East Ethiopia Research Articles

Patient safety culture and associated factors among health care workers in south Wollo zone public hospitals, north east Ethiopia

BackgroundThe importance of patient safety and the development of safety cultures to protect patients from harm have gradually gained attention in quality improvement efforts. These initiatives play a significant role in ensuring patient safety and have an impact on healthcare outcomes. Even though health interventions are intended to benefit the public, there is an inevitable risk that adverse events will occur owing to the complex combination of processes, technologies, and human interactions. While there is a substantial body of evidence regarding risks in hospitals; however, information about adverse events occurring in healthcare settings, such as physicians’ offices, nursing homes, pharmacies, and patients’ homes, is not well documented. This research was aimed to assess the patient safety culture and identify associated factors among healthcare workers in public hospitals. MethodA facility-based cross-sectional study using quantitative and qualitative methods was conducted from May to June 2021 in public hospitals in the South Wollo Zone. Quantitative data was collected using a self-administered questionnaire, while qualitative data was analyzed through in-depth interviews. The collected data was analyzed using Epi-data 4.6, SPSS version 25, and thematically for organizational and healthcare worker-related factors. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted, estimating the AOR and 95 % CI, with significance set at a P-value of less than 0.05. ResultsThe overall level of positive patient safety culture was 50.1 % (95 % CI: 49, 50.9). Age 30–34 years (AOR = 0.24, 95 % CI: 0.10–0.61), work experience >= 11 (AOR = 0.07, 95 % CI: 0.02, 0.32), education level as diploma (AOR = 0.14, 95 % CI: 0.32, 0.65), training (AOR = 4.17, 95 % CI: 2.06, 8.44), working units in OR (AOR = 4.54, 95 % CI: 1.10, 18.68), and working units in emergency (AOR = 4.05, 95 % CI: 1.29, 12.69) were factors significantly associated with the patient safety culture. The in-depth interviews indicated that training, continuous professional development, level of education, and teamwork are crucial for fostering a positive patient culture. ConclusionThe overall level of a positive patient safety culture was high. Age, work experience, education level, training, and working units significantly influenced the patient safety culture. Healthcare managers should consider patient safety culture a top priority.

Utilization of continuous professional development among health professionals in East Ethiopia: a multi-health facility-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundHealthcare workers must maintain their knowledge, attitude, and skills regarding the most recent technology and competencies to deliver quality health care. The Ministry of Health, Ethiopia developed guidelines and directives for the utilization of continuous professional development programs. However, there is limited evidence on utilization and barriers to utilization in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the utilization and barriers to the utilization of continuous professional development among health professionals working in health facilities in eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA health facility-based cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among 731 healthcare professionals from September 01, 2022, and October 30, 2022. A multistage sampling technique was utilized. A simple random sampling technique selected health facilities and study participants. A self-administered questionnaire developed from national continuous professional development guidelines was disseminated to healthcare professionals working in the selected forty health centers and four hospitals. STATA statistical package version 14 was used for data analysis. A descriptive summary was used to summarize the variables. A logistic regression model was used to assess the association between independent variables and the outcome variable. Adjusted odds ratios along with 95% CIs were estimated to assess the strength of the association, and a p-value < 0.05 was used to declare the level of statistical significance in the analysis.ResultsContinuous professional development utilization was determined for 731 healthcare professionals, of whom 241 (32.97%) [(95% CI: (29.55, 36.38)] had utilized continuous professional development. Lack of continuous professional development knowledge AOR 0.23 [(95% CI: 0.14, 0.37)], being female AOR 0.58 [(95% CI: 0.39, 0.86)], lack of internet access AOR 0.62 [(95% CI: 0.43, 0.89)], greater than 20 km distance from main road AOR 0.58 [(95% CI: 0.37, 0.91)], not heard importance of continuous educational units AOR 0.45 [(95% CI: 0.31, 0.65)], and poor perceived need of continuous professional development AOR 0.61 [(95% CI: 0.38, 0.97)], had a negative statistically significant association with the utilization of continuous professional development.ConclusionThe utilization of continuous professional development in the study area was low. Health sectors and stakeholders working on continuous professional development programs are required to focus on developing strategies for knowledge creation, female health workers, and access to the internet, remote areas, information on the importance of continuous educational units, and the variety of needs of professionals for continuous professional development implementation.

Pre-lacteal feeding practice and its associated factors among mothers with children under the age of two years in Dubti town, Afar region, North East Ethiopia: a community based mixed study design.

