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Open Access
Factors that Contribute to Poor Documentation of Nursing Care in Surgical Units of Lilongwe Central Hospital, Malawi
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 200-04-14) Phiri, Maggie Judith Mwangala
The researcher's experience through working in different hospitals of Malawi, showed that nurses do not like to document their interventions or nursing care done on the patient. This descriptive quantitative study was designed to discern the factors that contributed to poor documentation of nursing care in surgical units of Lilongwe Central Hospital, Malawi. The study focused mainly on documentation and the nursing process. Literature revealed that this area of nursing practice was not researched on extensively in Malawi and other countries. In the study, Fischbach's model of documentation was used, comprised of three major concepts, namely, Communication skills, Nursing process skills and Documentation standard skills. A convenience sample of twenty Enrolled and Ten State Registered Nurse midwives from ward IA, 4A, 4B and Children's ward was utilised. This was done to meet the proposed sample size. A pilot study was conducted to ensure validity and reliability of the structured questionnaire and checklist developed by the researcher. The main study was conducted from 6th to 18th December 1999. The subjects were requested to answer and fill the structured questionnaire with open and close-ended questions after gaining their consent Furthermore, a checklist was used to find more on the documentation practices in the files of January and February 1999. Data analysis was done manually and using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences to validate the findings. Open-ended questions were analysed by content analysis by Waltz et al (1991) and then categorised in themes to gain insight of the meaning of the findings. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the findings. Results are presented in frequency tables, descriptions, percentages and ratios. The results revealed that some nurses documented their nursing interventions effectively. The majority did not because of shortage of staff and stationery. This report is written to disseminate the findings of the study.
Open Access
Perceptions of registered nurses at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital towards the baccalaureate program at Kamuzu College of Nursing.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2000-04-10) Kuphanga, Milika Tiyamika
This qualitative study is aimed at describing the perception of the registered nurses at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital towards the Baccalaureate Program at Kamuzu College of nursing a constituent college of the University of Malawi. The Baccalaureate program has been in operation since 1995. Lewin's force-field model (1951) has been used to guide this study. This model specifically explains the change process where there are usually opposing driving and restraining forces when change is to occur. The model further explains the need for these opposing forces to form a new equilibrium for the change to become feasible. A sample of five female registered nurses is used in this study Data collection was done using question guide during interviews with the selected participants. Audiotapes and field notes were also used during the data collection to make sure that participants' exact explanations of the phenomena were grasped well. Content analysis described by Streubert (1991) was used to analyse the data collected by the researcher. Common perceptions of the participants were noted from the collected data and themes were derived from these perceptions. The themes which emerged included, good development, welcome change. improved quality of care, well polished program, paper nurse program, professional improvement and need for continuation. The results of the study perceive the baccalaureate degree program mainly as strength that will lead to nursing profession improvement.
Open Access
Perceptions of registered nurses at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital towards the bachelor of science programme at Kamuzu College of Nursing.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2000-04-14) Ngwira, Thom George
This qualitative descriptive study was conducted at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre. The purpose of the study was to elicit Registered Nurses' perceptions of the Baccalaureate program at Kamuzu College of Nursing A purposive sample of 6 RNs who were K.C.N graduates was used. A question prompts and guide was used to guide the interviewer and interviewee within the context of the research topic. Data was analysed manually using Streubert, 1991 approach. Common themes emerged and similar statements were grouped together to form a pattern of similar responses from the respondents. The theoretical framework that guided this study was Lewin's Force-Field theory, which provides a social psychological view of the change process. The findings of this study may provide a foundation for policy makers, University and hospital administrators in planning and developing strategies in promotion of the nursing profession. This study might be a basis for further research on a larger scale.
Open Access
Availability and usage of occupational health services in Kanengo industrial area.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2000-04-30) Matale, Edna
A descriptive study on availability and usage of occupational health services was done in Kanengo industrial area in the city of Lilongwe in order to establish the availability and usage of these services in this industrial area. The study involved a sample of 10 companies, which were selected through systematic random sampling. Data was collected using a questionnaire in an interview schedule. The data was later shared among 11 researchers who did the data collection and was then analysed using descriptive statistics and description of facts. The study results indicated that most occupational health services are available in Kanengo industries and generally used by workers. The results further revealed that noise from machines, fatigue and lifting are the major hazards in Kanengo while malaria is the common illness. It can therefore be concluded that Kanengo industries have most of the occupational health services, which are used by most workers.
