Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Research Articles

The effect of war and siege on children with diabetes admitted to ayder comprehensive specialized hospital in mekelle, tigray, ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

The armed conflict in Tigray, which spanned from November 2020 to November 2022, along with the accompanying siege, led to the near-total collapse of Tigray’s healthcare system. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, the most common chronic condition in children, requires significant lifestyle adjustments, including daily insulin injections, regular glucose monitoring, and dietary modifications; all of which are severely impacted by war and siege. This study compared Type 1 diabetes care for children at the Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Tigray, during the conflict and siege period with that of the pre-war period. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional survey, analyzing data from September 2019 to August 2020 (pre-war period) and comparing it with data from September 2021 to August 2022 (war and siege period). Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were employed, and Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlation analyses were used to evaluate correlations where appropriate. We identified 143 pediatric patients admitted (56 during the pre-war period and 87 during the war and siege period), with a mean age of 109 months in both periods. During the war and siege, a higher proportion of diabetes admissions were due to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) (90%) compared to the pre-war period (75%). In the pre-war period, the most common trigger for DKA was infections (35%), while in the war and siege period, it shifted to malnutrition (47%), infections (46%), lack of access to healthcare facilities (31%), and running out of medicines (24%). Complications such as death, renal failure, cerebral edema, and shock were more prevalent during the war and siege periods. The case fatality rate was significantly higher during the war and siege (9%) compared to the pre-war period (0%), correlating strongly with the severity of DKA, the degree of hypokalemia, the presence of complications, and admission during the war and siege. Our study showed the negative impact of war and siege on diabetes care in children demonstrating a high rate of DKA admissions with increased severity, complications, malnutrition, and case fatality rates. People with diabetes especially type 1 deserve great attention during such a crisis as the lack of insulin could lead to severe complications including death.

Prevalence of antibacterial resistance among hospitalized patients in Tigray, Ethiopia, 2021: A cross-sectional design

ObjectiveTo describe the prevalence of antibacterial resistance among hospitalized patients in Tigray. MethodsA cross-sectional study design was applied in hospitalized septic medical patients in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from March 2020 to January 2021. Socio-demographic, clinical, and laboratory-related data was collected, and descriptive analysis was done to present the result. ResultIn this study, a total of 153 hospitalized septic patients were included with a median age of 30 IQR (22-49) years. A total of 187 different samples were collected from 153 participants of the blood and foci of infection, and bacterial isolates were found in 103 (55%) samples. A total of 70 (45.6%) septic patients showed antibacterial resistance at least to one antibiotic. The most common isolates were Klebsiella pneumonia, followed by Escherichia coli and Acinetobacter species with equal distribution. These isolates were found to be resistant to ampicillin (79.9%), cotrimoxazole (64.1%), and ciprofloxacin (64.1%). ConclusionThis study revealed a significant problem of antibacterial resistance in the referral hospital. The most commonly prescribed and affordable antibiotics were found to be resistant. So, the hospital and the country as well are expected to minimize the magnitude of the problem through different AMR strategic stewardship initiatives.

Therapeutic inertia and contributing factors among ambulatory patients with hypertension

BackgroundTherapeutic inertia refers to the failure of healthcare providers to initiate or intensify therapy based on current evidence-based guidelines, even when the desired treatment goal is not achieved. Despite poorly controlled hypertension, clinicians often hesitate to intensify treatment. Therapeutic inertia is currently receiving more attention as a significant reason for clinicians’ inability to effectively manage hypertension. However, in our setting, there is limited knowledge about therapeutic inertia and its contributing factors.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to investigate therapeutic inertia and contributing factors among ambulatory patients with hypertension.MethodA prospective observational study was conducted at the cardiac clinic of Ayder comprehensive specialized hospital in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia. Patients were recruited into the study during their medication refilling appointments using a simple random sampling technique. All patients were followed for a minimum of 6 months to assess therapeutic inertia, which was defined as the healthcare providers’ failure to initiate or intensify therapy based on current evidence-based guidelines when therapeutic goals were not achieved. Data were collected through patient interviews and review of their medical records. We utilized binary logistic regression analysis to determine factors associated with therapeutic inertia.ResultThe study included 282 participants, with an equal male-to-female ratio. The mean age of the participants was 56.6 ± 12.3 years. Among all participants, a majority (67.4%) had uncontrolled hypertension. The study revealed that 72% of patients with uncontrolled hypertension experienced therapeutic inertia. In response to this issue, we recommended dose escalation for 73% of the patients and the initiation of additional drug therapy for 27% of them. Multivariable analysis indicated that having three or more medications (AOR = 4.74, 95%CI = 1.94–11.61) and having stage II hypertension (AOR = 3.06, 95%CI = 1.32–7.08) were identified as independent predictors of therapeutic inertia.ConclusionThe findings of our study indicated that a large proportion of the patients had poorly controlled hypertension, and a significant number of these patients also demonstrated therapeutic inertia. The number of medications and stage II hypertension were identified as independent predictors of therapeutic inertia. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize patients at risk of therapeutic inertia and provide them with additional support. Moreover, practice based training should be given to clinicians in order to enhance treatment intensification and overall treatment outcome among ambulatory patients with hypertension.

