change, etc, are included (Project Literacy 2006:40). Aim and Objectives: The study assessed the knowledge that the pregnant women have towards the prevention of mother to-child transmission which includes HIV testing, antiretroviral prophylaxis during pregnancy, labour, and post natal and feeding options. Methods: A quantitative descriptive method was used for this study. The questionnaires developed by the researcher were used for data collection. The items on the questionnaire were divided into four (4) subsections. The questionnaire was administered to all positive pregnant women coming for follow up visit and those available at the time of data collection. Conclusion: In this study evaluation of the level of knowledge and attitude of positive pregnant women with regard to PMTCT in 5 Buffalo City Municipality clinics was conducted. It was found that some of positive pregnant women have better knowledge about PMTC though there were still those that need further education. Recommendations: The service providers, who are the professional nurses, should be provided with proper training on PMTCT program to improve their standard of service delivery and to capacitate them with knowledge and skills. Integration of HIV related health aspects during assessment and treatment of pregnant women should be strengthened, as the purpose of implementation of PMTCT was to reduce mortality rate by 50%, and also to reach the 4th Millennium Development Goal of reducing these deaths by two-thirds by 2015.
Aural Rehabilitation, ARH 211E, Degree Examination May/June 2025
(University of Fort Hare, 2025-05) Gqiba, P.D.; Kgare, K.
Biomechanics in Work and Physical Activity: HUS 328, Degree Examinations October/November 2025
(University of Fort Hare, 2025-10) De Bruyn, E.; Davidson, Mr.
Biomechanics in Work and Physical Activity: HUS 328, Supplementary Examinations November 2024
(University of Fort Hare, 2024-11) Xoxo, T.D.; Nqweniso, S.
Body composition, physiological risk factors and physical activity among adolescents at risk for noncommunicable diseases in the Eastern Cape, South Africa.
(University of Fort Hare, 2025) Mvula, Sisanda; Van Gent, M.; Van Niekerk, R.L.
Adolescence is a critical period of transition into adulthood, during which unhealthy behaviors are often initiated and can persist into later stages of life, contributing to the rising prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). In South Africa (SA), NCDs accounted for 51% of total deaths in 2016, with heart disease being a major contributor. The studies revealed that over 20% of adolescents were classified as overweight or obese, with a higher prevalence observed in females compared to males. A significant number of adolescents showed elevated blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol levels, indicating a concerning trend to ward cardiovascular risk among adolescents. Approximately only 50% of adolescents met the recommended guidelines for physical activity, with gender differences including 25% of boys and 16% of girls meeting the recommended physical activity levels. The Healthy Active Kids South Africa (HAKSA)Report Card has shown some improvement, upgrading the overall physical activity to a B-grade in 2022, with 60% to 73% of children meeting the recommended physical activity levels. This study investigated body composition, physiological risk factors, and physical activity among adolescents at risk for NCDs in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Body composition was assessed using skinfold measurements, BMI, and waist-to-hip ratio, while physiological measurements included random blood glucose, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Additionally, physical activity was measured indirectly using the International Physical Activity Questionnaires (IPAQ) long form. The statistical analyses were executed using SPSS (IBM, Version 27) package software. Data analysis involved various methods, including descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, chi-square analysis, logistic regression, and Pearson correlation. Adolescents presenting with one or more metabolic risk factors were classified as “at risk”, whereas those without any metabolic risk factor were classified as not at risk. Healthy and unhealthy body fat percentages were classified based on specific thresholds: <25% for boys and <30% for girls were considered healthy, while ≥25% for boys and ≥35% for girls were classified as unhealthy. The criteria for classifying adolescents into the unhealthy and healthy waist-to-hip ratios were based on the cut-off score, including 0.9 for males, which was considered healthy, and >0.9 was unhealthy. In contrast, 0.85 for females was considered healthy, and >0.85 was considered unhealthy. Among 257 participants, 131 (50.9%) were classified as at risk for NCDs, and those classified as at risk were categorized as overweight. The study also highlighted that both groups (at risk and not at risk) met the minimum WHO requirements of 300 minutes per week of physical activity. Additionally, the study revealed a higher proportion of females (74.0%) at risk for metabolic