Pre-lacteal feeding prevents the early initiation of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding. It is understudied in Afar, a pastoral region in northeast Ethiopia. The study assessed the prevalence of pre-lacteal feeding practice and its associated factors among mothers with children under the age of two years in Dubti, North East Ethiopia. A community-based mixed-study design was employed. A systematic sampling technique was used to recruit 370 study participants for the quantitative study, while purposive sampling was used to select 17 study participants for the qualitative study. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the association between independent variables and dependent variable. The results of logistic regression analysis were presented as an odd ratio with a 95% CI. A P-value <0.05 was used as a cutoff point to determine statistical significance. The qualitative data were analyzed using a thematic approach. Pre-lacteal feeding was practiced by 36% of mothers. Afar ethnicity (AOR = 2.5, 95% CI: 1.2-5.1), an extended family size (≥5) (AOR = 1.73, 95% CI: 1.02-2.9), a birth interval of less than 2 years (AOR = 2.77, 95% CI: 1.59-4.82), the first birth order of an indexed child (AOR = 3.87, 95% CI: 2.14-7.0), male-indexed children (AOR = 2.95, 95% CI: 1.67-5.2), and no antenatal care visits (AOR = 2.67, 95% CI: 1.67), or once or twice antenatal visits were significantly associated with pre-lacteal feeding practice. Breastfeeding counseling (AOR = 0.38, 95% CI: 0.2-0.7) and delivery at a health institution (AOR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.17-0.55) were protective factors of pre-lacteal feeding practice. The most common pre-lacteal foods were dairy products, water, and certain plant species. Cultural beliefs are the main reason for practicing these pre-lacteal feedings. A significant number of study participants practiced prelacteal feeding. A public health campaign emphasizing the importance of antenatal care follow-ups should be initiated. Breastfeeding counseling and delivery in a health facility should also be strengthened. Community health education about the disadvantages of pre-lacteal feeding practices should be provided to reduce traditional beliefs.

Quality of life and associated factors among patients with cancer receiving chemotherapy at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, North-East Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study.

Cancer is a major public health problem around the world. Cancer by itself and its treatment modalities affect the quality of life (QoL) of patients with it. However, there were a paucity of studies about the QoL of patients receiving chemotherapeutic treatment in Ethiopia. This study was aimed at addressing such a gap. Accordingly, we investigated QoL and associated factors among cancer patients receiving chemotherapy at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (DCSH), North East Ethiopia, in 2023. We employed a cross-sectional study from April 1 to May 30, 2023. The data was collected using the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core QoL Questionnaire, version 3.0 (EORTC QLQ-C30). The data was entered and cleaned using EpiData version 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27 for analysis. The association between the dependent and independent variables was determined using Odds Ratios (ORs) at a p value < 0.05 with a 95% CI. Data was collected from 394 patients. Their mean summary QoL score was 36.3 ± 9.0. About 39.3% demonstrated a good QoL summary score, whereas 60.7% were impacted by symptoms. A good functional QoL score was observed in 42.6% of the participants. About 54.8% and 31.7% reported good overall health status and good overall QoL, respectively. The most impacted functional domain was social functioning, affecting 64.5% of participants. The most common symptom was diarrhea, affecting 65.5% of the participants. Secondary school education level (Adjusted Odds Ratio-AOR = 3.16, 95% CI: 1.14-8.81), diploma and above education level (AOR = 4.90, 95% CI: 1.29-18.62), and urban residency (AOR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.07-2.82) had a significant positive association with QoL, while being a civil servant (AOR = 0.13, 95% CI: 0.04-0.49), having stage III cancer (AOR = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.05-0.39), and stage IV cancer (AOR = 0.16, 95% 0.06-0.44) had a significant negative association with it. The QoL for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy was significantly low and associated with their level of education, occupational status, area of residence, and stage of cancer. Incorporating psychosocial support is thus crucial in their treatment plans.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Risk Factors Among Secondary School Students in Wonji Shoa, Adama District, East Shoa Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) remain a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality globally, particularly in developing countries such as Ethiopia. Periodic assessments of IPI prevalence are essential prerequisite for effective control measures. Therefore, this cross‐sectional study is aimed at determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infections and associated risk factors among schoolchildren at Wonji Shoa Secondary School, East Shoa Zone, Adama district, Oromia region, Ethiopia, between January and June 2022. A simple random stratified sampling technique was employed to select participants. Sociodemographic and risk factor data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Stool samples were examined to identify parasites. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests, and logistic regression were conducted to assess associations between variables and then the strength of the association. A p value &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Of the 403 selected students, 330 completed the study that makes 81.89% response success. The overall IPI prevalence was 16.66% (55/330), with a higher prevalence among males (60%, 33/55) than females (40%, 22/55). Five parasite species were identified: two protozoa (Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia) with a combined prevalence of 9.70% (32/330) and three helminths (Ascaris lumbricoides, Hymenolepis nana, and Taenia spp.) with a combined prevalence of 6.97% (23/330). Cysts were detected in 62.5% of E. histolytica cases (15/24), and eggs were detected in 76.92% of A. lumbricoides cases (10/13). The study revealed a substantial IPI prevalence (16.66%) among the students. This finding underscores the need for effective prevention and control strategies. The predominance of parasitic infections among males is notable requiring further investigation of the factors. The identification of multiple parasite species indicates a complex epidemiological scenario. The presence of protozoan cysts and helminthic eggs highlights the potential for fecal‐oral transmission and the importance of improved sanitation and hygiene practices.