Prevalence and associated factors of lipodystrophy in type 1 diabetic children and adolescents at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Tigray, Ethiopia

IntroductionLipodystrophy can cause poor glycemic control in addition to cosmetic problems in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus. However, data on its prevalence and associated factors is scarce among children and adolescents who live in developing countries like Ethiopia.ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence and identify associated factors of lipodystrophy in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus who visited the endocrinology clinic of Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital between May 1 and July 31, 2020.MethodThis was an institution-based cross-sectional study conducted on 57 children and 65 adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus who had been taking insulin injections for a year or more. The dependent variable was lipodystrophy. A pretested, structured questionnaire was used to collect data related to lipodystrophy and other characteristics. The principal investigator oversaw the data collection, which was done by pediatric and child health specialty residents with training. Data was subjected to descriptive statistics, and predictors of lipodystrophy were identified by fitting a multivariable logistic regression model. Statistical significance was declared at p < 0.05.ResultsMore than half (53.3%) of patients were in the age range of 13 to 17. The male-to-female ratio was almost 1:1. Educational status for 63.1% of patients was primary school. Four-fifths of patients were residing in urban areas. Of the 122 participants, 60 (49.2%) had lipodystrophy (48.3% lipohypertrophy and 0.8% lipoatrophy), with grade II lipohypertrophy being the most common type at 81.7%. The thigh was the most common site of lipodystrophy. In multivariable regression analysis, the long duration of insulin injection (AOR = 3.6, 95% CI, 1.5 to 9.0, p = 0.005) and inappropriate rotation of the injection site (AOR = 9.0, 95% CI, 2.2 to 37.0, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with lipodystrophy. HbA1c testing was conducted for 70 patients, and poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7%) was found in 43 (61.4%) of them. Patients with lipodystrophy were more likely to have poor glycemic control (75%) than those without lipodystrophy (47.1%) (p = 0.016).ConclusionThe prevalence of lipodystrophy was comparable with other studies. Long duration of insulin injection and improper rotation of the injection site are associated with an increased risk of lipodystrophy. Patients with lipodystrophy were more likely to have poor glycemic control, defined by higher HgA1c, than those without lipodystrophy. Proper education of patients and their parents must include correct injection techniques, rotating injection sites, and changing injection sites intermittently to lessen the risk of developing lipodystrophy.

Brief communication: reasons for non-adherence of co-trimoxazole prophylaxis therapy among people living with HIV in a resource-limited setting, Northern Ethiopia

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and reasons for nonadherence to cotrimoxazole prophylaxis therapy. A cross-sectional study was conducted among people living with HIV attending Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Data were collected through interviews and reviews of medical records. Binary logistic regression was employed to analyze factors associated with CPT nonadherence. Approximately two-thirds (65.5%) of the participants were non-adherent to co-trimoxazole prophylaxis therapy. The main reasons for non-adherence were side effects, pill fatigue and forgetfulness. Strategies to improve adherence to co-trimoxazole prophylaxis therapy should focus on the combined patient, clinical and medication related issues of people living with HIV.

