Hospital-based Cross-sectional Study Research Articles

Colorectal Polyps among Sudanese Patients: A Single-Center Experience (Eyes Study)

Introduction: A gastrointestinal polyp is an abnormal protrusion from the mucosal surface of the gastrointestinal lumen. The objectives of the present study were to evaluate the clinical features, possible risk factors, endoscopic features, and histopathological patterns of gastrointestinal polyps among adult Sudanese patients. Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional hospital-based study conducted at the Soba University Hospital Department of Endoscopy from March 2017 to March 2020. This study was conducted on patients with gastrointestinal polyps found upon colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy. Results: The incidence of colonic polyps was 11.7% (237/2019). The mean age was 51 ± 18 years, and the male-to-female ratio was 1.5:1. The indications for colonoscopy were bleeding per rectum (28.7%; n=68), chronic constipation (16.5%; n=39), a change in bowel habits (11%; n=26), anaemia (8.8%; n=20), melena (3.8%; n=9), diarrhoea (3.8%; n=9%) and surveillance (20%; n=48%). A family history of cancer was directly correlated with the size of the colon polyp on endoscopy and the grade of dysplasia on histopathology (p values=0.01 and 0.02, respectively). The use of NSAIDs was significantly correlated with the site of colonic polyps, while no significant correlation was found with smoking status, alcohol consumption, or family history of polyps (p value=0.02). The main site of polyps for colonic polyps was the left colon (67.4%). Histopathology reports were available for 65.4% (n=155) of patients with polyps. The predominant histopathological type in the lower gastrointestinal tract was adenomatous in 46.4% (n=72) of patients. Conclusion: The frequency of colonic polyps was 11.7%. The main presentation for colonic polyps was bleeding per rectum. A small size < 0.5 cm and a sessile shape were the dominant endoscopic features of the lower gastrointestinal polyps. However, adenomatous polyps were the most common histopathological type of polyp among ......

Exploring Symphysio-Fundal Height and Abdominal Girth in Predicting Fetal Weight: Lessons from Bugando Medical Centre, Mwanza, Tanzania

Background: Estimating fetal weight plays a crucial role in decision-making, particularly in high-risk pregnancies when determining the timing and method of delivery. In resource-limited settings where ultrasound availability is limited, Symphysio-Fundal Height and Abdominal Girth (clinical method) have been utilized as a substitute for predicting fetal weight. However, the accuracy of this clinical method has not been assessed locally. This study seeks to evaluate the precision of clinical method in estimating fetal weight and its correlation with the actual birth weight at Bugando Medical Centre. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Lake Zone area of Tanzania at Bugando Medical Centre. The study conveniently enrolled 400 mothers with singleton pregnancies who were admitted for normal vaginal delivery, elective cesarean section, or induction of labor. Fetal weight was estimated using clinical methods and compared with the birth weight at delivery. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, employing descriptive statistics such as frequency, mean, and standard deviation. The relationship between estimated fetal weight, and birth weight were examined using the Chi-square and Pearson's correlation coefficient. A P-value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The study participants had an average age of 29.13 years (± 5.346). Our analysis revealed that the mean estimated fetal weight slightly exceeded the actual birth weight, with values of 3495 grams and 3250 grams, respectively. Notably, this difference was statistically significant with a P-value < 0.001, indicating the clinical method's tendency to overestimate fetal weight. Furthermore, the clinical method showed a strong positive correlation with actual birth weight (correlation coefficient = 0.7309, p-value < 0.001), demonstrating its reliability in fetal weight estimation. The positive linear correlation between clinical fetal weight ...........