Prevalence of typhoid fever and its associated factors among febrile patients visiting Arerti Primary Hospital, Amhara Region, north east Ethiopia.

Typhoid fever is one of the major public health concerns in developing countries, including Ethiopia. Understanding the burden and factors contributing to the transmission and development of the disease is crucial to applying appropriate preventive and therapeutic interventions. To assess the prevalence of typhoid fever and its associated factors among febrile patients visiting Arerti Primary Hospital from 1 March to 30 May 2022. A facility-based cross-sectional study was employed among 326 febrile patients visiting Arerti Primary Hospital for health services. The data were collected using laboratory procedures (widal test) and a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data were entered using Epi Data version 3.1 and analyzed by SPSS version 25. Logistic regression was used to determine associations between variables. P-value < 0.05 and adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval were used to measure the presence and strength of associations. In this study, of the total 317 cases that participated, the majority (64.4%) of them were males with age ranges from 13 to 63 years. The overall prevalence of positive antigen tests for typhoid infection was 30.0% (95% CI: 25.0%-35.3%). About 66.9% of the study participants had good knowledge, 75.7% had favorable perception, and 42.3% had good infection prevention practice. Being unemployed [AOR = 7.57, 95% CI (1.98, 28.93)], being a farmer [AOR = 2.73, 95% CI (1.01, 7.41)], and having a body mass index (BMI) below 18.5 kg/m2 [AOR = 5.12, 95%CI (2.45, 10.68)] were significantly associated with typhoid fever infection. The prevalence of typhoid fever among febrile patients was high. Typhoid fever infection was significantly associated with occupational status (being unemployed and being a farmer) and lower BMI. The level of knowledge, perception, and practice of typhoid fever infection prevention were found inadequate. Therefore, behavioral change interventions are needed at the community level.

Substance Abuse and Its Association with Adherence to ART Drugs Among HIV-positive Pregnant Women at Selected Hospitals of East Ethiopia

Background: Substance abuse among Human Immune Deficiency Virus-positive patients causes depression, carelessness, and anxiety, which in common results in a decrease in adherence to antiretroviral treatment. The purpose of the study is to assess the prevalence of substance abuse and its association with adherence to ART drugs.&#x0D; Methods: The current study was conducted at three hospitals (Hiwot Fana Comprehensive University Hospital, Dillchora Hospital, and Jugal Hospital) located in East Ethiopia. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the association of independent variables with the dependent variables.&#x0D; Results: In this study, 119 HIV-positive pregnant patients were included. While 74.8% of the patients were adherent to their medication, the remaining 25.2% were nonadherent. The major reasons for nonadherence to ART medications prescribed were getting better (73.3%) and finishing medication (16.7%). Moreover, 96 (80.7%) respondents abused alcohol while 36 (30.3%) and 75 (35.6%) abused opioids and cigarette smoking, respectively. Mothers who abused alcohol were 38.1 times more likely to be nonadherent to ART medications for PMTCT [AOR = 38.1% CI: 21.47–56.54] compared to their counterparts. Additionally, mothers who abuse opioids were 19 times more likely to be nonadherent to ART treatment medication [AOR = 19, 95% CI: 2.46– 19.46] than their counterparts. Furthermore, mothers who smoked cigarettes were 43.1 more likely to be nonadherent [AOR = 43.19, 95% CI: 8.42–187.84] than nonsmokers. Unemployment was also found to be associated with nonadherence to ART medication to PMTCT of HIV [AOR = 5.4, 95% CI: 2.8–5.7]. Smoking of marijuana/cannabis/hashish was not significantly associated with nonadherence to ART [AOR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.084–0.355].&#x0D; Conclusion: Abuse of alcohol, cigarette smoking, abuse of opioids, and joblessness were found to be significantly associated with nonadherence to ART medications prescribed to PMCT of HIV. Wheareas, smoking of marijuana/cannabis/hashish was not significantly associated with nonadherence to ART medications.&#x0D;

Post-traumatic stress disorder and its associated factors among war-affected residents in Woldia town, North East Ethiopia, 2022; community based cross-sectional study.