Knowledge, attitude, practice, and associated factors of health professionals towards cardiopulmonary resuscitation at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, 2023, Tigray, Ethiopia.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a crucial medical technique that is performed manually to preserve intact brain function. Early initiation of CPR manoeuvres and activation of the chain of survival are key factors in the prognosis of patients with cardiorespiratory arrest (CRA). Inadequacy in any step of CPR due to a lack of knowledge or skill is associated with a poor return of spontaneous circulation and a decreased survival rate. To assess the knowledge, attitude, practice, and factors associated with health towards CPR at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital 2023. Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of health professionals towards cardiopulmonary CPR in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital Of Tigray, Ethiopia from 1 May to 30 August 2023. Data were collected using structured questionnaires by Two BSC anaesthesia staff and One MSc. as supervisor. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. The Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 23. Variables with P value less than 0.20 were fitted into multivariate logistic regression. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, median, interquartile range, percentages, tables, graphs and charts were used to present the results. A total of 262 Of 277 healthcare providers were included in the study, with a response rate of 93.3%. Knowledge, attitude, practice of health professionals towards CPR was 22.5%, 39% and 31.5%, respectively. MSc degree in level of education [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 8.561 95% CI=2.109-34.746], CPR training (AOR: 2.157, 95%, 1.005, 4.631), and Work experience 6-10years and more than 10 (AOR =0.195, 95% CI, 0.071-0.539) and AOR =0.148 195 95% CI, 0.017, 1.285) were significantly associated with knowledge. The Anaesthetist and Medical doctors were 5.5 times (AOR, 5.50, 95% CI 1.263-23.93) and 2.125 times (AOR: 2.125, 95% CI, 0.865-5.216) respectively more likely to have favourable attitude than the midwives. Regarding to practice participants with CPR training (AOR: 1.804 95% CI=0.925-3.518), good knowledge (AOR: 2.766 95% CI=1.312-5.836) and favourable attitude (AOR: 1.931, 95% CI=0.995-3.749) were significantly associated with safe practice. The overall level of health professionals, knowledge, attitude, practices, and factors associated towards CPR in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital at Tigray, Ethiopia were insufficient, favourable and safe enough. Regular CPR training is recommended to increase the knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare professionals towards CPR.

Magnitude and associated factors of intraoperative hypothermia among pediatric patients undergoing elective surgery at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital 2023: prospective observational cross-sectional study Tigray, Ethiopia.

Hypothermia is characterized by a drop in core body temperature of less than 36°C. It occurs frequently throughout the operating period and affects surgical patient outcomes differently in terms of morbidity and mortality. Because of coagulopathy, metabolic acidosis, multiple organ failure, hemodynamic instability, and infections, a core temperature below 34°C is strongly associated with mortality. This study aimed to assess the magnitude and associated factors of intraoperative hypothermia in pediatric patients undergoing elective surgery at the Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. A prospective observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 399 pediatric patients undergoing elective surgery at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Tigray, Ethiopia, from 1 May 2023, to 30 July 2023. Participants in the study were selected by a systematic random sampling technique. The data collection procedure was chart review and intraoperative temperature measurement, and the collected data were analyzed by SPSS version 23. The independent variables were analyzed using binary and multi-logistic regression. The odds ratio, 95% CI, and p value of less than 0.05 were considered statistical significance. The magnitude of intraoperative hypothermia was 52.9%. Neonate and infant [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 6, 95% CI: 3.7, 9.8], (AOR=4.5, 95% CI: 2.9, 7) respectively, volume of fluid administered greater than half-liter [AOR: 4.37, (95% CI, 3, 6.4)], patients who underwent surgery during the morning [AOR: 5.3, (95% CI: 3.8, 7.4)], and duration of surgery and anesthesia greater than 120 minutes [AOR: 2.7, (95% CI, 1.8, 4)] and (AOR=3.4, 95% CI, 2.4, 4.9], respectively, were factors significantly associated with intraoperative hypothermia. This study revealed a high magnitude of intraoperative hypothermia among pediatric patients. Being neonates and infants, having a cold volume of IV fluid administered greater than half a liter, entering surgery during the morning, the duration of surgery, and the anesthesia time were significantly associated with intraoperative hypothermia. The authors would like to advise anesthetists to use warm intravenous fluids, calculate IV fluids, and maintain room temperature.

Characteristics and outcome of pregnancy-related acute kidney injury in a teaching hospital in a low-resource setting: a five-year retrospective review.