Preterm Birth and Its Associated Factors among Mothers Delivered at Lira Regional Referral Hospital in Lira District

This study aimed to assess the prevalence of preterm birth and its associated factors among mothers delivered at Lira Regional Referral Hospital in Lira District in 2022. A hospital-based cross-sectional study and non-probability systematic sampling technique were employed to assess the prevalence of preterm birth and its associated factors among mothers delivered at Lira Regional Referral Hospital between August 2022 and November 2022. The normative sample was N-325; however, only 278 were analysed. Preterm birth and its associated factors were measured using a face-to-face pre-test interview, and additional data was extracted from medical records, an antenatal care chart, and a baby chart. Data was collected, coded, sorted, and processed using manual compilation and analysed using SPSS Version 25. Results showed that the prevalence of preterm birth was at 14%, mid-upper arm circumference p>0.000, baby delivered p>0.002, birth weight p>0.000, antenatal care number of times attended p>0.001, urinary tract infection p>0.000, premature rupture of membrane p>0.000, antepartum haemorrhage p>0.000, and pregnancy-induced hypertension p>0.000 were significantly associated with preterm birth. Preterm birth was more likely to occur in mothers who didn’t attend ANC and was higher in mothers who got PROM, UTI, APH, and PIH. Early detection of diseases, especially hypertension, hyperemesis gravidarum, and UTI, as well as improving health care quality delivery and carrying out community health education and awareness campaigns, can reduce the prevalence of preterm birth. Keywords: Preterm birth, Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Mothers, Antenatal care, Hypertension.

Blood Pressure Control and Associated Factors among Hypertension Comorbid Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Southeast Ethiopia.

Hypertension is the main contributor to the morbidity and mortality of patients with cardiovascular disease. Even though hypertension is very common in comorbid type 2 diabetic patients, it is frequently overlooked. This study aimed to assess blood pressure control and its associated factors among hypertension comorbid type 2 diabetic patients in Bale Zone public hospitals in Southeast Ethiopia. A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among hypertension comorbid type 2 diabetic patients. The data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire and a review of the medical charts of patients. A simple random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. The bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the association between blood pressure control and its associated factors. Independent variables that showed a P < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis was included in the multivariate analysis. Finally, variables with a P < 0.05 were declared statistically significant factors. The total number of participants in the study was 378. The overall magnitude of uncontrolled hypertension among hypertension comorbid diabetic patients was found to be 82.5% (95% CI: 78.7%, 86.4%). Nonadherence to antihypertensive medication (AOR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.11, 5.39, P = 0.027), duration of hypertension >10 years (AOR = 5.2, 95% CI: 1.27, 21.38, P = 0.022), participants who attended secondary education (AOR = 3.2, 95% CI: 1.18, 8.87, P = 0.023), and being obese (AOR = 4.1, 95% CI: 1.24, 13.49, P = 0.021) were significantly associated with uncontrolled hypertension. Uncontrolled hypertension was found to be high among hypertension comorbid type 2 diabetic patients. Patients' adherence to antihypertensive medication, physical activity, and alcohol abstinence should be maximized. Loss of weight is also crucial, as is the early detection and management of comorbidities.

Corneal endothelial cell density and associated factors among adults at a regional referral hospital in Uganda: a cross-sectional study.

To assess the prevalence of low corneal endothelial cell density and correlates of corneal endothelial cell density among adults attending Mbarara University and Referral Hospital Eye Centre in Uganda. In this hospital-based cross-sectional study, participants 18 years and older, were enrolled. We obtained informed consent, and basic demographic data. We also conducted visual acuity, a detailed slit lamp examination, intra-ocular pressure, corneal diameter, tear-film break-up time, keratometry, A-scan, and pachymetry on all participants. A confocal microscope Heidelberg HRT3 was used to examine the central cornea and to obtain the mean cell density (cells/mm2). To calculate the proportion of low endothelial cell density, descriptive statistics were used, whereas correlates of endothelial cell density were assessed, using linear regression analyses. We evaluated a total of 798 eyes of 404 participants aged between 18 and 90 years (males = 187, females = 217). The average endothelial cell density was 2763.6 cells/mm2, and there was a decrease in endothelial cell density with increasing age, irrespective of gender. There was no significant difference in endothelial cell density between males and females. Increasing age (adjusted coefficient - 10.1, p < 0.001), history of smoking (adjusted coefficient - 439.6, p = 0.004), history of ocular surgery (adjusted coefficient - 168.0, p = 0.023), having dry eye (adjusted coefficient - 136.0, p = 0.051), and having arcus senilis (adjusted coefficient - 132.0, p = 0.08), were correlated with lower endothelial cell density. However, increasing corneal diameter (adjusted coefficient 134.0, p = 0.006), increasing central corneal thickness (adjusted coefficient 1.2, p = 0.058), and increasing axial length (adjusted coefficient 65.8, p = 0.026), were correlated with higher endothelial cell density. We found five eyes (0.63%) from different participants with a low endothelial cell density (< 1000cells/mm2). Our study established baseline normal ranges of ECD in a predominantly black African population, and found that low ECD is rare in our population. The elderly, smokers, and those with past ocular surgery are the most vulnerable. The low prevalence could be due to a lack of reference values for the black African population.