risk compared to males (26.0%). Of the boys showing higher levels of unhealthy body fat, 83% were classified within the at-risk group. Similarly, 100% of the girls displayed unhealthy fat and were in the at-risk group. The sum of 4 skinfolds (p = 0.000), with an odds ratio of 1.12, indicated that adolescents who presented with a high sum of 4 skinfolds were 1.12 times more likely to develop metabolic risk diseases. Total physical activity demonstrated an odds ratio of 0.99 (p=0.039), suggesting that adolescents were 0.99 times less likely to develop metabolic risk for each additional minute of physical activity. Most adolescents who participated in the study were from quintiles 1-3 (43% males and 58% females). A significant association (p=0.001) was identified between gender and physical activity levels, with 30.3% of males and 69.7 % of females not meeting the recommended physical activity levels. The analysis further revealed a significant association (p=0.000) between metabolic risk and sex, with a much larger proportion of females (74%) having metabolic risk than males (26%). A significant association (p=0.053) was identified among urban participants, where a greater percentage (61.0%) engaged in sufficient physical activity compared to those who did not (39.0%). Similarly, another significant association (p=0.053) was observed in rural areas, revealing that a higher proportion of participants (51.7%) did not meet the recommended levels of physical activity, while those who were active constituted 48.3%. The study observes the weak correlations between different body composition variables and physical activity among adolescents. A significant negative, weakm correlation was observed between the age and body fat percentage of the participants (r = -0.143, p = 0.024). A significant positive weak correlation was found between age and total physical activity (r = 0.180, p = 0.003), as well as with school-related physical activity (r = 0.155, p = 0.011) and housework-related physical activity (r = 0.198, p = 0.00. Body fat had a significant negative weak correlation with waist-to-hip ratio (r=-0.233, p=0.000) and transportrelated physical activity (r=-0.137, p=0.031). The sum of 4 skinfolds presented a significant negative, weak correlation with transport-related (r=-0.134, p=0.037). While body fat is a significant risk factor, physical activity is not the primary contributor to metabolic risk in this population. This study underscores the importance of implementing targeted public health initiatives that support active transportation, particularly among adolescents with higher body fat percentages. Implementing strategies that encourage healthy behaviors is crucial for reducing metabolic risks associated with NCDs in this population. The findings stress the need for community and school initiatives to promote active lifestyles and address differences in physical activity between urban and rural adolescents.
Challenges expierenced by teenage mothers with exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months in Walter Sisulu in Joe Gqabi District: Eastern Cape province, South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2022-06) Jongisa, Nothembelani; Mayeye, B.
Introduction Malnutrition in infancy may be prevented with a subsequent reduction in infant mortality rates if teenage mothers commit to exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) for the first six (6) months. Despite efforts by health professionals, EBF rates are low in this subdistrict. The assumptions by health professionals are that teenage mothers are “making excuses” and do not want to commit to exclusive breastfeeding. To the knowledge of the researcher, challenges experienced by the teenage mothers regarding exclusive breastfeeding in Walter Sisulu sub-district have never been investigated. Therefore, it was necessary to research the challenges experienced by teenage mothers (ages 16-19 years) regarding exclusive breastfeeding at Walter Sisulu sub-district. Purpose The purpose of the study is to explore the socio-cultural and economic challenges of exclusive breastfeeding among teenage mothers and describe the challenges experienced by teenage mothers with regard to exclusive breast-feeding practices at the Walter Sisulu sub-district of the Department of Health in Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methodology A qualitative study design and a phenomenological approach were used to explore lived experiences of teenage mothers concerning EBF. Data was collected from 11 local clinics and four hospitals. Face-to-face interviews were conducted following an unstructured interview process. Data collection took place in August 2021 for two weeks. Data was gathered from participants (teenage mothers aged between 16-19 years) using an interview guide and this was entirely dependent on participants' availability. Data was collected until saturation was reached after the eighth participant was interviewed, which occurred after visiting the following facilities: Block H, Maletswai, Masakhane, Hilton, Venterstad, Khayamnandi, and Mzamomhle. Results Participants