Pregnancy-related kidney injury contributes to a high burden of acute kidney injury in low-resource settings and causes maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Few studies have examined the impact of acute kidney injury in resource-limited countries, with very limited research on pregnancy-specific disorders in Ethiopia. This study aimed to determine the characteristics of pregnancy-related acute kidney injury, outcomes and associated factors. A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the clinical profile and maternal-fetal outcome of pregnancy-related acute kidney injury at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Tigray, Ethiopia, from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021. Maternal and fetal outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine the association between the dependent and independent variables. Of 27,350 mothers who delivered at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2021, a total of 187 women developed pregnancy-related acute kidney injury, a prevalence rate of 68 per 100,000 births. Preeclampsia, sepsis and pre-renal causes due to dehydration and hemorrhage were the most common causes of pregnancy-related acute kidney injury in this study. Hemodialysis was needed in 8.6% (n = 16) of patients. Of the 187 pregnancy-related acute kidney injuries, 143 (76.5%) recovered completely and 30 (16%) partially. The mortality rate was 7.5%. Preexisting chronic kidney disease (AOR = 30.13; 95% CI: 2.92, 310.84), use of vasoactive agents (AOR = 5.77; 95% CI: 1.47, 22.67), increase in creatinine per unit (AOR = 1.65; 95% CI: 1.11, 2.45) and complications related to acute kidney injury (AOR = 5.26; 95% CI: 1.73, 16.00) were determinants of the composite endpoints (partial renal recovery and death). This study emphasizes acute kidney injury in resource-limited settings is a significant cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The vast majority of patients with pregnancy-related acute kidney injury recovered completely from kidney injury. The main causes of pregnancy-related acute kidney injury were preeclampsia, sepsis and pre-renal associated with hemorrhage and dehydration. Preexisting renal disease, use of vasopressors, increase in creatinine per unit and complications associated with acute kidney injury were determining factors for concomitant fetomaternal mortality. Appropriate preventive strategies during prenatal care and prompt treatment are needed for pregnancy-related acute kidney injury.

Predictors of infective endocarditis associated in-hospital mortality in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Tigray, North Ethiopia: Microbiological,clinical features, and management profiles.

Infective endocarditis (IE) is a continuously evolving disease with a high mortality rate despite different advances in treatment. In Ethiopia, there is a paucity of data regarding IE. Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing IE-related in-hospital mortality and characterization of IE patients based on their microbiological, clinical features, and management profiles in the Ayder Comprehensive Specified Hospital (ACSH). We conducted a hospital-based prospective follow-up study with all consecutive sampling techniques for suspected infective endocarditis patients admitted to ACSH from January 2020 to February 2022. Echocardiography was performed, and three sets of blood samples for blood culture were taken as per the standard protocol. We also performed isolation of microbial etiologies and antimicrobial susceptibility tests. The data was analyzed using STATA version 16. Stepwise logistic regression was run to identify predictors of in-hospital mortality. Effects were measured through the odds ratio at the 5% level of significance. Seventy-four cases of suspected infective endocarditis were investigated; of these, 54 episodes fulfilled modified Duke's criteria. Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) (85.2%) was the most common underlying heart disease. Murmur (94.4%), fever (68.5%), and pallor (57.4%) were the most common clinical findings. Vegetation was present in 96.3% of episodes. Blood culture was positive only in 7 (13%) episodes. Complications occurred in 41 (75.9%) cases, with congestive heart failure being the most common. All patients were managed medically, with no surgical intervention. The in-hospital mortality was 14 (25.9%). IE-related in-hospital mortality was significantly associated with surgery recommendation and myalgia clinical symptoms. IE occurred relatively in a younger population, with RHD as the most common underlying heart disease. There was a high rate of culture-negative endocarditis, and the majority of patients were treated empirically. Mortality was high. The establishment of cardiac surgery and strengthening microbiology services should be given top priority.

Pediatric Shock: The Magnitude, Its Determinants and Short-Term Outcome on Patients. A Cross-Sectional Hospital-Based Study.

Pediatric shock is a potentially fatal illness which develops after a systemic circulatory system failure in children. It appears to be a common emergency in children and produces substantial morbidity and mortality particularly if there is no early identification and therapy. The extent and causes of shock-induced death among children in Ethiopia have not been sufficiently studied. This study was conducted to evaluate the magnitude, determinants and short-term outcome of shock in pediatric patients who visited Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia. From October 1, 2020, to July 30, 2022, an observational cross-sectional study was carried out at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. The study included 132 children from the age of 1 month to 18 years. According to pediatric advanced life support guidelines, shock was diagnosed among patients. To gather information, a pretested questionnaire was employed. To examine the relationship between the independent variables and shock outcome, bivariate logistic regression was performed, and statistical significance was defined as a P-value of 0.05 or lower. The prevalence of shock was 2.2%. This study revealed 70.5% decompensated stage of shock. Mortality rate of shock was 45.5% (95% CI: 37.1-53.8). A delayed presentation by more than one week with an adjusted odd ratio (AOR) of 16.9 (95% CI: 2.3-123), type of shock other than hypovolemic shock with AOR of 8.3 (95% CI: 1.4-48), stage of shock with AOR of 27.8 (95% CI: 2.8-157), requirement of mechanical ventilation with AOR of 11 (95% CI: 2.6-53) and length of hospital stay less than three days with AOR of 9 (95% CI: 1.7-48) were identified as a predictor of mortality by shock in children. According to this study, shock causes a high rate of child mortality. Independent predictors of mortality included delayed presentation, shock type, stage of shock, the need for mechanical ventilation, and brief hospital stay (less than three days).

Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of urinary tract infections causing bacterial isolates and associated risk factors among HIV patients in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia

BackgroundUrinary tract infections, a prevalent global infectious disease, are clinical issues not well studied in HIV-positive individuals. UTIs have become a global drug resistance issue, but the prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of UTI-causing bacteria among HIV patients in Tigray, Ethiopia, are poorly understood. This study aims to identify the prevalence of UTI-causing bacteria, their antibiotic susceptibility patterns, and associated risk factors in HIV patients attending ART clinics at Mekelle General Hospital and Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia.MethodClean-catch midstream urine samples (10–15 mL) were collected from HIV patients who are attending ART clinics at Mekelle General Hospital and Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Samples were analyzed based on standard microbiological protocols using cysteine-lactose electrolyte deficient (CLED) agar. Pure colonies of bacterial isolates were obtained by sub-culturing into Mac-Conkey, Manitol Salt agar and blood agar plates. The bacterial isolates were then identified using macroscopic, microscopic, biochemical, and Gram staining methods. Gram-negative bacteria were identified using biochemical tests like triple sugar iron agar, Simon’s citrate agar, lysine iron agar, urea, motility test, and indol test, whereas Gram-positive isolates were identified using catalase and coagulase tests. The Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion technique was used to analyze the antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of bacterial isolates. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0.ResultsAmong the 224 patients, 28 (12.5%) of them had been infected by UTIs-causing bacteria. E. coli was the dominant bacterium (16 (57%)) followed by K. pneumoniae (4 (14%)), and S. aureus (3 (11%)). Of the total bacterial isolates, 22 (78.6%) of them developed multi-drug resistance. All Gram-positive (100%) and 75% of Gram-negative bacterial isolates were found to be resistant to two or more drugs. Patients with a history of UTIs, and with CD4 count < 200 cells/ mm3, were more likely to have significant bacteriuria. Compared to male patients, female patients were more affected by the UTIs-causing bacteria. More than 93% of the UTIs-causing bacterial isolates were susceptible to nitrofurantoin, ceftriaxone, ciprofloxacin, and gentamycin; whereas they are highly resistant to ampicillin (96%), cotrimoxazole (82%) and tetracycline (71%).ConclusionsMost of the bacterial isolates were highly resistant to ampicillin, cotrimoxazole, and tetracycline. Female patients were more affected by the UTIs causing bacteria. The highest prevalence (12.5%) of UTIs in HIV patients needs special attention for better management and monitoring. Previous UTI history and immune suppression are predictors of UTIs, highlighting the need for intervention measures involving molecular studies to identify resistant bacteria genes and promote patient immune reconstitution.

Lived experience of healthcare providers amidst war and siege: a phenomenological study of Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia

BackgroundMost wars are fought in poor countries and result in significant proportions of disabilities and mortalities. The consequences of wars and political instability on health workers and access to healthcare remain under-studied. This study aimed to explore the lived experience of healthcare providers amidst war and siege, in a teaching hospital in northern Ethiopia.MethodsThe study was conducted between February 2022 to March 2022. A qualitative phenomenological study was conducted between February to March 2022 with 20 healthcare providers working in Ayder Comprehensive and Specialized Hospital (ACSH), Tigray, Ethiopia, during the Tigray War. The study employed in-depth interviews.ResultsThe main themes identified included the consequences of the siege on health service delivery at ACSH, personal survival threats posed by the siege, immediate health consequences of the siege among care providers, and consequences of the siege on the motivation and energy of health professionals.ConclusionsHealth workers are exposed to a range of direct and indirect impacts of war, emphasizing the need to amend the conditions in which they live and work.

Patient Satisfaction with the Implementation of Telehealth in Ambulatory Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Single Institution Experience.