Dyslipidemia and associated factors among adult cardiac patients: a hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study

BackgroundAtherosclerotic vascular diseases are a leading global cause of morbidity and mortality. Dyslipidemia, a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, remains poorly understood among adult cardiac patients in in the study area. This study aims to determine the prevalence of dyslipidemia and identify associated factors in this population.MethodsHospital-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from May to August 2021. A total of 319 participants (153 cardiac cases, 166 healthy controls, aged ≥ 18) were included in the study. Socio-demographic, anthropometric, behavioral, and clinical data were collected using the WHO STEPS survey instrument through systematic sampling. Overnight fasting blood samples were obtained, and serum lipid profiles were analyzed using a COBAS 6000 analyzer. Data were analyzed with SPSS version 20.0, employing bivariable and multivariable logistic regression. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsThe overall prevalence of dyslipidemia, encompassing at least one lipid abnormality, was 80.3% among 256 participants. Among cardiac cases, the prevalence rates were as follows: 72.5% for low HDL-cholesterol, 12.4% for hypercholesterolemia, 9.8% for elevated LDL-cholesterol, and 30.1% for hypertriglyceridemia. In controls, corresponding rates were 69.9%, 9.6%, 7.2%, and 32.5%. Significant factors linked to low HDL- cholesterol were female gender (AOR: 2.8, 95% CI 1.7–4.7) and obesity (AOR: 2.8, 95% CI 1.1–7.5). Abdominal obesity was associated with hypercholesterolemia (AOR: 5.2, 95% CI 1.9–14.3) and elevated LDL-cholesterol (AOR: 5.1, 95% CI 1.6–15.8). High blood pressure, overweight, and abdominal obesity were significantly linked to hypertriglyceridemia (p < 0.05).ConclusionDyslipidemia was high among the study participants. Overweight, obesity, central adiposity, and high blood pressure were significantly associated with dyslipidemia in cardiac patients. This alarms the need for lipid profile assessment for patients periodically, with treatment follow-up to monitor any rising patterns and cardiovascular-related risks.

Prevalence of Malnutrition and Associated Factors among HIV Seropositive Adults on Antiretroviral Therapy at the Regional Hospital, Buea, Cameroon

Introduction: Malnutrition refers to deficiencies, excesses, or imbalances in a person’s intake of energy and/or nutrients and HIV which infects CD4 cells causes immune suppression which can further be worsened by poor nutrition. More than 37.7 million people are living with HIV in the world out of which about 36 million are adults. Aims: The study aimed to determine the prevalence of malnutrition and associated factors among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) seropositive adults on antiretroviral therapy at the HIV care and treatment center of the Buea Regional hospital, Cameroon. Study Design: A Hospital-based Cross sectional study design. Place and duration of study: Buea regional hospital at the HIV care and treatment centre, South West Region of Cameroon between April 2022 to June 2022. Materials and method: We included 139 HIV seropositive individuals (17 men, 177 women age range 26 to 59 years). Nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric and clinical methods. A 24-hour dietary diversity was assessed using a questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity among the participants were 1.4 %, 38.8%, and 24.4% respectively. In the bivariate analysis, sex of the participants (χ2 = 4.715, p = 0.030) and attendance to HIV-related counseling sessions (χ2 = 4.512, p = 0.034) were significantly associated with malnutrition. The mean dietary diversity score of the study respondents was 4.97±1.6 with only 37% of the respondents achieving a minimum dietary diversity. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the odds of those who received HIV-related counselling being malnourished(overweight) was 3.29 times more than those who did not receive HIV-related counselling (AOR=3.29, p=0.036). Conclusions: There is a high burden of overweight and obesity in the HIV population of the Regional Hospital Buea. The only factor independently associated to malnutrition(overweight) was uptake of nutrition related counselling. Majority of the HIV seropositive patients in the Regional Hospital Buea had a poor dietary diversity. Nutritional counseling should be an important part of persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) routine follow-up.