mentioned breast problems such as painful breasts and sore nipples as posing risk on sustaining breastfeeding. These difficulties were influenced by a lack of knowledge on how to attach the baby to the breast, full breast, and sore nipples, and thus resulted in some mothers giving up on breastfeeding or offering breastmilk substitutes. In this study, teenage moms revealed that their moms and grandmothers advised them to use traditional medicines/herbs for their babies to fight shimnca and these traditional medicines help to relieve burning bums. Early introduction of water and infant formula was a common practice that impeded EBF. Conclusion The new Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) policies must be implemented to fill in the gaps in key health messages and community-oriented programmes should concentrate more on teenage mothers. These endeavours could inspire the participation of grandmothers and mothers in decision-making and how best they can support young mothers on infant feeding. These initiatives can maintain exclusive breastfeeding for optimum child survival. Breastfeeding support and advocacy to teenage mothers by health workers is needed before and after delivery and after being discharged from the hospital.
Challenges hindering the implementation of quality supervision in primary health care facilities in Oliver Reginald Tambo District, Eastern Cape Province.
(University of Fort Hare, 2018) Zamxaka, Nontlantla Caroline; Mupindu, W.
The study investigated the factors that prevent quality supervision in primary health care (PHC) facilities in Oliver Reginald Tambo (O.R. Tambo) district of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The motivation for this study was a concern regarding consistently poor performance by PHC facilities in the province despite regular supervisory visits. The objectives of the study were to explore practices of PHC supervisors in implementing supervision, and to assess perceptions, opinions, and attitudes of PHC supervisors and PHC operational managers with regards to PHC supervisory visits. On search methodology, qualitative approach was predominating whilst quantitative data was supplementing the study. A purposive sample of PHC supervisors and operational managers was drawn from PHC facilities which had a consistent, 100% rate of supervisory visits. The data was analysed thematically.
Challenges of intergrating mental health care users into the community after discharge from a psychiatric institution: The case of Fort Beaufort, Raymond Mhlaba sub-district, South Africa.
(University of Fort Hare, 2018) Tom, Yvonne Nomamerika; Goon, D.T.
The purpose of the study was to examine the factors contributing to the inability to integrate discharged mental health care users into the community of Fort Beaufort in the Raymond Mhlaba Sub-District. Mental illness is highly stigmatized and there is low public awareness on the intricacies of mental illness amongst the communities. Mentally ill people are destitute and struggle to find employment and the relations between the users and their families are tense. A phenomenological approach was used to capture the lived experiences of the study participants. An explorative, descriptive research design was used to explore the challenges encountered by mental health care users with regard to their integration into the community. A qualitative research approach was deemed most appropriate for fostering an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced by mental health care users and the meaning attached to such experiences in relation to the integration in the community. Data was collected using an unstructured interview guide. Interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim19 participants participated in the study.
Clinical Physiology in Work Environment: HUS 327, Degree Examinations October/November 2025
(University of Fort Hare, 2025-10) Nqweniso, S.; Kwong, D.
Clinical Physiology in Work Environment: HUS 327, Supplementary Examinations November 2024
(University of Fort Hare, 2024-11) Skeyi, S.; Muller, X.; Du Preez, N.
This document outlines the HUS 327 Clinical Physiology in Work Environment supplementary examination from November 2024 at the University of Fort Hare. The exam is designed for Bachelor of Health Science in Human Movement Science students, has a duration of 3 hours, and is worth 100 marks, divided into two sections. Section A assesses foundational knowledge through matching physiological terms with their definitions and true/false statements related to cardiovascular physiology and exercise. Section B focuses on applied clinical physiology, including case studies on cardiovascular disease risk factors and the effects of exercise on heart rate and blood distribution. It also addresses ergonomics and its impact on cardiovascular health, proposing intervention strategies. Finally, the exam includes a data analysis component requiring calculations of mean and standard deviation for blood pressure responses during exercise, graphical representation of this data, and a discussion on blood pressure patterns in relation to exercise types.