COVID-19 has reduced the capacity for delivering essential health services due to lockdown restrictions. Telehealth is an effective alternative option to improve healthcare access. However, there remain implementation challenges to patient adoption in resource-limited settings such as Ethiopia. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess patient satisfaction following the implementation of telehealth in ambulatory settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in the Tigray region of Northern Ethiopia. Patients who used the telehealth service were invited to participate in a patient satisfaction survey. All statistical analyses were performed using STATA Version 14.1. A total of 149 patients have participated in the survey. Out of the total participants, 129 (86.6%) found that telehealth is easy to understand and overall satisfaction for telehealth was 87.9%. About two-thirds of the patients (97, 65.1%) reported that the telehealth visit is just as good as a traditional visit. The vast majority of participants (148, 98.6%) stated that they would definitely or probably use telehealth again and would recommend it to others. The majority of respondents (137, 91.9%) followed the recommendations provided. Patients have a high level of satisfaction with the use of telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. About two-thirds of patients said the telehealth visit was just as good as a traditional visit. The majority of patients followed the recommendations given to them by the healthcare providers and stated that they would definitely or probably use telehealth in the future and would recommend it to others. This high level of patient satisfaction with telehealth implementation suggests that the service could be considered in low-income countries as well.

Maternal sepsis and factors associated with poor maternal outcomes in a tertiary hospital in Tigray, Ethiopia: a retrospective chart review

BackgroundMaternal sepsis is the third leading cause of maternal death in the world. Women in resource-limited countries shoulder most of the burdens related to sepsis. Despite the growing risk associated with maternal sepsis, there are limited studies that have tried to assess the impact of maternal sepsis in resource-limited countries. The current study determined the outcomes of maternal sepsis and factors associated with having poor maternal outcomes.MethodsA facility-based retrospective cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the clinical presentation, maternal outcomes, and factors associated with maternal sepsis. The study was conducted in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Tigray, Ethiopia, from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021. Sociodemographic characteristics, clinical characteristics and outcomes of women with maternal sepsis were analyzed using a descriptive statistic. The association between dependent and independent variables was determined using multivariate logistic regression.ResultsAmong 27,350 live births, 298 mothers developed sepsis, giving a rate of 109 maternal sepsis for every 10,000 live births. There were 22 maternal deaths, giving rise to a case fatality rate of 7.4% and a maternal mortality ratio of 75 per 100,000 live births. Admission to the intensive care unit and use of mechanical ventilator were observed in 23.5% and 14.1% of the study participants, respectively. A fourth (24.2%) of the mothers were complicated with septic shock. Overall, 24.2% of women with maternal sepsis had severe maternal outcomes (SMO). Prolonged hospital stay, having parity of two and above, having the lung as the focus of infection, switchof antibiotics, and developing septic shock were significantly associated with SMO.ConclusionsThis study revealed that maternal sepsis continues to cause significant morbidity and mortality in resource-limited settings; with a significant number of women experiencing death, intensive care unit admission, and intubation attributable to sepsis. The unavailability of recommended diagnostic modalities and management options has led to the grave outcomes observed in this study. To ward off the effects of infection during pregnancy, labor and postpartum period and to prevent progression to sepsis and septic shock in low-income countries, we recommend that concerted and meticulous efforts should be applied to build the diagnostic capacity of health facilities, to have effective infection prevention and control practice, and to avail recommended diagnostic and management options.

Drug therapy problems among hospitalized patients with cardiovascular disease

BackgroundOptimal utilization of cardiovascular drugs is crucial in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with cardiovascular diseases. However, the effectiveness of these drugs can be compromised by drug therapy problems. Hospitalized patients with cardiovascular diseases, particularly those with multiple comorbidities, polypharmacy, and advanced age, are more susceptible to experiencing drug therapy problems. However, little is known about drug therapy problems and their contributing factors among patients with cardiovascular disease in our setting. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate drug therapy problems and their contributing factors in patients with cardiovascular diseases.MethodA prospective observational study was conducted among hospitalized patients with cardiovascular disease at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in the Tigray region of Northern Ethiopia from December 2020 to May 2021. We collected the data through patient interviews and review of patients’ medical records. We employed Cipolle’s method to identify and categorize drug therapy problems and sought consensus from a panel of experts through review. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Software Package SPSS version 22. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the contributing factors of drug therapy problems in patients with cardiovascular disease. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsThe study included a total of 222 patients, of whom 117 (52.7%) experienced one or more drug-related problems. We identified 177 drug therapy problems equating to 1.4 ± 0.7 drug therapy problems per patients. The most frequently identified DTP was the need for additional drug therapy (32.4%), followed by ineffective drug therapy (14%), and unnecessary drug therapy (13.1%). The predicting factors for drug therapy problems were old age (AOR: 3.97, 95%CI: 1.68–9.36) and number of medications ≥ 5 (AOR: 2.68, 95%CI: 1.47–5.11).ConclusionMore than half of the patients experienced drug therapy problems in our study. Old age and number of medications were the predicting factors of drug therapy problems. Therefore, greater attention and focus should be given to patients who are at risk of developing drug therapy problems.