Prevalence and predictors of iron deficiency anaemia among children with sickle cell disease in Dodoma, Tanzania: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundPatients with sickle cell disease (SCD) are prone to iron profile derangements. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) and their predictors among children with SCD aged between 6 months and 14 years. Assessment of the prevalence of IDA and its predictors helps to understand ways of alleviating the magnitude of the problem so as to prevent possible complications such as shortness of breath and chest pain.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional analytical hospital-based study which included 174 patients with SCD attending SCD clinics at St. Gema hospital and Dodoma regional referral hospital in Dodoma city from October 2020 to March 2021. The cut-off points for detection of IDA was serum ferritin level < 30 µg/L and low mean corpuscular volume (MCV) for age. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 25.0. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the predictors of IDA. P-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.ResultsThe prevalence of IDA in this study was (16.1%, n = 28). Family income of less than 70,000/= TZS/month (AOR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.07–2.49, p = 0.023), being transfused with blood less than 3 times from the time of being diagnosed with SCD (AOR = 5.5, 95% CI = 1.03–8.91, p = 0.046), and eating red meat at least once per month (AOR = 3.60, 95% CI = 1.37–9.46, p = 0.010) remained the independent predictors of IDA in multivariate regression analysis.ConclusionThe findings of this study have shown that, support of families with children suffering from SCD in terms of financial support for improving medical services including optimal blood transfusion and affordability of diet which is rich in iron such as red meat is imperative.

Guarding Our Guardians: Navigating Adverse Reactions in Healthcare Workers Amid Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Usage During COVID-19.

The widespread utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic has been crucial for reducing transmission risk among healthcare workers (HCWs) and the public. However, the extensive use of PPEhas brought about potential adverse reactions, particularly among HCWs. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of adverse skin reactions associated with PPE use among different categories of HCWs, including faculty, residents, and nursing officers (NOs), in a dedicated tertiary care COVID-19 hospital. The study design was a hospital-based cross-sectional analytical study conducted over one month, involving a total of 240 participants. The participants were required to complete a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire that covered demographic information, PPE-related data, preventive measures, observed reactions, and self-management strategies. Results indicated that adverse skin reactions were common among HCWs, with reactions reported by all participants. The most commonly used PPE included N95 masks, goggles, gloves, face shields, isolation gowns, and medical protective clothing. Excessive sweating (60% residents, 21.1% NOs, and 16.25% faculties), facial rash, dry palms (>70% of HCWs), and itching were among the most prevalent adverse reactions. Urticarial lesions (28.5% among NOs), pressure marks and pain (100% on the cheek among all HCWs), fungal infections (18.5% among residents at the web space of fingers), and skin breakdown were also reported. Factors such as age, gender, pre-existing skin problems, and oily/acne-prone skin history were found to be significantly associated with adverse skin reactions. In conclusion, the findings highlight the common adverse reactions reported by HCWs during the use of different PPEs. Certain steps taken by HCWs for the prevention of adverse reactions due to PPE emphasize the importance of tailored preventive measures and strategies to mitigate these adverse reactions, such as proper PPE selection, well-fitting equipment, regular breaks, and appropriate skincare practices. These insights contribute to the development of guidelines for optimal PPE usage and support the well-being of HCWs in their essential roles.

