Sampling Technique Research Articles

Enhancement of random sampling by a combined approach of control variates and Latin hypercube sampling for uncertainty quantification in light water reactor lattice calculations

ABSTRACT This study confirmed the efficiency of a combined approach of the control variates (CV) and the Latin hypercube sampling (LHS), which enhanced the random-sampling-based uncertainty quantification due to cross-section (XS) covariance data, by considering the effect of statistical variation. The convergence performance for the uncertainty of infinite multiplication factor (k-infinity) during the random sampling was compared between several efficient sampling techniques such as the antithetic sampling (AS), LHS, CV, and the combined approaches of them in the PWR-UO2 fuel assembly geometry. The k-infinity uncertainty was evaluated by statistically processing several times Serpent2 calculations using perturbed ACE-formatted XS files based on ENDF/B-VIII.0. CV+AS and CV+LHS showed similar higher efficiency than AS, LHS, and CV. In addition, sensitivity analyses were performed to select alternative parameters used in CV. The calculation results obtained in fuel pin-cell and 3 × 3 mini fuel lattice geometries showed almost the same performance as alternative parameters. The reason was qualitatively considered that the influence of XS covariance data for U isotopes was more dominant though the 3 × 3 mini fuel lattice geometry can capture that for Gd isotopes. Consequently, the applicability of CV+LHS for the improvement of convergence performance to evaluate the k-infinity uncertainty during the random sampling was confirmed.

Inconsistent terminology in rodent anatomy hinders appropriate blood sampling in laboratory animal science: A review of blood sampling techniques on the head of mice.

Blood sampling is often performed during animal studies. This is more challenging in mice than in larger animal species owing to their size and lack of blood vessel visibility. Guidelines for blood sampling in mice and papers on animal welfare often refer to the submandibular, cheek, buccal, and anterior facial veins. However, these terms are imprecise. There are at least two different superficial veins that can be used for blood sampling on the head of the mouse; moreover, most studies ignore this distinction. Inaccurate descriptions and even incorrect labelling of the images lead to confusion and unnecessary delays in learning blood collection techniques, as well as stress and pain in animals due to failed attempts. This review explains the most common terminological errors, demonstrates the distinction between bleeding facial and superficial temporal veins using original photographs, and discusses the suitability of sampling from both veins.

Investigating the relationship between goal orientation, self-efficacy, positive emotionality, and affective engagement among Chinese students.

This study delved into the complex interplay between self-efficacy, achievement goals, positive emotions, and affective engagement among university students in China. To achieve this, a stratified random sampling technique was employed, resulting in a sample of 391 students from four geographically distinct universities across China. The data collection relied on self-reported questionnaires that measured academic self-efficacy, goal orientation (specifically focusing on mastery versus performance goals), positive emotions, and various aspects of affective engagement, including enjoyment, satisfaction, and interest in learning. Structural equation modeling (SEM) served as the primary statistical tool to analyze the hypothesized relationships between these variables. The analysis revealed a network of positive associations, indicating that students with higher levels of self-efficacy and positive emotionality reported experiencing greater affective engagement in their academic pursuits. Furthermore, a stronger mastery goal orientation was associated with increased enjoyment, satisfaction, and interest in learning. Self-efficacy and positive emotionality also indirectly influenced affective engagement through goal orientation, suggesting that students with higher self-belief and positive emotions were more likely to adopt mastery goals, leading to more positive learning experiences. This study highlights the importance of self-efficacy, positive emotionality, and goal orientation in shaping students' affective engagement. By fostering these factors, educators can create more positive and engaging learning environments for university students.