Determinants of Depression among Adult Epileptic Patients, in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and Mekelle General Hospital, Tigray, Ethiopia. Case Control Study

Background: Depression is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders occurring in patients with epilepsy. There are no studies that assessed the factors among epileptic people in Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia. Therefore, this study determined the factors of depression in people with epilepsy. Methods: Unmatched case control study was conducted from May 1 to 30, 2019 in Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and Mekelle General Hospital on 66 cases and 132 controls calculated using double population proportion formula. Study subjects were selected two controls after each case. Data were collected using a standardized and pretested questioner. Data was collected by four trained BSc nursing professionals under Psychiatric Nurse supervisor. Depression was measured by patient health questionnaire-nine using face to face interview techniques. Data were analyzed using SPSS 23. Result: This study revealed that being female (AOR=2.79, 95% CI: 1.08-7.18, P=0.03), living with relative (AOR=2.82,95% CI:1.12-7.18, P=0.03), seizure frequency four and above per month (AOR=6.00, 95% CI:1.39-25.86, P=0.02), age onset of epilepsy between 12-24 years of age (AOR=3.11, 95% CI: 1.06-9.18, P=0.04), poor social support (AOR=5.34, 95% CI: 2.13-13.41, P=0.00) were significantly associated with depression. Conclusion: Factor associated like gender (female), living status (with relative), poor social support, age onset of epilepsy (between 12 to 24 years) and seizure frequency are the factors associated with depression. Depression prevention efforts should be targeted towards these risk factors.

Antimicrobial Use-Related Problems Among Hospitalized Pediatric Patients: A Prospective Observational Study.

Antimicrobials are among the most commonly misused medications, leading to antimicrobial resistance, and therefore demand more attention. There are limited studies documenting "antimicrobial use-related problems" in developing countries, especially in pediatric patients. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of antimicrobial use-related problems and risk factors among hospitalized pediatric patients. A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted in Ayder comprehensive specialized hospital (ACSH) in the Tigray region, Ethiopia. The participants of the study were pediatric patients aged ≤15 years who were admitted with a diagnosis of infectious disease between September 2019 and November 2019. A total of 232 pediatric patients were included in the study. Of these, 59.5% of the patients were male and the mean age (SD) of the patients was 5.8 (5.2) years. Of the 232 patients surveyed, a total of 177 antimicrobial use-related problems were identified. One or more antimicrobial use-related problems have occurred in more than half of the patients (53.9%). The commonest antimicrobial use problems were unnecessary antimicrobial therapy (22.8%) followed by need additional antimicrobial therapy (16.4%). In a multivariate logistic regression model, patients with comorbidities (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04-3.27) and hospital stays exceeding one week (AOR=1.88, 95% CI: 1.08-3.26) were predictors of antimicrobial use-related problems. Antimicrobial use-related problems were found in a significant proportion of pediatric patients. Addressing these issues necessitates collaborative efforts, emphasizing targeted education, strengthened antimicrobial stewardship, ensuring responsible antimicrobial use and enhancing pediatric care.

Neonatal Seizure Pattern, Outcome, and its Predictors Among Neonates Admitted to NICU of Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia.

Seizure is the most frequently observed symptom of neurological disorders and an important determinant of outcome during neonatal period. In clinical practice, it is prevalent and observed in neonates admitted to hospital in low-resources countries, but due to the paucity of studies in these regions, little is known about its pattern, clinical outcomes of hospitalization, and its predictors. Therefore, aims to evaluate seizure patterns, clinical outcomes, and its predictors among neonates admitted to the NICU of ACSH, Mekelle, and Tigray. A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among neonates with neonatal seizures admitted to NICU of Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Data collection was done from record reviews. SPSS Version 25 was used. Descriptive statistics and bivariate logistic regressions where a p-value of <0.05 is considered statistically significant. Out of 1622 NICU admissions, 155 (9.6%) were cases of neonatal seizure. The most frequently observed types of seizure in this study were subtle 70 (45.1%) and tonic 49 (31.6%) respectively. At the end of hospitalization 70.3% of neonates were discharged improved, 21.3% of neonates died and 8.4% of neonates had severe neurologic deficits. Poorly controlled seizures (AOR 4.8, 95% CI 2.6-9.2), prolonged duration of labor (AOR 4.3, 95% CI 2.2-8.8) and seizure onset <72 hours (AOR 3.7, 95% CI 1.6-8.5), respectively, were found to be independent predictors of poor neonatal outcome. Of all neonatal admissions, neonatal seizure was observed in close to 9.6%. The most frequently observed type of seizure was subtle. Of those admitted neonates, 30% had poor outcomes following the end of their hospitalization or when they leave against medical advice for lack of improvement). Poorly controlled seizures, prolonged duration of labor, and seizure onset <72 hours were independent predictors of poor neonatal outcomes.