Prevalence of Thyroid Disorders among Pregnant Women in Banha City, Egypt a Hospital Based Cross Section Study

Prevalence of Thyroid Disorders among Pregnant Women in Banha City, Egypt a Hospital Based Cross Section Study

Challenges of Compliance with Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Standard Procedures among Healthcare Workers: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: This hospital-based cross-sectional study aimed to assess the compliance of 251 healthcare workers (HCWs) with Infective Prevention and Control (IPC) standard procedures. The study addresses the critical issue of IPC compliance among HCWs, as it plays a pivotal role in reducing the risk of infectious disease transmission within healthcare settings. Methodology: Analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at St. Francis Referral Hospital, involving 251 healthcare workers from different departments including Internal medicine, Surgery, and Emergency. The Compliance with Standard Precautions Scale (CSPS) tool developed by WHO was used. Descriptive and regression analysis was done. A P-value of less than 0.05 indicated statistical significance. Results: Overall average compliance with IPCSPs was 54% whereby only 24.7% (62/251) of healthcare workers had a good compliance. The majority of HCWs (85.3%) reported highest compliance on proper disposal of used sharp items into sharp boxes and low compliance rate (11.6%) was on the disposal of the sharp box, sharp box is only disposed when it is full. Statistically significant were found between IPCSPs and number of years of working experience, level of education, profession, IPC training and IPC meeting attendance. Conclusion: This cross-sectional study has shed light on the critical challenges faced by healthcare workers in complying with IPCSPs. Findings revealed a concerning compliance with IPCSPs which is below the WHO standard and national level standard as well. We therefore recommend enhancement of IPC training program, IPC awareness campaign, and more implementational research for IPCSPs compliance.

A Cross Sectional Study on the Prevalence Risk Factors and Clinical Presention of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease at a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease is an extraesophageal variant of gastro-esophageal reflux disease. It is a disease with high prevalence which is usually under reported or misdiagnosed due to lack of definite diagnosis. It can affect the quality of life of the patients. Hence, it is important to identify the risk factors associated with the disease.Methods: This was a hospital based cross sectional study conducted in a tertiary care hospital of Kerala for aperiod of one year. All patients with more than 18 years of age presented with throat and voice symptoms for more than six weeks were included in our study. A questionnaire based on Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) put forward by Belafsky were distributed to the patients and the responses were collected. Out of patients who responded, those who had an RSI score &gt; 13 were diagnosed to be suffering from LPRD. Additional questions were included in the questionnaire to assess the risk factors. All patients having RSI &gt;13 underwent flexible endoscopic examination to establish Reflux Finding Score (RFS) put forward by Belafsky et al. Patients having a score of 7or higher were classified as having LPRD.Conclusion: In our study we found the prevalence of laryngopharyngeal reflux to be 20.89%.The most common symptoms among the LPRD positive patients in our studygroup were sensation of lump in throat and heart burn,chest pain, indigestion or stomach acid coming up.

Reproductive Concerns and Associated Factors Among Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Survivors in Uganda: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study.

Purpose: Reproductive health (RH) is a critical issue among cancer survivors worldwide. However, in developing countries where RH services for patients with cancer are often lacking, reproductive concerns among adolescent and young adult (AYA) survivors remain uncertain. In this study, we assessed the reproductive concerns of AYA cancer survivors in a resource-limited context of Uganda. Methods: We collected data from AYA cancer survivors at two facilities in Uganda using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were calculated, one-way analysis of variance was used for intergroup comparisons, and multiple regressions were used to test for predictors of reproductive concerns. Results: A total of 110 AYA cancer survivors, with a median age of 20 years (interquartile range [IQR], 18-22), were interviewed. More than half (53.6%) of the respondents were males. The median time since cancer diagnosis was 19 months (IQR, 13.0-35.0). Almost all (91.8%) respondents had a future desire to have children, but only 15.5% received reproductive counseling. The mean total score for the reproductive concern subscales was highest for the fertility concern, followed by the information-seeking and health-related concerns. Reproductive counseling, desire to have children, and respondents' age were the factors influencing reproductive concern. Conclusions: The study shows a strong desire for biological parenthood with very low reproductive counseling among AYA cancer survivors, who remain concerned about their fertility, information needs, and health. This outcome underscores the need to integrate RH services into resource-limited cancer care settings.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Multimorbidity among Elderly People of Bangladesh