Detection and genomic characterisation of foot-and-mouth disease virus serotypes circulating in Cameroon using environmental sampling

Foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is a highly contagious, economically important disease of livestock and wildlife species. Active monitoring and understanding the epidemiology of FMDV underpin the foundations of control programmes. In many endemic areas, however, veterinary resources are limited, resulting in a requirement for simple sampling techniques to increase and supplement surveillance efforts. In this study, environmental sampling was used for the first time at livestock markets and abattoirs across Cameroon to assess the opportunities for broad scale, non-invasive disease surveillance at such sites. Environmental samples (n = 1994) were collected from six locations across Cameroon between May and July 2019. Concurrent with environmental sampling, a questionnaire was used to gather descriptive information on the use and practices of market and abattoir sites. Samples were screened for the presence of FMDV RNA using a pan-serotype FMDV specific real-time RT-PCR assay. Positive samples were characterised at the genomic level using next generation sequencing in combination with a novel probe-based enrichment strategy. A total of 173/1994 (8.68%) environmental samples were found to be positive for FMDV RNA. Genome length sequences were obtained from environmental samples, with phylogenetically relevant capsid sequences obtained from 14 samples, with representatives of serotypes O (n = 6), A (n = 7) and SAT 2 (n = 3). The questionnaire results revealed that animals in Cameroon can be transported long distances to markets and abattoirs, with varying levels of control and biosecurity practices in place. The approaches used in this study have highlighted that environmental sampling is an effective and non-invasive approach to assessing FMDV presence. Furthermore, the study has demonstrated that livestock markets, abattoirs and trucks could be targeted for the introduction of biosecurity interventions as well as providing opportunities for carrying out disease surveillance. Information resulting from such surveillance could provide valuable knowledge of circulating viruses within a region of interest, aiding strategic approaches for surveillance and control of FMDV.

Harmony in healthcare: recommended infant feeding practices and associated factors among HIV positive mothers in Eastern Ethiopian hospitals

BackgroundFor mothers identified as HIV-infected, recommended infant feeding practices must prioritize the highest likelihood of ensuring HIV-free survival for their children while preserving maternal health. Consequently, understanding the feeding status during critical infancy stages, especially under the risk of HIV, plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life within this specific population segment. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the magnitude and associated factors of recommended infant feeding practices and its associated factors among HIV-positive mothers in Eastern Ethiopian Hospitals.MethodsA cross-sectional study conducted in Eastern Ethiopian Hospitals from June to July 2022 included 371 mothers of infants. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling techniques. Data was collected through pre-tested structured face-to-face interviews administered by trained interviewers. Following data collection, information was cleaned and entered using Kobo tool collection software, then exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25 for analysis. Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the strength of association between explanatory and outcome variables. Variables with a p-value < 0.25 in univariable logistic regression analysis were considered for multivariable logistic regression analysis, and statistical significance was determined at a P-value < 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval.ResultsThe magnitude of recommended feeding practice was found to be 86% (95% CI: 81.9, 89.1). HIV-positive mothers who had a child age of 0–6 months [AOR = 5.21 (95% CI: 2.54, 10.70], spontaneous vaginal delivery [AOR = 2.11 (95% CI: 1.05, 4.24], and ever provided expressed breast milk [AOR = 2.82 (95% CI: 1.33, 5.95] were significantly associated with recommended Infant feeding practice.Conclusionthe study identified a moderate level of adherence to recommended infant feeding practices among HIV-positive mothers in Eastern Ethiopian hospitals. Key factors influencing adherence included the child’s age, mode of delivery, and the provision of expressed breast milk. Target interventions to improve infant feeding practices among HIV-positive mothers, focusing on younger infants, cesarean-delivered mothers, and those not providing expressed breast milk. Strengthen counseling and education in healthcare facilities to address these significant factors and enhance adherence to recommended feeding practices.

Radiant living: embarking on a journey to well-being through wellness tourism experience, dived by tourist satisfaction and fear of missing out

ABSTRACT This study examines the influence of wellness tourism experiences on tourists well-being, focusing on the mediating roles of tourist satisfaction and fear of missing out (FoMO). This is the first model to measure the mediating effects of tourist satisfaction and FoMO in the context of wellness tourism. Using a purposive sampling technique, data were collected from 348 respondents who had participated in wellness tourism in Ubud, Bali. A structured questionnaire was administered to gather responses. The proposed model was validated using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) which was analysed with SmartPLS 4. Wellness tourism experiences have a significant positive impact on tourist well-being, both directly and indirectly through the mediating roles of tourists’ satisfaction and FoMO. Tourist satisfaction was identified as a stronger mediator than FoMO. The present study demonstrates that tourist satisfaction positively influences well-being during wellness tourism. FoMO also contributed positively, thus indicating a distinct role. The results of this research hold theoretical and practical implications for increasing the understanding of tourist well-being and augmenting the wellness tourism experience.