Open Access
Perceptions of men towards contraceptive use by their spouses.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2000-04-30) Сhipeta, Мetty С.
This is a descriptive study carried out in order to explore the perceptions of men on contraceptive use by their spouses. The study specifically sought to explore the role of men in family planning, to determine the extent to which men accept contraceptive use by their spouses, to determine benefits of contraceptive use, the barriers to contraceptive use amongst married men and their spouses, and to determine sources of information on contraceptives. Results have shown that men accept contraceptive use by their spouses on condition that they themselves should make that decision. However, they support their spouses on contraceptive use. Data has further shown that very few men indulge themselves in practical roles. The findings further reveal that several variables affect the perceptions of men towards contraceptive use by their spouses. These are as follows: Educational level of the couple, age, culture, religion, economic constraints and frequency of pregnancies.
Open Access
A study on problems of nurses retention at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-03-29) kasenda, Cecilia
Nurses retention is a vital component of nursing practice. For better patient care there is need to strengthen staff retention. Literature and experience has shown that poor nurses retention affects patient care. This qualitative study investigated into the nurses retention at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (Q.E.C.H.). A selected sample size of ten nurses was used. Six out of the mentioned number was chosen from different wards at Q.E.C.H. Two of the nurses were Registered nurses while the others were Enrolled nurses all from one hospital. Two other different hospitals within Blantyre city were used. These were Mwai and Blantyre Adventist Hospitals. The study looked at questions like: "What is the problem with nurses retention at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital? Roy's adaptation theory was used. Nurses who left for other places were followed and interviewed in order to get a wide view of problems concerned with nurses retention at Q.E.C.H. The criteria for choosing was based on the fact of accommodating nurses who once worked at Q.E.C.H. In depth interviews were used to collect data. An interview schedule guided the interview process, and probes were used accordingly. To ensure validity and reliability of the instrument, a pilot study was done using four participants not included in the main study. All interviews were audio taped to provide a rich and permanent source of data. All interviews were transcribed using the interpretative paradigm. Streubert's content analysis method was utilized for the qualitative data. The results have revealed certain important issues that if implemented would improve staff turnover. Basing on the findings, recommendations have been made.
Open Access
A study on problems of nurses retention at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-03-29)
Nurses retention is a vital component of nursing practice. For better patient care there is need to strengthen staff retention. Literature and experience has shown that poor nurses retention affects patient care. This qualitative study investigated into the nurses retention at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (Q.E.C.H.). A selected sample size of ten nurses was used. Six out of the mentioned number was chosen from different wards at Q.E.C.H. Two of the nurses were Registered nurses while the others were Enrolled nurses all from one hospital. Two other different hospitals within Blantyre city were used. These were Mwai and Blantyre Adventist Hospitals. The study looked at questions like: "What is the problem with nurses retention at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital? Roy's adaptation theory was used. Nurses who left for other places were followed and interviewed in order to get a wide view of problems concerned with nurses retention at Q.E.C.H. The criteria for choosing was based on the fact of accommodating nurses who once worked at Q.E.C.H. In depth interviews were used to collect data. An interview schedule guided the interview process, and probes were used accordingly. To ensure validity and reliability of the instrument, a pilot study was done using four participants not included in the main study. All interviews were audio taped to provide a rich and permanent source of data. All interviews were transcribed using the interpretative paradigm. Streubert's content analysis 1method was utilized for the qualitative data. The results have revealed certain important issues that if implemented would improve staff turnover. Basing on the findings, recommendations have been made.
Open Access
Psychosocial experiences of people living with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus who attend clinics at Lilongwe Central Hospital.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-01) Mkutumula, L.
Open Access
Husband participation during pregnancy and delivery: a descriptive study of knowledge, attitudes and practices of selected adult males at Dedza district hospital.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-01) Kamanga, Martha A.