Background: Human aging is a dynamic and progressive natural process which is depends on interacting hereditary, biological, social, environmental, historical and cultural factors that determine the quality of life of an older individual. Multimorbidity was defined as the co‐occurrence of at least two chronic diseases in a person whether as a coincidence or not. Little attention has been paid to the study of the prevalence of multimorbidity among the elderly in Bangladesh. The study aimed to find out the prevalence and associated factors of multimorbidity among elderly people of Bangladesh. Methods: It was a hospital-based cross-sectional study, conducted in Department of Community Medicine, International Nursing College, Tongi, Bangladesh from January to December 2022. Data were collected from 250 participants. Categorical data were presented as proportion, and continuous data were presented as mean (SD). The Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression were used to find out the association between frailty and other variables. Results: Total Two hundred fifty eligible elderly persons were approached for the study. So, were analysed (response rate = 85%). The mean age (SD) of the participants was 70 (7.0) years. About half (55.2%) of them were female, 48% were living in a rural areas, and 68% were Muslim by religion. About two-thirds (58%) of participants were married (currently in union), and were living with either their spouses or children. Nearly one-third (64.4%) of participants were illiterate. The prevalence of multimorbidity was significantly higher among women than among men, among illiterate than among literate persons, among persons who belonged to the non-poorest quintiles than among the poorest quintile, and also significantly higher among single than among married persons. The most common disorders were arthritis (57.2%) and hypertension (38.4%). The prevalence of arthritis was significantly higher among the illiterate than among the ..........

Assessment of the appropriateness of stress ulcer prophylaxis use and its determinants among admitted surgical patients at Debre Berhan University Hakim Gizaw Hospital, Ethiopia. A hospital-based cross-sectional study.

Pharmacological stress ulcer prophylaxis (SUP) has been recommended for many years to reduce the risk of clinically significant upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding caused by stress ulcers (SUs). Stress-related ulcer bleeding in surgical patients significantly increases morbidity and mortality. Therefore, preventing stress-induced hemorrhage is the most appropriate measure for patients who are at increased risk. However, the inappropriate use of SUP has increased in recent years, and its use in Ethiopian surgical patients has not been well studied. The aim of this study was to assess the appropriateness of SUP use and its determinants among admitted surgical patients at Debre Berhan University Hakim Gizaw Hospital (DBUHGH), Ethiopia. We randomly selected 230 patients from the whole cross-sectional group of all surgical patients at DBUHGH from 1 February to 30 June 2023. The risk of stress ulcer (SU) development was assessed using the modified American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) guidelines. For data analysis, we used SPSS version 25. The mean age of study participants was 47.2 years (SD ± 20.4), and out of the total of 230, 130 (56.5%) were women. Approximately 66% of study participants took inappropriate SUP based on ASHP guidelines criteria. The most commonly used drug class for SUP was histamine-2 receptor blockers 115 (50%). Study participants who have a Charlson Comorbidity Index Score of moderate and GI bleeding have been significantly associated with the inappropriate use of SUP. In our study, inappropriate SUP use was common in the surgical ward of DBUHGH. This may be an area that requires further and more focused working together among clinical pharmacists and medical professionals in an institution-specific SUP protocol that aids clinicians in identifying appropriate candidates for SUP medication.

Assessment of bacterial profile, antimicrobial susceptibility status, and associated factors of isolates among hospitalized patients at Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northeast Ethiopia