Occupational injuries, mental workload and coping strategies among the nursing workforce in the Eastern Region of Ghana: a multi-centre study

BackgroundThe nursing profession plays a crucial role in the quality of healthcare services. While nurses face occupational injury challenges globally, mental workload, which is often overlooked, plays a significant role in these injuries. Understanding nurses’ coping strategies can help develop effective interventions. The study examined the influence of mental workload on occupational injuries and coping strategies among nurses.MethodsA multi-centre cross-sectional study was conducted in selected hospitals in the Eastern Region of Ghana. Using a stratified sampling technique, 317 nursing staff from 6 hospitals participated in the study. A researcher-developed occupational injury questionnaire, NASA Task Load Index and Brief COPE scale were used to measure occupational injury, mental workload and coping strategies among nurses. Descriptive statistics, Pearson moment-product correlations, and regression analysis were used to analyse the data at a statistical significance of 0.05.ResultsNeedle pricks, injuries from sharps, exposure to blood and other body fluids, and back pain and injury from patient handling tasks were shared among participants in the past year. The study also revealed a high level of mental workload among participants. A significant correlation was observed between mental workload and various occupational injuries. The participants adopted different coping strategies in dealing with the mental workload, with active coping and instrumental support being the most used coping strategies.ConclusionThe findings underscore the importance of addressing mental workload in nursing to reduce occupational injuries. To achieve this, nurses must be provided with appropriate coping strategies and support to minimise mental stress.ImplicationProviding accessible and effective coping strategies tailored to nurses’ needs can significantly improve their well-being and job performance. Healthcare administrators and policymakers should consider these results when designing interventions to support the nursing workforce.

Adherence to iron deficiency interventions among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Ubungo municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

BackgroundIron deficiency anemia in pregnant women remains a public health concern despite iron deficiency interventions that have been implemented. This study investigated adherence to iron deficiency interventions and the associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Ubungo Municipality.MethodsThis cross-sectional study used a systematic random sampling technique to obtain 503 participants from the surveyed clinics. Interviews were conducted by using interviewer-administered questionnaires. Data were analyzed using Stata version 17. The study employed binary and multivariable logistic regression analysis to determine factors associated with adherence to iron deficiency interventions.ResultsIn this study, 72% of participants were non-adherent and 28% were adherent to the interventions. In multivariable regression analysis, participants who forgot to take their iron tables on most days (AOR 2.35; 95% CI 1.23–4.48) and those who reported that not enough time was spent on education and counseling during antenatal clinic visits (AOR 3.87; 95% CI 1.08–13.84) were more likely to be non-adherent to iron deficiency interventions.ConclusionsMajority of pregnant women in Ubungo Municipality were non-adherent to iron deficiency interventions. Non-adherence was associated with a tendency to forget taking iron tablets, and lack of enough time in providing health education and counseling. Improving the quality of health education and counseling could increase adherence to iron deficiency interventions and reduce maternal–child morbidity and mortality rates.

Acceptance of multiple micronutrient supplementations (MMS) and iron and folic acid supplement utilisation among pregnant and lactating women in the rural part of Ethiopia, 2022: a cross-sectional study

ObjectiveTo assess the acceptance of multiple micronutrient supplements and current iron and folic acid supplement utilisation among pregnant and lactating women in rural Ethiopia.DesignCommunity-based cross-sectional study using a mixed method.SettingThis...

The Effect of Ramadan Fasting on Breastfeeding Practices of Muslim Women.