Post-traumatic stress disorder is marked by increased stress and anxiety following exposure to a traumatic or stressful event. Events of conflict and war-related traumas were commonly reported situations and people who have undergone through have a higher tendency to develop PTSD Woldia town had been under a serious military surge and a five-month encroachment, so the expected destruction in property, impact on physical, social and mental health of civilians was potentially high. More importantly, there is no study that investigated the significance of association between war-related traumatic events and post-traumatic stress disorder in the area. so this study aims to assess prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder and its associated factors among war-affected residents in Woldia town, North East Ethiopia, 2022. A community-based cross-sectional study design was employed by using a multi-stage systematic random sampling technique from May-15 to June-15/2022. A total of 609 participants were enrolled. PTSD was measured by the post-traumatic stress disorder checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5). Data were entered by Epi data version 4.6.0.2 and analyzed using STATA version 14. Bivariable and Multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify associated factors to PTSD and P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of PTSD was 56.28%. Destruction/looting of property (AOR = 1.6,95%CI,1.11-2.47), murder/injury of family member (AOR = 2.1,95% CI,1.37-3.22), witness of murder of family member/others (AOR = 1.6,95% CI,1.01-2.71), unlawful imprisonment (AOR = 1.7, 95%CI, 1.06-2.74), depression (AOR = 2, 95%CI, 1.37-2.93), anxiety (AOR = 3.3, 95%CI,2.26-4.97), experience trauma on themselves (AOR = 2.0,95%CI,1.22-3.58), poor (AOR = 3.1,95%CI,1.60-6.04) and moderate (AOR = 3.0, 95%CI, 1.56-5.87) social support were statistically associated with PTSD at a p-value < 0.05. The study reveals that the prevalence of PTSD was high in Woldia town following an armed conflict between Federal Government and Tigray forces. Destruction/looting of property, murder/injury of family, witness murder of family/others, unlawful imprisonment, depression, anxiety, experience on themselves, poor and moderate social support were statistically associated with PTSD. Hence, encourage organization working on mental health, routine patient assessment with a history of trauma, facilitating means to support affected residents is recommended.

Utilization of cervical cancer screening service among female health workforces in public health institutions in south east Ethiopia, a cross-sectional study

IntroductionGlobally, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer, accounting for 6.6%of all female cancers, and ranks as the second leading cause of female cancer deaths. Cervical cancer can be avoided if asymptomatic women are screened for precancerous cervical lesions and treated before they progress to invasive disease. Female health workforces are expected to be in a better position to be motivated and initiate society towards the screening by being role models, but there have been few studies done in Ethiopia to assess the utilization of cervical cancer screening services and its associated factors among female health workforces. ObjectiveTo assess utilization of cervical cancer screening service and associated factors among female health workforces in public health institutions Bale zone, Sothern Ethiopia. MethodsAn institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 266 female health workforces from May 1 st to May 30th, 2021 using a self-administered questionnaire. Data was entered on Epi data 3.1 software and exported to Statistical package for social science (SPSS) software version 25 for analysis. Logistic regression was used to identify the independent predictors of cervical cancer screening. Statistical significance for the multivariable logistic regression analysis was set at p < 0.05. ResultOut of the total sample size (n = 266), 258 have responded to the questionnaire completely, making the response rate 97 %. The utilization of cervical cancer screening services was 38 (14.7 %). There were significant associations between working in hospitals with an adjusted odd ratio (AOR [95 % CI] = 4.814 [1.774–13.06]) and serving 7 years and above [95 % 44 CI = 5.988 [2.096–17.1]) and utilization of cervical cancer screening services. Conclusionand recommendations: The proportion of utilization of cervical cancer screening services among female health workforces in Bale Zone was very low. Working in hospitals and prolonged work experience were independent predictors of the utilization of cervical cancer screening services. Sustaining awareness creation and sensitization of screening through training and experience sharing should be given broad emphasis for female health workforces to increase their utilization of screening services.

Awareness and willingness to use oral HIV self-test and associated factor among Wollo University Health Science student in North East Ethiopia, 2023

Awareness and willingness to use oral HIV self-test and associated factor among Wollo University Health Science student in North East Ethiopia, 2023

Lived Experience of People with Type 1 Diabetes in North East Ethiopia; Psycho-Social and Economical Perspective, a Phenomenological Study.