BackgroundAntimicrobial resistant bacteria among hospitalized patients are becoming a major public health threat worldwide, mainly in developing countries. Infections by these multidrug resistant pathogens cause high rate of mortality, prolong hospital stays, and affect individual and country economies in greater amounts. Thus, this study aimed to assess the bacterial profile, antimicrobial susceptibility status, and associated factors of isolates from hospitalized patients at the Dessie Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.MethodologyThis hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted between February and April 2021. Consecutive sampling was used to select the study participants. All bacterial isolates were identified using standard bacteriological techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed using disk diffusion technique. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsOf 384 clinical samples (blood, urine, stool, wound, vaginal discharge, and ear discharge) processed 180 (46.9%) were culture positive. Overall, Escherichia coli was the predominant isolate (41; 22.8%), followed by Staphylococcus aureus (36; 20%). Most of the isolates were from blood (70; 38.9%). The level of overall drug resistance of the gram-negative bacteria isolates for ampicillin, tetracycline, and cotrimoxazole was (104; 88.1%), (79; 75.9%), and (78; 75.0%), respectively. The overall multidrug rate of isolates was 143 (79.4%). Variables such as history of invasive procedures, chronic underlying diseases, history of hospitalization, and habit of eating raw animal products were statistically significant for the acquisition of bacterial infection.Conclusions and recommendationE. Coli and S. aureus were the most common isolates. Most of the isolates were resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. And also, consumption of raw animal products, chronic underlying disease, previous hospitalization, history of invasive procedures, and educational status were associated with the acquisition of bacterial infections. Therefore, routine antimicrobial susceptibility testing, proper patient management, wise use of antibiotics in clinical settings and health education are recommended.

Predictors of neonatal mortality among neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Sidama regional state, Ethiopia

BackgroundDespite promising efforts, substantial deaths occurred during the neonatal period. According to estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO), Ethiopia is among the top 10 nations with the highest number of neonatal deaths in 2020 alone. This staggering amount makes it difficult to achieve the SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) target that calls for all nations to work hard to meet a neonatal mortality rate target of ≤ 12 deaths per 1,000 live births by 2030. We evaluated neonatal mortality and it’s contributing factors among newborns admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HUCSH).MethodsA hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional study on neonates admitted to the NICU from May 2021 to April 2022 was carried out at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. From the admitted 1044 cases over the study period, 225 babies were sampled using a systematic random sampling procedure. The relationship between variables was determined using bivariate and multivariable analyses, and statistically significant relations were indicated at p-values less than 0.05.ResultsThe magnitude of neonatal death was 14.2% (95% CI: 0.099–0.195). The most common causes of neonatal death were prematurity 14 (43.8%), sepsis 9 (28.1%), Perinatal asphyxia 6 (18.8%), and congenital malformations 3 (9.4%). The overall neonatal mortality rate was 28 per 1000 neonate days. Neonates who had birth asphyxia were 7.28 times more probable (AOR = 7.28; 95% CI: 2.367, 9.02) to die. Newborns who encountered infection within the NICU were 8.17 times more likely (AOR = 8.17; 95% CI: 1.84, 36.23) to die.ConclusionThe prevalence of newborn death is excessively high. The most common causes of mortality identified were prematurity, sepsis, perinatal asphyxia and congenital anomalies. To avert these causes, we demand that antenatal care services be implemented appropriately, delivery care quality be improved, and appropriate neonatal care and treatment be made available.

Prevalence of Bacterial Vaginosis and Its Association With Preterm Birth in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Chennai: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background The most common preventive cause of premature labour is ascending infections.This study was conducted to evaluate the association between bacterial vaginosis (BV) and preterm labour in antenatal women and determine the significance of using the Amsel criteria to screen for BV. Methods This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted among 100 antenatal mothers in the second trimester attending the antenatal OPD at a tertiary care hospital in Chennai from October 2019 to September 2021 after obtaining clearance from the institutional ethics committee and written informed consent from the study participants. Data were entered in Excel (Microsoft Corporation, Redmond, WA) and analysed in SPSS (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results According to the Amsel criteria, BV was detected in 21 women (21%). Neither maternal age nor parity had an effect on the study group. There was a statistically significant relationship (p < 0.05) between the mode of delivery, preterm labour, and the study group. Of the 21 positive BV cases, 95% were positive for clue cells and only 5% were positive for gram-negative bacteria. Consequently, BV was found to be associated with early labour. There is no association between BMI and BV (p > 0.005). Conclusion In the current study, BV was shown to be associated with preterm labour. Our study underscores the significance of the Amsel criteria as a valuable tool for screening BV in antenatal women.