Delays of breast cancer diagnosis among women in St. Elizabeth Regional Hospital, Eastern Cape, South Africa
(University of Fort Hare, 2025-03-12) Mthinjwa, Mzameleni; Nkutu, N.; Mashau, F.
Introduction: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among females worldwide. Breast cancer has the highest incidence among all cancers and is the leading cause of cancer death for women worldwide. Noticeably there are women diagnosed with breast cancer at the late stages., and those women have a low survival rate. Delayed diagnosis from the time a breast abnormality is detected to the time of definitive diagnosis; either by the patient or by a healthcare provider may contribute to the negative outcomes, as well as expensive treatment options and higher recurrence rates. The same problem has been identified at St. Elizabeth Regional Hospital in Lusikisiki, in the Eastern Cape Province. The aim and objectives: To assess factors contributing to delays of breast cancer diagnosis among women at St. Elizabeth Regional Hospital, Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. To describe the strategies for the reduction of time to breast cancer diagnosis among women in St. Elizabeth Regional Hospital in Lusikisiki in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Methods: A qualitative approach was used for this study. The study used an explorative, descriptive and contextual design to identify the reasons for delay in breast cancer diagnosis, among women in St. Elizabeth Regional Hospital in Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. A non- probability purposive sampling technique was used. Ethical clearance was received from the University of Fort Hare Research Ethics Committee. Permission was then obtained from the Provincial Department of Health, and St. Elizabeth’s Regional Hospital to continue with the study. The researcher obtained necessary permission from all participants after they had been thoroughly informed about the purpose of the interview. The researcher obtained consent from the participants to tape record the interview for accurate data collection purpose and permission for data analysis. The data was collected from 11 women with confirmed breast cancer diagnosis seen at St. Elizabeth Regional Hospital in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape Province. A qualitative data was collected using a self-designed semi-structured interview guide by the researcher. Face-to face interview questions were administered by the researcher, probing was done until saturation was reached on 11 participants. Data analysis: The qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. To organize the data into themes that identify factors associated with delays in breast cancer diagnosis among women, the researcher utilized the eight steps of Tesch established in Creswell (2014). Results: The main factors contributing to delays of breast cancer diagnosis among women in St Elizabeth Hospital include financial difficulties, lack of knowledge, lack of presentation to the health facility for consultation, fear of breast cancer and surgery, unreasonable turnaround time for investigation results, lack of oncology skills, and lack of referral to other institution for further investigation and management. Conclusion: There should be oncology capacity building in regional hospitals receiving breast cancer patients from clinics and district hospitals, and continuous breast cancer awareness to reduce delays of breast cancer diagnosis.
Experiences of community psychiatric nurses and duardians psychiatric patients on the effectiveness of community mental health services of the Zomba District in Malawi.
(University of Fort Hare, 2011-12-13) Kachingwe, Bertha Maggie; Tshotsho, N.; Magadla, N.
Sturdy: Experiences of Community Psychiatric Nurses and Guardians of discharged psychiatric Patients on the Effectiveness of Community Mental Health Services of the Zomba District in Malawi. Purpose: The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of community psychiatric nurses and guardians of discharged psychiatric patients with regard to failure of Community Mental Health Services of the Zomba District, and make recommendations to improve community mental health services. Although such services exist, their effectiveness is unknown, either from the nurses' point of view or from the consumers' point of view. Method: A qualitative approach with phenomenological research design was used to answer the research question on the effectiveness of the services. This method was chosen because the researcher was committed to explore the lived in-depth experiences of the study participants. A purposive sampling method was used to select participants for the study, who were selected based on their knowledge of the phenomena. Data collection Instruments used were unstructured interviews, using face- to- face interaction. One broad, open-ended question was used to gather information from the participants. Data analysis was done using Atlas.ti software to help the researcher uncover complex phenomena hidden in the text.