This quantitative, descriptive study was conducted at Dedza District Hospital in October 2000, to investigate the knowledge, attitudes and practices of husbands during pregnancy and delivery. Thirty husbands, whose wives were expectant or had just experienced childbirth, were recruited through maternity unit, using random sampling technique. In addition, the sample included sixteen women, who were wives of the husbands and were admitted in the maternity ward. A questionnaire with both open-ended and closed questions was used to collect data from the husbands while a question guide was used to conduct two sessions of focus group discussions with the women. Data analysis was done manually and by a computer Package known as Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The findings of this study revealed that participation of men during pregnancy and delivery is still very low in the hospital settings, despite the fact that some men are willing to be actively involved. The respondents were aware that men should participate during pregnancy and delivery, but had little knowledge on how men should participate during labor. The low knowledge level on participation of men during labor was attributed to the individual, cultural and institutional factors associated with pregnancy and labor. This implies that there should be proper dissemination of safe motherhood information to men in-order to clarify the rumors and misconceptions that are associated with childbirth. Results further revealed that men have a positive attitude towards pregnancy. This intrinsic motivation is a good indicator towards active participation. Men need support from both the hospital and community settings as this enables them to make wise and timely decisions when labor starts or when complications arise. These results are expected to benefit families; nurses; nurse educators, managers, researchers and policy makers in both the government and nongovernmental settings; and other healthy care providers in improving participation of husbands during pregnancy and delivery. In addition, the results will act as a basis for future research on involvement of men in pregnancy and delivery.
Open Access
Knowledge and Practices Towards Hiv/Aids Prevention among Women of Low Socio-Economic Status in Female Headed Households
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-01) Mukwala, Maria
The purpose of this descriptive study was to assess the knowledge and examine the practices towards HIV/Aids prevention of women of low socio-economic status in female-headed households, in order to identify the barriers and potential strategies to influence safer sex among women The specific objectives of the study were to determine the women s knowledge on HIV/AIDS transmission and prevention. To identify their practices towards achieving safer sex, to explore the barriers towards safer sex practices and to make recommendations to policy makers, which would benefit the majority of women, with particular attention to low income women. The study was conducted in the townships of Limbe, Bangwe, Mpemba, Lunzu, Ndirande, Chilomoni and Zingwangwa in Blantyre City and consisted of a convenient sample of 35 women of low socio-economic status in female-headed households The data collection methods used consisted of, structured interview schedules to obtain quantitative information on knowledge and practices and semi structured interviews for collection of some qualitative data on practices. Data was analysed and coded using the data master sheet and the EPI (Version 6.04) statistical programme. Coding for open ended questions was done by sampling of questions where the most frequently occurring responses, were coded by grouping similar types of responses into single categories. The findings of the study indicated that, despite the women's high knowledge levels of HIV/AIDS and awareness of the seriousness of AIDS, most of the women in the study were not practicing safer sex. Lack of perceived susceptibility, powerlessness to negotiate condom use, negative attitudes about the use of condoms, unavailability of condoms and economical status, interfered with safer sex practices. This study thus reveals an area that needs attention i.e. that apart from emphasising the level of awareness, there should be a focus on how to effect behavioural change among a knowledgeable population. Findings of the study have implications for nursing education, research, practice and for policy makers, who have to enact and ensure that strategies aimed at stemming the rampage of HIV/AIDS should benefit women of low socio-economic status. Findings of the study will help increase the body of nursing knowledge, so that nurses can competently impart in women accurate and appropriate information to influence behavioural change in them.
Open Access
Examine the use of condoms among the religious women and women involved in casual sex.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-11) Makunje, Treza M.
This is a correlational study whose purpose was to determine condom use among religious women and those women involved in casual sex. It was also to determine the relationship between religion and condom use as well as the relationship between casual sex and condom use. A convenient sample of 263 women was used of which 68.10% were female bank workers. 31.9% were female college students (teaching and nursing students) in Lilongwe and Blantyre districts. Data collection was done using a questionnaire and data analysis was done on computer using a statistical package for social science (SPSS) for windows. Findings in general showed that relationship between religion and condom use was significant (P—. 0485) while the relationship between casual sex and condom use was insignificant (P=. 0695). Recommendations proposed include health authorities. Spiritual work and nurses to work hand in hand in the fight against HIV/AIDS by providing the right information pertaining to condom use to people hence preventing the spread of the disease.
Open Access
How marital status and gender affect one’s attitude towards testing for HIV/AIDS.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-11) Jere, Mirriam Lisa A.