Awareness of standard precautions, circumstances of occurrence and management of occupational exposures to body fluids among healthcare workers in a regional level referral hospital (Bertoua, Cameroon)

BackgroundHealthcare workers (HCW) are exposed to infectious agents within biological materials including blood, tissues, other body fluids and on medical supplies, contaminated surfaces within the care delivery environment. Trends in occupational injuries are influenced by the level of awareness and observance of standard precautions (SP) among HCWs. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness of SP, exposure to body fluids, reporting pattern and management among HCWs in a Referral Hospital.MethodsThe present hospital-based cross-sectional study was carried out from 1st November 2020 to 31st May 2021. The exhaustive sampling method was used and a total of 120 consenting HCWs were invited to participate. A self-administered questionnaire addressed questions related to knowledge, experience, circumstances of exposure, reporting, management of occupational exposure to body fluids, hepatitis B vaccination status. Data were analyzed using R Statistic version 4.3.1. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant.ResultsOut of the 120 participating HCWs, 104 (86.7%) reported at least one accidental exposure to body fluids over the last year. Men (aOR = 4.19; p = 0.277) and HCWs aged 35 and over (aOR = 4.11; p = 0.114) were more at risk for AEB even though the difference was not statistically significant. Nurses/midwives (aOR = 65.9; p-value = 0.0005) and cleaners (aOR = 14.7; p-value = 0.0438) faced the highest risk of exposure. Lack of knowledge (79%) and patient agitation (49%) were the most reported reasons for exposure. Half of the participants (53%) reported that they used a personal protective equipment during care. Face mask (59.2%) and gowns (30.8%) were the most commonly used PPE. Most HCWs (62%) did not report AEB. Half of the affected HCWs (50.8%) received a course of post-exposure antiretroviral therapy. Few HCWs (4.2%) were fully immunized against Hepatitis B.ConclusionsMost HCWs reported an accidental exposure to body fluids over the last year. Midwives and nurses were disproportionally affected socio-professional groups. Two-thirds of the AEB were undeclared. Only half of the participants reported using PPE systematically. Hepatitis B vaccination coverage was low. There is need to strengthen the observance of standard precautions, including preventive vaccination and the systematic reporting and management of AEB.

Seroprevalence of Syphilis among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care in Yaqshiid District, Mogadishu, Somalia

Background: The prevalence of syphilis among pregnant women in Somalia has been poorly studied, despite its significant impact on maternal and fetal health. In Somalia, the last syphilis study was conducted approximately 30 years ago, leaving a critical knowledge gap regarding the current epidemic of syphilis among pregnant women. Materials and methods: From January 2023 to April 2023, a hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on maternal and child health. A total of 300 pregnant women were included in the study, and the seroprevalence of syphilis was determined using the Venereal Disease Research Laboratory. This one-step quick diagnostic test cassette was used as the preliminary screening tool, and Positive results were confirmed using the full chemiluminescence immunoassay (CLIA) analyzer MAGLUMI. A structured questionnaire was used to collect demographic characteristics and knowledge regarding syphilis transmission and mother-to-child transmission. SPSS Version 27.0 was used to analyze the gathered data. Statistical significance was set at p &lt; 0.05. Results: Overall, 5.3% (16/300) of pregnant women had syphilis seroprevalence. Seroprevalence rates were higher in women aged 24-34 (50.0%). There were significant relationships between syphilis infection and education (p &lt; 0.000), occupation (p &lt; 0.000), and residence (p = 0.002). Furthermore, a significant majority of pregnant women (78%) were unaware of syphilis transmission routes and its correlation to HIV risk (81.7%). Stillbirths constituted 23.3% of pregnancy-related problems, whereas 17% of pregnant women had a prior record of blood transfusions. Conclusions: The study found an alarming syphilis seroprevalence in pregnant women, especially in certain demographic groups. The lack of knowledge of syphilis transmission and its effects highlights the necessity for targeted education. Improved prenatal care, health awareness, and effective prevention should lessen the effects of syphilis on mother and newborn health.