To explore lived experience of people with type 1 diabetes in North East Ethiopia; psycho-social and economical perspective. A descriptive phenomenological study was conducted to explore the lived experience of people with type 1 diabetes in North East Ethiopia; psycho-social and economical perspective from March 02 to March 25, 2020. A heterogeneous purposive sample method was used to choose the participants. The lead investigator used an in-depth interview to collect data, using an audio recorder and an interview guide. The data were analysed using the thematic analysis method. Atlas. ti software version 7 was used to facilitate the data analysis process. A total of 13 participants were enrolled in this study. The participants age range were 14 to 70 years and their duration of diabetes since diagnosis were from 8 months to 16 years. The three interconnected themes that emerged from the analysis are: (1) psychological experience with two sub-themes (psychological problems due to diabetes including fear and coping strategies for psychological problems), (2) social experience, which has five categories (influence on intimate relationships, influence on social participation, disclosure status, social isolation and stigma, social support, and influence on education); and (3) economic experience. Fear was one of the psychological experiences felt by people with type 1 diabetes. Although type 1 diabetes is a biomedical problem, it is also accompanied by other psychological and socio-economic issues, that require a holistic approach to address it. So, health professionals should strengthen health information dissemination programs.

Magnitude of erectile dysfunction and associated factors among adult diabetic men on follow-up at Goba and Robe hospitals, Bale Zone, South East Ethiopia: hospital-based cross-sectional study

PurposeErectile dysfunction is defined as the inability to achieve and/or maintain an erection of sufficient rigidity and duration to permit satisfactory sexual performance. The purpose of this study is to assess the prevalence of erectile dysfunction and associated factors among adult diabetic men on follow-up at Goba and Robe hospitals, Bale Zone, South East Ethiopia,2022.MethodsHospital-based cross-sectional study design was used among 420 adult diabetic men from March 1 to April 30 using a systematic random sampling technique. An international index of erectile function questionnaire containing five questions was used to assess the outcome variable. The data were entered, edited, and coded using Epidata version 4.6 and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analysis were performed to identify factors associated with erectile dysfunction. Adjusted odds ratios with their corresponding 95% confidence interval were computed to estimate the strength of association. Statistical significance was declared at p-value < 0.05.ResultsThe prevalence of erectile dysfunction was found to be 354 (84.3%). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that erectile dysfunction is significantly associated with old age (AOR = 12.39, 95% CI:5.10–30.08), inadequate physical activity (AOR = 4.15, 95% CI:1.33–12.97), and being rich (AOR = 2.62, 95% CI = 1.21–5.66).ConclusionThe prevalence of erectile dysfunction in this study population is nearly nine out of ten. Age, inadequate physical activity, and wealth index were independent predictors of erectile dysfunction. Assessment and management of erectile dysfunction in diabetic clinics should be routine medical care.

Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used To Treat Livestock Ailments, In Dallol Manna District, Bale Zone, Oromia Regional State, South East Ethiopia

Historical information on the use of medicinal plants is in danger of extinction due to different changes in different parts of the world, including Ethiopia. This study, carried out in the DallomAna, Oromia regions of Ethiopia, aims at the ethnobotanical analysis of medicinal plants used in the treatment of animal diseases. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with the information sources selected. Analysis of ethnobotanical data using tools such as the Consensus Consent Factor (ICF) preference ranking, ranking matrix, and calculating the degree of fidelity. In Dallomanna Region reported all 68 medicinal plant species used to treat veterinary diseases. The most common family is Fabaceae (7 spp.), followed by Euphorbiaceous (5 spp.), Asteraceae (5 spp.) Solanaceae (4 spp.). For the preparation of drugs for the treatment of livestock diseases, plants are generally used as the root, followed by leaves, seeds and stems. All of the medicine is made and used immediately, and some of it is boiled and dried for use. In addition, the most common way of route of administration for treatment animal diseases in the study area is oral, followed by topical application and nasal .The highest consensus criteria (ICF) values were recorded in ophthalmology, followed by dermatology. Most species have been reported for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, followed by species for the treatment of skin diseases and fever. Ten participants compared nine herbs used to treat veterinary diseases to see how they ranked. This was followed by Hagenia Abyssinia in first place, then Zingier ofcinale and Embelia schimperi in third place. Nicotiana tabacum, Phyllanthus ovalifolius, Ruta chalepensis Santalum album followed Hagenia abyssinica, which achieved the highest value among traditional oyster medicinal plants. The main threats to veterinary medicinal plants were overharvesting of available species, agricultural land expansion, and less attention to traditional medicine due to modernization.

Prevalence of active trachoma infection and associated factors post-war resettled population in raya kobo districts, North East Ethiopia:A community-based cross-sectional study in 2022.