The purpose of the study was to find out how marital status and gender affect one's attitude towards testing for HIV / AIDS. The type of research design that was used to study this problem was correlation. This was a non-experimental design used to examine the relationships among variables as they occur without being controlled. The study drew a sample of five hundred and twenty - nine participants (529). The information was be collected over a period of three weeks through a questionnaire that was be provided to the participants understudy. Later it was analysed on the computer using a statistical package for social science (SPSS) for windows. The limitations of this study included poor representation of participant because only two regions were used, central and southern regions. Another limitation is that the group of participants chosen was not chosen by random sampling but rather chosen from a certain specific area. It is hoped that the results of this study will help the nursing profession and nursing research on how marital status and gender influence one's willingness to test for HIV/AID.
Open Access
The impact of level of education religiosity, religion and church attendance on number of woman's sexual partners
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-12) Munthali, Margret Kalimbausoyo
A correlation type of design used to examine if level of education, religion, religiosity and frequency of attending religious service influence or determine a woman's number of sexual partners. HIV/AIDS is becoming pandemic all over the world including Malawi . As of now many women are becoming infected with the virus at higher rates than men. This research is very important because it will help to identify which groups of women need more intervention so as to reduce women's number of partners as one way of AIDS prevention and control in Malawi This research was conducted in two cities -Lilongwe and Blantyre. 263 women were recruited as subjects ; students from Kamuzu college of Nursing , student teachers from Teachers Training College [TTC], clerical women from banks were selected , The variables of the study were level of education , church attendance religiosity, religion and number of partners. Independent variables were level of education religion religiosity and frequency in attending religious services while dependent variable was number of sexual partners . Data was collected using a questionnaire. This questionnaire was distributed to every participant in this research. Data was analysed through tables, means percentages and chi- square. On correlation design, it was very difficult to establish the causal inference and it was also difficult to establish generalisability to all women of Malawi since this study only included Blantyre and Lilongwe. However , potential threats of attrition maturation did not affect the study . This is so because all the subjects were studied only at once and in addition retention of subjects was be high because everybody was given a chance to join or not these subjects were found in their own environment. The other strength was that this larger sample of five hundred women helped to establish the relationship. The overall results have shown that there is a statistical significance between level of education and number of sexual partners being those who are educated most are having many sexual partners . Church attendance have also shown that there is a relationship since those who are attending weekly or twice a week have no multiple partners. However ,there is no any statistical significance between religiosity between religion religiosity and number of sexual partners.
Open Access
Infertility: Experiences of Women Living With Primary Infertility in Ndirande, Chimwankhunda, Michiru and Chilomoni Townships, Blanytre City.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-21) Chepuka, Lignet
In recent years, several studies have demonstrated high rates of infertility in many countries in sub-Saharan Africa that exceed those reported from other parts of the world. In spite of the high incidence of infertility in Africa, there has been little or no specific interventions and programmatic efforts since many African countries have concomitantly high rates of fertility. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of infertility from the perceptive of the women who are living such an experience. The King's open systems framework for nursing consisting of three interesting systems, which are personal, inter personal and social systems formed the basis of the study. A quantitative research using a descriptive design was adopted for the study. The study used a purposive sample of 10 participants and face-to-face interviews were conducted to collect data, Data was analysed using the procedural method of data analysis authorized by Streubert and Carpenter (1991). The results of the study revealed that infertility is a crisis to the infertile women that robes her of personal fulfillment and reduces her status in the society and exposes her to abuse and infertility also places her at high risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections including HIV/Aids. The results have also provided crucial information to nursing practice, management, education, research, MOHP, National Aids Control Program and MOYCS for development of infertility policies and guidelines within a comprehensive reproductive health program.