Experiences of condom usage among female sex workers in Mangaung Metropolitan, South Africa.
(University of Fort Hare, 2023-05) Phetlho, Mpabi Agnes; Murray, D.
This study aimed to achieve two main objectives. Firstly, it aimed to investigate the experiences of female sex workers in actively using condoms to reduce HIV infection during their work. Secondly, it sought to identify the support systems available to increase female sex workers’ use of condoms particularly for those operating on the streets of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality. The issue at hand does not only affect individuals engaged in the sex industry but also impacts their families and clients. Furthermore, it influences South Africa in its entirety. Both female sex workers and their clients face a heightened risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The rising cases of newly reported HIV infections may be attributed to the inadequate utilisation of condoms among female sex workers. As a result, it is essential that those who are involved in the sex work to collectively shoulder the responsibility of ensuring consistent and effective condom usage, thus preventing the widespread prevalence of HIV infections, despite the ample distribution of condoms. Methodology The study adopted research qualitative, descriptive, explorative, and contextual design to explore experiences of female sex workers’ condom usage during sex work. Semi-structured individual interviews with fourteen participants were conducted and these interviews were recorded and later transcribed verbatim. In addition, it implemented a non-probability sampling method, which relied on effective snowball sampling techniques. This research occurred in Mangaung district, within the province of Free State in South Africa; more specifically, it focused on Bloemfontein, the province’s capital, which is currently known as Mangaung. The study encompassed primary healthcare facilities and community health centres close to participants for their convenience. These settings were approved via the Free State Department of Health (FSDOH) authority . Based on the study’s aim and relevant research questions, data were collected and analysed to identify various themes and sub-themes using Tesch’s method. Furthermore, it adhered diligently to ethical principles to ensure its findings were trustworthy. Findings Female sex workers in Mangaung Metropolitan, South Africa, reported positive experiences related to condom usage when they negotiated condom use with their clients. In this regard, some reported adverse experiences with clients, including violence, verbal abuse, and physical abuse. As a result, several participants had become reluctant to use condoms and had subsequently contracted HIV infection and STIs. Participants also highlighted the challenges associated with health professionals, such as harassment at healthcare facilities and victimisation by law enforcement officers. Respondents also reported on the availability of support systems from NGOs, churches, and doctors. Some respondents reported that sex work was their only means of survival amid high unemployment. All participants made suggestions for support systems to address sex workers' needs. Conclusion Sex work has become the only employment option for most participants. Therefore, the government and other stakeholders must collaborate to create employment and to continuously bring awareness of condom use to curb the spreading of HIV and other Sexually transmitted infections.
Experiences of critical care unit nurses concerning the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment
(University of Fort Hare, 2015) Kupa-Mesa Nororia, Peliswa Prudence; Vellem, N.M.
The purpose of the study was to identify, describe and explore the experiences of nurses in a critical care unit (CCU) on the withdrawal of life -sustaining treatment to patients in Buffalo City Metropolitan, South Africa. A qualitative study was conducted in the critical care units from two institutions in the Eastern Cape. A non-probability purposively sampled seven critical care unit nurses was used. Ethics in the study were considered and the pilot study done in one participant which was not part of the study. Few highlights in the interview guide were noted and taken care of. Unstructured in-depth interviews were used as an instrument for data collection. Five main themes emerged from data analysis: • Decision making by doctors concerning withdrawal of treatment from a critically ill patient in a CCU; • Doctor-nurse relationship regarding withdrawal of treatment from to critical ill patients in CCU; • Nurses’ experiences regarding the process of withdrawal of lifesupport treatment from a critically ill patient in CCU; • Nurses’ responsibilities as health professionals towards the patients regarding their profession; and • Coping strategies regarding the withdrawal of life- support treatment from a critically ill patient. Recommendations were put forward to try and reduce the moral distress suffered by nurses in CCUs.