Active trachoma infection poses a serious threat to public health, particularly for those who live in an unprivileged area and has practiced open-field defecation. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of active trachoma infection and associated factors in the post-war resettled population in Raya Kobo district, North East Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study in 2022. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 602 participants randomly selected in 14 slum villages in Raya Kobo from February 16th to March 30th, 2023. After the data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and entered into Epi-data version 3.2. The study participants were chosen using a two-stage sampling process. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors for active trachoma infection. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were claimed for the strength of association at p < 0.05. Overall, 602 (99.9%) study participants were included in the final analysis. At the end of the study period, 126 (20.9) participants developed active trachoma infection. On multivariable analysis, were aged ≥45 years (AOR = 7.9, 95% CI = 2.4-25.3), history of eye infection (AOR = 3.7, 95%CI = 2.4-10.4, p = 0.001), were poor wealth index (AOR = 9.2, 95%CI = 2.7-23.7), having separated kitchen (AOR = 4.05, 95%CI = 1.86-8.86), living with animals (AOR = 5.92, 95%CI = 2.31-14.7) and having got administration of mass-drug (AOR = 8.9, 95% CI = 2.36-33.6) were significant risk factors for active trachoma infection. Whereas, face washing practice regularly (AOR = 0.23, 95%CI = 0.127-0.43), and toilet availability (AOR = 0.35, 95%CI = 0.20-0.97) were preventive factors for active trachoma infection. A significant prevalence of active trachoma infection was reported in the area as compared with previous findings and urgent clinical intervention, and the WHO critical SAFE strategies (surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness, and environmental improvement) implementation is highly needed in the area. In addition, healthcare providers should focus on information dissemination on proper latrine utilization, and washing the face regularly to prevent active trachoma infection is highly recommended.

Low Back Pain and Its Risk Factors Among Nurses Working in East Bale, Bale, and West Arsi Zone Government Hospitals, Oromia Region, South East Ethiopia, 2021 -Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study.

Hospital nursing staff are particularly susceptible to low back pain (LBP) a widespread health issue worldwide. There was little available data on the prevalence of LBP and risk factors related to it in this population. Assessed the prevalence of LBP and risk factors in nurses working in South-East Ethiopia's Oromia region in the East Bale, Bale, and West Arsi zone government hospitals. A cross-sectional study was carried out within an institution in the East Bale, Bale, and West Arsi zone government hospitals; 440 nurses were chosen to use a process of systematic random sampling, and data was gathered between June 1 and July 30, 2021. Using pre-designed questionnaires, I interrogated participants. After being verified as complete, the gathered data was entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Bi variate and multivariate logistic regressions with 95% confidence intervals and crude and adjusted odd ratios were generated and interpreted as necessary. To deem a result statistically significant, a p-value of 0.05 or lower was required. A total of 427 nurses engaged in the interview out of the 440 participants that wanted to take part in the study, yielding a response rate of 97.1%. Low back pain was 42.6% more common over a year [95% CI: (0.384, 0.476)]. According to the multivariate analysis, females [AOR = 1.791; 95% CI: (1.121, 2.861)], age higher than forty [AOR=2.388, 95% CI: (1.315, 4.337)], age grouped 31-40 years [(AOR=2.064, 95% CI: 1.233, 3.455)], divorced [(AOR=10.288, 95% CI: (3.063, 34.553)], married [(AOR=1.676 (1.675, 16.999)]. The study suggests that implementing preventive measures and offering ergonomic training can help reduce LBP among nurses in these hospitals.

Youths with disabilities: Utilization and predictors of Youths Friendly Reproductive Health Services in Dessie City Administration, North East Ethiopia, 2021: A cross‐sectional study

AbstractBackground and AimsYounger generations with disabilities are more likely to be affected and have severe difficulties receiving specific services. Ethiopia is no exception to the global trend of poverty‐stricken countries with a higher frequency of illness or disability. This study aimed to assess the utilization of Youths Friendly Reproductive Health Services (YFRHS) and predictors among youths with disabilities in Dessie City, North East, Ethiopia, 2021.MethodsA community‐based, cross‐sectional study was conducted. Data were collected from the literature using questionnaires. Bivariable analysis was performed for each independent variable with a p &lt; 0.25 on the data imported to multivariate logistic regression analysis. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) at a 5% level of significance has measured the strength of association between utilization of youth‐friendly reproductive services among disabilities and independent variables.ResultsOf 423 participants, 91% responded. About 42% of participants had used YFRHS. Youths in the age group of 20–24 years were 2.8 times more likely to use such services than 15–19‐year‐olds (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: [1.04, 7.44]). Disabled youths living alone were 3.6 times more likely to use the services than those with parents (AOR = 3.6, 95% CI: [1.36, 9.35]). Youths with a visual impairment were 80% less likely to use the services than youths with hearing impairments (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI: [0.18, 0.30]), and disabled youths with poor knowledge were 90% less likely to use the services than participants with good knowledge (AOR = 0.1, 95% CI: [0.01, 0.61]) were statistically significant.ConclusionThe utilization of YFRHS among youths with disabilities in Dessie Town was low. Participants aged 20–24 years, who lived alone, had visual impairment, and had poor knowledge, were found to be significantly associated.