Open Access
The influence of education, Perceived Seriousness on Telling partner if HIV Positive
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-23) Mukhwapa, Patronella Mayamiko
The purpose of this descriptive study in which both qualitative and quantitative methods were applied was to find out the influence of education and perceived seriousness of HIV-AIDS on telling partner if HIV positive. The study drew a sample of women from selected places in Blantyre and Lilongwe urban areas. The areas include: NBS (LL & BT) branches, NB (LL & BT) branches, KCN and TTC (LL &BT) campuses. The study had 263 women. Data was collected using a questionnaire and was analyzed both manually and using the computer (SPSS package). Chi-square statistical was used to test the study findings. The study findings indicated that education does not influence disclosure to partner if positive and also that perceived seriousness does not influence disclosure to partner if positive. It is with great hope that the results of this study will help health workers when doing pre and post counseling of HIV/AIDS people and their partners according to their level of education and level of perception
Open Access
The Impact of Marital Status and Level of Education on Aids Awareness and Willingness to Test for HIV in Women in the Cities of Blantyre and Lilongwe
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2001-04-30) Sakala, Thandizo Enalla
This study was part of a larger study that was looking at evaluation of AIDS prevention measures in Malawi. It was a replica of another study done in Botswana in 1998. This minor study was trying to determine differences in AIDS awareness and willingness to test for HIV amongst women in the cities of Lilongwe and Blantyre by level of education and marital status. This study used data collected by chief participants of the study. This study was to identify which groups of women between those that are married, not married, those that have higher education and those that have less education have more AIDS awareness and willingness to test for HIV. The information got from this study will serve as a basis for the concerned governmental and non-governmental sectors in formulating different policies aiming at dissemination of AIDS information to ensure equal, adequate acquisition of this AIDS related information across these women categories. This in the long run will help these women to adopt behavioral changes of which testing for HIV is a step leading to such behavioral change to control the AIDS epidemic in the country. The findings of this study will also help in generating knowledge gaps for future research. The study used a correlation study design. The study sample composed of 263 women . The participants comprised of students in nursing and teachers training colleges and clerical bank workers. Their ages ranged from 19_60. Out of these women 58.2% were married and 35.7% were not married. They had educational attainment ranging from junior certificate, MSCE and one or more years of college. The participants were from various ethnic groups of Malawi namely chewa, tumbuka, yao, ngoni, loin we, sena, nkhonde, Tonga. Their denominations included catholic, CCAP, seventh day Adventist and Moslems. The study was conducted in the two largest cities of Malawi: Blantyre and Lilongwe. The study variables are: independent : level of education and marital status, dependent variables: AIDS awareness and willingness to test for HIV. Data was collected by chief investigators of the larger study. Data collected was entered into the computer and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Chi-square was used to test the significance of results. The sample lacks the representativeness of the diversity of all types of Malawi. The design used for this study makes it difficult for drawing causal inferences since it is difficult to know which preceded the other. However the study has a larger sample size which increases its statistical conclusion validity. Also the presence of different sites removes possible effects of risk of random heterogeneity of subjects. The results of the study indicated that there is no difference in level of AIDS awareness between those women who were married and not married nor between those women who were highly educated and less educated. The study also revealed that there was no difference in level of willingness to test for HIV between those women who were married and not married. Similarly the study revealed that there was no difference in level of willingness to test for HIV between those women who had higher education and less education.
Open Access
Contributing factors to recurrent cases of smear positive Tuberculosis.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2002-07-05) Lwesha, Victoria Mayamingie
Tuberculosis is a leading cause of death among adults in Malawi and the single type that is giving many problems is smear positive Tuberculosis. This type of Tuberculosis needs adequate treatment with ant TB drugs for the required period. Many patients are readmitted into the hospital with recurrent smear positive Tuberculosis and this give problems to the health care system as it calls for retreatment. The purpose of this study was to assess and evaluate the contributing factors to recurrent cases of smear positive Tuberculosis. The study specifically aimed at exploring how supervision of patients is done at hospital, health center and guardian level, identifying problems that hinder effective treatment of smear positive Tuberculosis and exploring suggestions from health workers patients and guardians on how to improve treatment and supervision of patients with smear positive Tuberculosis. A descriptive research design was used and the study involved 30 subjects who consisted of health workers, patients and guardians. The study was conducted at Bottom hospital and area 25-health center. An interview guide was used to collect data from patients and health workers and a question guide was used for focus group discussions to collect data from guardians. Data was analysed manually to determine frequency distributions and responses from focus group discussions were categorized and subjected to descriptive statistics of content analysis. The study findings indicated lack of adequate knowledge by patients and guardians on TB disease and principles of treatment as one of the main contributing factor to recurrent cases of smear positive TB. The results also indicated lack of adequate supervision and adequate follow up of defaulters due to lack of human and material resources as other contributing factors. Poor social economic status of the patients and guardians, poor relationship between clients and health workers and long period of treatment featured as the other major contributing factors to recurrent cases of smear Positive Tuberculosis. If health planers and health workers do not address these areas, the hospitals will continue registering increased numbers of Smear Positive Tuberculosis.