Introduction: Many breastfeeding mothers fast during Ramadan month despite being exempted from fasting. This study aims to estimate the prevalence rate of Ramadan fasting during breastfeeding and detect its associated factors among Egyptian Muslim mothers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1,130 lactating mothers selected through a multistage stratified random sampling technique in Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt. The data were collected through a structured questionnaire including sociodemographic data, the Arabic Scale of Intrinsic Religiosity (ASIR), and data about breastfeeding and fasting practices during Ramadan. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to detect the significant predictors of fasting among lactating mothers. Results: Of 1,130 study participants, more than half (53.5%) were aged ≥27 years old and had secondary education (54.6%). About four in every five (83.7%) of them fasted during Ramadan. Secondary education (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.71, p ≤ 0.001), university and postgraduate education (AOR = 4.88, p ≤ 0.001), non-working (AOR = 1.88, p = 0.011), being in debt and just meeting routine expenses (AOR = 1.75, p = 0.007), having high intrinsic religiosity (AOR = 2.70, p ≤ 0.001), having infants aged 6 months and more (AOR = 2.60, p ≤ 0.001), giving prelacteal feeding (AOR = 2.56, p ≤ 0.001), giving supplements (AOR = 2.11, p ≤ 0.001), and breastfeeding on demand (AOR = 1.92, p = 0.01) were the significant predictors of the higher fasting rates among the lactating mothers. Conclusion: Fasting is a prevalent practice among breastfeeding mothers of infants during Ramadan. Ramadan fasting does not significantly influence maternal outcomes or infant weight. Therefore, it is advisable for lactating mothers to consult with healthcare professionals prior to deciding to fast during Ramadan.

Design Principles From Natural Olfaction for Electronic Noses.

Natural olfactory systems possess remarkable sensitivity and precision beyond what is currently achievable by engineered gas sensors. Unlike their artificial counterparts, noses are capable of distinguishing scents associated with mixtures of volatile molecules in complex, typically fluctuating environments and can adapt to changes. This perspective examines the multifaceted biological principles that provide olfactory systems their discriminatory prowess, and how these ideas can be ported to the design of electronic noses for substantial improvements in performance across metrics such as sensitivity and ability to speciate chemical mixtures. The topics examined herein include the fluid dynamics of odorants in natural channels; specificity and kinetics of odorant interactions with olfactory receptors and mucus linings; complex signal processing that spatiotemporally encodes physicochemical properties of odorants; active sampling techniques, like biological sniffing and nose repositioning; biological priming; and molecular chaperoning. Each of these components of natural olfactory systems are systmatically investigated, as to how they have been or can be applied to electronic noses. While not all artificial sensors can employ these strategies simultaneously, integrating a subset of bioinspired principles can address issues like sensitivity, drift, and poor selectivity, offering advancements in many sectors such as environmental monitoring, industrial safety, and disease diagnostics.

Event planner destination choice: A case study of Nashville

Site attributes and destination image play critical roles in the event planning process, significantly impacting the success of events. This study examines the influence of site selection factors and destination image on the decision-making process of event planners, with a focus on Nashville, TN in the US. This study adopted purposive and snowball sampling techniques to enhance triangulation in data collection. To ensure trustworthiness and credibility, the criteria for selecting interviewees are as follows: 1) currently employed in an event company, 2) possessing experience in selecting event sites, and 3) having planned events in Nashville. This study utilizes in-depth interviews with 15 participants, and the data were subjected to thematic analysis using NVivo12. Findings indicate that client demands and budget considerations are primary determinants in site selection, while secondary factors include AV, Wi-Fi, and F&B options. Concerning Nashville’s destination image, perceptions of high hotel room rates, limited event space for larger gatherings, and restricted date options emerge. These findings underscore a potential disparity between event planners’ perceptions and the actual destination image. Thus, Convention and Visitors Bureaus/Destination Marketing Organizations (CVBs/DMOs) should incorporate event planners’ perceptions of destination image alongside site attributes to enhance the destination’s appeal to event organizers.