Impact of a double catastrophe, war and COVID-19, on health service utilization of a tertiary care hospital in Tigray: an interrupted time-series study

BackgroundIn developing nations with fragile healthcare systems, the effect of war is likely to be much worse than it would be in more developed countries. The presence of COVID-19 will also likely exacerbate the war’s impact. This study set out to determine the effect of armed conflict and the COVID-19 pandemic on health service utilization at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, in the Tigray region of Ethiopia.MethodsAn interrupted time-series study design was used to analyze patient visits over forty-eight consecutive months (from July 2017 to June 2021) at inpatient, outpatient, and emergency departments. Data were analyzed using segmented regression analysis with a defined outcome of level and trend changes in the number of patient visits. In addition, negative binomial regression analysis was also used to estimate the impact of both COVID-19 and the war on patient flow.ResultsThere were 59,935 admissions, 876,533 outpatient visits, and 127,872 emergency room visits. The effect of COVID-19 was seen as soon as the Tigray regional government imposed comprehensive restrictions. Immediately after COVID-19 appeared, all the service areas exhibited a significant monthly drop in visits; [-35.6% (95% CI: -48.2%, -23.1%)] for inpatient, [-60.6% (95% CI: -71.6%, -49.5%)] for outpatient, and [-44.1% (95% CI: -59.5%, -28.7%)] for emergency department visits. The impact of the war became apparent after a lag time of one month. Controlling the effects of time and COVID-19, the war led to a significant fall in inpatient visits [-44.3% (95% CI: -67.2%, -21.5%)], outpatients [-52.1% (95% CI: -82.7%, -21.5%)], and emergency-room attendances [-45.0% (95% CI: -74.8%, -15.2%)]. An upward trend in outpatient flow was observed after the war [1,219.4 (95% CI: 326.1, 2,112.8)].ConclusionsThe present study has clearly indicated that the war and COVID-19 have led to a large reduction in admissions, outpatient attendance, and emergency department visits. The evidence from this study suggests that due to this double catastrophe, thousands of patients could not gain access to healthcare, with probable negative consequences. Governments and organizations should implement measures to buttress the healthcare system to maintain pre-war status of service.

Incidence, associated factors and outcomes of antepartum hemorrhage at Ayder Comprehensive Specialized Hospital and Mekelle General Hospital, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia

Introduction: The leading cause of maternal mortality in world is obstetric hemorrhage. Antepartum hemorrhage (APH) is defined as bleeding from or into the genital tract after 28weeks of pregnancy and before delivery of the baby. Placenta previa and Abruptio placenta are the two major causes of antepartum hemorrhage worldwide including Ethiopia, and contribute significantly to obstetric hemorrhage which is the most common cause of maternal death in developing countries like Ethiopia. Hence, the present study is planned to assess the incidence, associated factors and outcomes of APH at ACSH and Mekelle general hospital. Objective: To assess incidence, associated factors and outcomes of APH at Ayder comprehensive specialized hospital and Mekelle general hospital, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia Methodology: Hospital based prospective cross sectional (observational) was carried out at Ayder comprehensive specialized hospital and Mekelle general hospital over a period of 6 months from February 01, 2018 to July 30, 2018 on all pregnant mothers who were admitted to labor and maternity ward with the diagnosis of antepartum hemorrhage. Results: There were a total of 5368 deliveries in both Ayder comprehensive specialized hospital and Mekelle general hospital over a period of six months between February, 1/2018 to July, 30/2018. During this period, 192 mothers were diagnosed to have APH making incidence of 3.8 %. The major causes of APH were abruptio placenta in 89 (46.5 %) and placenta previa in 64 (33.3 %). Anemia and PPH were the main maternal complications, each accounting for 98(51 %) and 25 (13 %) respectively. There was one maternal death (0.5 %). Of the total 200 newborns, 26 (13 %) were stillbirth and there were 19 (9.5 %) of early neonatal deaths that died in the first seven days of life after admission to NICU making PMR of 22.5 %. Conclusion: APH which is primarily caused by abruptio placenta and placenta previa significantly affects the maternal and perinatal outcomes ACSH and MGH compared to reports from other countries. Maternal address out of Mekelle, severe maternal anemia, and abruptio placenta are predictors of increased perinatal mortality.