Open Access
A study on factors influencing partner notification in patients with sexually transmitted infections at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2002-07-24) Mgawi, Norah Chimwemwe
The purpose of this study was to explore factors that would influence partner notification in patients with STI’s at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital. The Health Belief Model by Rosenstock (1988) was used to guide the study. A descriptive study design was used and data was collected by face to face interviews of 30 patients with sexually transmitted infections. A structured interview guide was utilized in data collection. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Frequency tables, graphs and pie charts were used to present data. An equal number of males and females were enrolled into the study, 50% (n=15) males and 50% (n=15) female. The participants' ages ranged from 18 to 64 years but the majority ranged from 20 to 24 years falling in the sexually active group of 15 to 49 years. Majority of the patients 80% (n=24) presented with symptoms which were commonly presented in most STI clinics for instance genital ulcers. It took less than 7 days for the majority to realize they had STI symptoms because symptoms caused discomfort in them. The results showed that upon realizing that they were infected, the majority 66.7%(n=20) did not tell their partners because they were scared and worried that their relationships would be disrupted. All the patients 100% (n=30) indicated that sexual matters were not communicated openly because they were supposed to be kept a secret. Though they had been treated privately at the clinic, 40% (n=12) of the patients did not interact comfortably with the health workers because of the nature and stigma of the infection. Attitude towards partner notification was good among the patients because it would prevent reinfection. In as much as they had good attitude towards partner notification the majority 63.3% (n=19) had no intentions to notify their partners because they had fears of relationship disruption. Therefore, this calls for health workers to ensure that clinics are client friendly so that patients express their concerns on the infection freely. In-service education for health workers on counselling and communication skills should be organized to reinforce the skills so that patients are helped accordingly and they are encouraged to notify partners.
Open Access
Psychosocial experiences of people living with HIV/AIDS at Lilongwe Central Hospital home-based care, in Lilongwe.
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2002-11-01) Ghambi, Lusayo Roosevelt
HIV/AIDS has caused a lot of havoc across the world. This is havoc, because it mostly affects people who are in their prime of life. Many children have remained orphaned because of this deadly disease. Having seen the condition worsening like this, this is why the researcher decided to look at psychosocial experiences of people living with HIV/AIDS at Lilongwe Central Hospital Home Based Care in Lilongwe. The convenient sample size of twelve people living with HIV/AIDS was employed in the study. Ten of them were males and two of them were females. The ages ranged from 25-52 years with an average of 39 years. Roy's adaptation model was used in this study as a theoretical framework. Data was collected using an interview schedule and it was summarized in form of frequency tables and content analysis. Findings from this study will benefit patients living with HIV/AIDS on how to live positively with their condition. The findings will also help guardians, health care providers NGOs and the government on how to give comprehensive care to people living with HIV/AIDS.
Open Access
The Impact of HIV/AIDS Behavior Change Messages on the Muona Community, Nsanje District
(Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, 2003-08-01) Magomero, Nedson Phimba Careford
The general objective of the research study was to find out knowledge level, awareness of behavioral change information and its impact on the Muona community. Specifically it looked into the knowledge levels and awareness of BCI in relation to HIV/AIDS prevention. It also looked into the factors that hinder effectiveness of the BCI. It was intended to solicit suggestions from community members on how BCI should presented in order to achieve the intended purpose in the community. It assessed perception on how to avoid the risky social and cultural practices that predispose people to HIV/ADS infection. In the sample a total sample of thirty (30) was used of which 53.3% (n=16) were females and 46.7% (n—14) were males. This sample was comprised of students and village members were 36.6% (n=l l ). Participants were recruited through convenient method at the school and in their homes. Data collection was done using a semi-structured questionnaire with closed and open ended questions. It was tested during the pilot study that allowed for corrections and reliability. Data were analysed using SPSS and content analysis under the guidance of the supervisor. This has minimised errors on the study findings. The study findings will be communicated to the community. A copy of findings shall be made available at Kamuzu College of Nursing Library, Trinity school of Nursing Library and at Fatima Community Day Secondary School Library.