Experiences of critical care unit nurses concerning the withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment
(2015) Kupa-Mesa, Phelisa Prudence
in the Eastern Cape. A non-probability purposively sampled seven critical care unit nurses was used. Ethics in the study were considered and the pilot study done in one participant which was not part of the study. Few highlights in the interview guide were noted and taken care of. Unstructured in-depth interviews were used as an instrument for data collection. Five main themes emerged from data analysis: • Decision making by doctors concerning withdrawal of treatment from a critically ill patient in a CCU; • Doctor-nurse relationship regarding withdrawal of treatment from to critical ill patients in CCU; • Nurses’ experiences regarding the process of withdrawal of lifesupport treatment from a critically ill patient in CCU; • Nurses’ responsibilities as health professionals towards the patients regarding their profession; and • Coping strategies regarding the withdrawal of life- support treatment from a critically ill patient. Recommendations were put forward to try and reduce the moral distress suffered by nurses in CCUs.
Experiences of emergency care technicians with regards to inter-facility transfers of critical patients in Mangaung Metro, Free State
(University of Fort Hare, 2023-06) Mohoto, Nokwanda Teddy-Bear; Nkuthu, N.T.
Background: Over the years, the increase in the number of inter-facility transfers of critically ill or injured patients has placed a burden on the healthcare system. Critically ill or injured patients are transferred to higher level facilities/hospitals so that they can receive specialist care. The inter-facility transfers require a multi-disciplinary healthcare system which includes the referring physician/nurses, emergency medical services and the receiving physician/nurses. The nature of these critical transfers has placed great emphasis on the high quality treatment and management required from emergency services. This has pushed emergency services to introducing new qualifications with better capabilities of treating and managing critically ill or injured patients. In Mangaung Metro, Free State, EMS personnel with the required capabilities have not been employed within operations post 2011. This has left personnel (ECT) with lower qualifications and capabilities employed within operations to be the ones undertaking inter-facility transfers of critically patients. The purpose of the study was to explore the current operational ECT’s experiences on inter-facility transfers of critically ill or injured patients. Objectives were to explore the ECT’s experiences on inter-facility transfers of critical patients in Mangaung; to describe the challenges encountered by ECTs concerning inter-facility transfers of the critical patients in Mangaung and to describe the strategies that can be implemented to improve the experiences of ECTs during inter-facility transfer of critically ill patients. Methods: A qualitative approach with a exploratory design was used throughout the research to explore the ECT’s experiences with regards to inter-facility transfers of critically ill or injured patients. Interviews were held with 9 consenting ECT’s under strict COVID-19 protocols. The ECT’s/participants were coded. An interview guide was used to explore the ECT’s experiences, challenges and strategies to enhance outcomes. A tape recorder was used to record the interviews. The interviews were then transcribed verbatim and sent to a co-coder for verification and analysis. Results: Four themes emerged: 1) Experiences of ECT’s conducting inter-facility transfers of critical patients, 2) lack of knowledge regarding inter-facility transfers of critical patients, 3) challenges experienced by ECT’s regarding inter-facility tranfers of xii critical patients and 4) strategies required to enhance safe inter-facility transfer of critical patients. Majority of the participants expressed negative experiences with regards to interfacilility transfers. These negative experiences were due to a lack of proper equipment to undertake critical tranfers, poor management, lack of capabilies or limited scope of practice, poor pre-hospital and in-hospital relationships and communication, amongst other things. The study revealed that critical patients required highly qualified EMS personnel with a broader scope of practice and capabilities to undertake inter-facility transfers of critical patients. Conclusion: ECT’s revealed how overwhelmed they felt undertaking inter-facility transfers of critical patients and expressed the need for more highly qualified personnel to be employed operationally. More focus should also be put on training/refreshing the ECT’s to current protocols. Communication between the multidisciplinary system needs to be improved. The Department of Health needs to procure more and better equipment for ECT’s to be able to perform their duties as well as invest in proper managerial strategies.

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