Delay in receiving emergency obstetric care and associated factors among mothers who gave birth in public hospitals of Bale and East Bale zones, Oromia region, South East Ethiopia: Facility based cross-sectional study

IntroductionDelays in timely seeking care, failure to reach health institutions and receiving ineffective health care cause maternal mortality in developing countries. The three maternal delay was used to identify contributing factors to maternal death. There was limited data on the maternal delay in receiving emergency obstetric care services in the study area. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the magnitude of delay in receiving emergency obstetric care and associated factors among postnatal mothers in the Bale and east Bale zones. MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 postnatal women from April 6 to May 6, 2022. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select study participants. The data were collected electronically using an Open Data Kit and exported to SPSS window version 25 for cleaning and analysis. Both bivariate and multivariable analyses were done by using a binary logistic regression model to identify factors associated with delay in receiving emergency obstetric care services. Statistical significance was declared at P-value < 0.05. ResultsIn this study, the magnitude of delay in receiving institutional delivery service utilization was 34.6% with [95% CI (30.0_39.5)]. Delay one was found to be statistically associated with maternal delay in receiving institutional delivery services (AOR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.21, 3.53). Mothers with low monthly income had shown higher odds of delay (AOR = 1.79; 95% CI: 1.03, 3.10). Moreover, the delay in receiving emergency obstetric care was 89% less likely among mothers who had not been referred multiple times than among those who had been referred many times (AOR = 0.10; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.18). ConclusionThis study showed that the magnitude of the delay in receiving the utilization of emergency obstetric care services in the study area was high. Factors such as delay one, average monthly income and multiple referrals of mothers were found significant factors for delay in receiving care. Therefore, it is important to reduce delay in receiving institutional delivery by working on promoting road accessibility, transport mechanisms and building health education on key danger signs.

Emergence of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase and Carbapenemase Producing Gram Negative Non-Fermenters at Selected Hospitals of Northeast Ethiopia: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study.

The emergence and spread of extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESβLs) and carbapenemase (CP) producing gram negative non-fermenters are becoming a serious public health threat globally. Infections caused by these pathogens limit treatment options and contribute to the significant morbidity and mortality. Thus, to reduce their spread, early detection of these superbugs is very crucial. This study therefore aimed to assess the prevalence of ESβLs and CP producing gram negative non-fermenters at selected hospitals of North East Ethiopia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to June 2021. Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) were identified using standard bacteriological techniques. ESβL and CP production were detected by combined disk diffusion and modified carbapenem inhibitory methods, respectively. Data were collected via face-to-face interview and patient card review. Chi-squared and Fisher's exact tests were calculated and p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 384 patients participated in this study. Overall, 30 (7.8%) patients had positive culture for A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa. The prevalence of A. baumannii was 20 (5.2%) and that of P. aeruginosa was 10 (2.6%). From the overall isolates, 16 (53.3%) were ESβL and the proportion of carbapenemase production was 4 (13.3%). ESβL production was 8 (40%) in A. baumannii and 8 (80%) in P. aeruginosa isolates. ESβL production infections were significantly associated with hospitalization (p=0.004). Intravenous catheterization, hospitalization, and surgery had significant association with ESβL production (p<0.005). All isolates of A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa were MDR. ESβL and carbapenemase production among A. baumannii and P. aeruginosa were high in the selected hospitals. The treatment of such resistant infectious agents should be guided by antimicrobial susceptibility test in a study setting. Thus, restricted and wise use of antibiotics is highly recommended to contain the spread of these superbugs. Hospitals should develop infection prevention guidelines to prevent the spread of resistant pathogens in hospitalized patients.

