Development, standardization, and contextualization of qualitative tools for possible use in the assessment and valuation of snakebite envenomation.

Abstract

Snakebite envenoming, a neglected tropical disease (NTD), is an important public health problem that is responsible for more than 1 lakh deaths annually across the world. However, the majority of the data in this regard is from health institutions and data from community settings are scarce. The aim of the current study was to develop valid and reliable qualitative tools for assessing the burden of snakebites and the health-seeking behavior of the community. The tools developed thus will serve in creating a community connection and thereby strengthen primary care teams engaged in managing snakebites at the primary care level. A four-step design was used; (a) review of the available literature on the burden of disease, tools used to assess the burden, and the guidelines on snakebite (b) development, laying out, and contextualization of questions/items for the tools (c) pilot testing and establishment of validity. A focus group discussion guide, key informant interview schedule for health professionals, community leaders, and traditional faith healers were matured for the implementation. A reliable and valid qualitative tool was developed to discern the speculations related to snakebites and its management in rural field settings.