Assessment of Malaria Related Anemia and Underweight in Under-Five Age Children in Estie Woreda, South Gondar Zone of Amhara Region, South East Ethiopia

Background: Malaria remains a challenging health problem in malaria endemic regions. Malaria associated anemia represent a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa. Both, anemia (reduced in hemoglobin level) and underweight in terms of (weight-for-age) was a critical problem of malaria directly or indirectly. The objective of this study was to assess malaria related anemia and malaria related underweight among under-five years age children in Arushe wanqat kebele. Children’s were selected through systematic random sampling technique to select the first children from new vital event registration master list of Arushe wanqat kebele, and then totally 364 children were included. Parasitological, hematological and anthropometric measurements were conducted. Questionnaire survey was also used in order to assess malaria related anemia and weight on children whose age were below five years. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 20 and was presented in frequency, table, pie chart, bar graph and percentage form. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), correlation(r), and Chi-square (X2) tests were used to verify the possible association between Plasmodiums pecies, anemia, and underweight at different age (in months). Results: Prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum accounted for 101(27.8%), Plasmodium vivax accounted for 84(23.1%), and mixed infection (both P. falciparum and P. vivax) also accounted for 14(3.8%). The correlation (r) between Plasmodium species and hemoglobin concentration (r = 0.628; p = 0.000); Plasmodium species and weight measure (r = 0.77; p = 0.000). The prevalence of malaria related anemia and underweight were 70.4% and 51.3%, respectively. Plasmodium falciparum is the most prevalent species and a notorious cause of anemia among children who were less than five years old. Both anemia (reduction of Hb. in g/dl) and underweight have a positive linear relationship. Malaria-related anemia was also more prevalent than malaria-related underweight among children. The result of the study indicates that there was a strong association between malaria and anemia (association is significant between Plasmodium species and hemoglobin concentration; p &lt; 0.05); there is also an association between malaria and weight loss or underweight (association is significant between Plasmodium species and weight-for-age z-score; p &lt; 0.05) at different age groups. Conclusion: The prevalence malaria-related anemia among children in Arushe wanqat kebele was 38.67%.On the other hand, the prevalence of malaria-related weight loss or underweight among children in Arushe wanqat kebele was 28.02%. So, the findings of this study also revealed that malaria remains a public health problem that contributes for anemia and underweight on under five children.

Predictive ability of the Mini Nutritional Assessment short-form (MNA-SF) as compared to serum albumin concentration in the community dwelling elders, Meki, East Ethiopia: Cross-Sectional Validation Study

Background: Various tools have been used to perform nutritional screening and assessment, and the Mini Nutritional Assessment [MNA] is one of the most widely used and recommended tools in the geriatric population. MNA is available in two lengths: long and short. MNA short-forms, on the other hand, have not been evaluated in Ethiopia. As a result, the purpose of this study was to validate MNA short form against serum albumin concentration in Ethiopian elders. Methods: The community based cross-sectional validation study included 176 elderly people who were recruited at random. Those who had limbs amputated, were bedridden, or had an obvious abnormality were not eligible, a known liver and/or kidney disorder. The original MNA questions were translated into Afan Oromo and Amharic. All translated and pretested MNA questionnaires were administered to each participant. Anthropometrics and albumin levels in the blood were determined. Positive predictive value [PPV] and negative predictive values [NPV] were calculated, as well as reliability, validity, sensitivity, and specificity. A receiver-operating characteristic curve [ROC-curve] study for MNA was used to calculate the area under the curve [AUC] and appropriate cut-off value for predicting malnutrition. Result: A strong association between serum albumin concentration score and MNA-short form score Spearman’s rank correlation coefficients of BMI-MNA-SF 0.526, p 0.05 and CC-MNA-SF 0.501, p 0.05. At 95 percent CI, the agreement between the long and short forms of MNA was found to be a weighted kappa of 0.404[0.288, 0.521] for BMI-MNA-SF and 0.426[0.333, 0.519] for CC-MNA-SF. These results show a moderate agreement with serum albumin concentrations. The BMI-MNA-SF and the CC-MNA-SF have a high level of agreement 0.400. [0.322, 0.478]. Furthermore, high power to distinguish two categories using serum albumin concentration as the gold standard and AUC for BMI –MNA-SF 0.789 [0.722-0.855] and 0.791 [0.726-0.857] for CC-MNA-SF at 95% CI. Diagnostic accuracy for BMI-MNA-SF showed that 37.1% sensitivity, 90.8% specificity, 58.5% PPV, and 80.5% NPV. Similarly, sensitivity 77.5%, specificity of 64.4% PPV 73.7%, and 69.0%, NPV for CC-MNA-SF. Total Diagnostic accuracy for BMI-MNA-SF 63.64%, and 71.02% for CC-MNA-SF. Conclusion: Both types of MNA-SF have been shown to be effective screening tools as compared to serum albumin concentration levels in the elders in Meki town, East Ethiopia.