Exploring the relationship between mental health issues and academic performance of undergraduate students in a Ghanaian tertiary institution: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMental health associations with students’ academic outcomes are critical for students’ well-being and excellent performance, particularly among tertiary students in their educational trajectory. This study investigated the relationship between mental health incidence and academic performance among university students in a public university in Ghana. Additionally, we study students’ level of mental health awareness.MethodsThe study adopted a quantitative study with an analytical cross-sectional design. Through the multistage sampling technique, structured questionnaires were administered to 384 undergraduate students at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Data management and analysis were performed using SPSS v.27. Descriptive data are presented in tables and reported as frequencies. Inferential analysis was conducted using a multilevel logistic regression model and a p-value of 0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance.ResultsSevere depression (p = 0.016, ϰ2 = 0.784) was significantly associated with students’ academic performance. Severe anxiety (p = 0.020, ϰ2 = 11.700), gender (p = 0.014, ϰ2 = 5.999) and self-efficacy (p = 0.015, ϰ2 = 5.939), were found to have a statistically significant association with academic performance (p < 0.05). According the multilevel analysis, females experiencing mental health had reduced likelihood of achieving high academic performance compared to male students (AOR = 0.343, 95% CI 0.144–0.813, p = 0.015). Severely depressed students (AOR = 0.264, 95% CI 0.084-0.830, p = 0.23) are significantly less likely to increase their Cumulative Weighted Average (CWA). Self-efficacious students (AOR = 3.325, 95% CI 1.421-7.784, p = 0.06) were three times more likely to increase their CWA.ConclusionSevere depression causes a reduction in students’ academic performance, while high academic self-efficacy among students serves as a protective factor by facilitating an increase in students’ CWA when they encounter mental health issues.

Environmental education in schools: sustainability and hope

Schools have implemented environmental education, but its impact on sustainability and execution often falls short of expectations. This study aims to explore and analyze the sustainability and expectations of environmental education in schools. The research employs a quantitative approach, with the population comprising teachers in Palembang, Indonesia. We used a purposive sampling technique to select 100 teachers from Palembang as respondents. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed descriptively based on average scores. The results indicate that teachers have high expectations for schools, fellow teachers, and students. Teachers expect schools to effectively develop and implement visions, missions, and curricula related to environmental education, alongside supporting programs. Teachers aspire to consistently educate students, act as role models, and receive training to enhance their environmental knowledge and skills. Additionally, teachers aim to integrate environmental education into other subjects. Teachers expect students to apply and sustain their environmental knowledge, values, and skills in their daily lives. The recommendations are aimed at both schools and teachers. Schools integrate environmental education into the school’s vision, mission, and curriculum. Organize programs and extracurricular activities focused on environmental sustainability. Teachers Provide continuous professional development, such as workshops and training on environmental education methods. Encourage collaboration among teachers to share best practices for integrating environmental education in different subjects.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of healthcare workers towards COVID-19 in three states of Nigeria in 2022

BackgroundKnowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) towards COVID-19 can directly impact healthcare workers’ (HCWs) services and efforts to contain the spread of the disease. This study assessed KAP towards COVID-19 among...

Unmasking the potential: a historical perspective on the evolution of exfoliative cytology in oral cavity neoplasms.

Exfoliative cytology has proven to be a valuable diagnostic tool in the early detection of malignant neoplasms. However, its application in the oral cavity has been met with skepticism and limited investigation due to the perception that clinical examination alone is sufficient for early diagnosis. Nonetheless, recent research efforts have focused on the utility of exfoliative cytology in oral cavity neoplasms, motivated by the high mortality rate associated with oral cancer. This manuscript reviews the historical development of exfoliative cytology in the oral cavity, highlighting key findings and advancements in the field. Early studies demonstrated the presence of neoplastic cells in oral cavity lesions and emphasized the diagnostic potential of cytology. Subsequent research explored different staining methods and observed the differential reaction of oral cavity cells to radiation therapy. The diagnostic accuracy of exfoliative cytology was reported to be as high as 92%, with a significant number of cases diagnosed as carcinomas without any clinical suspicion. The technique also proved valuable in identifying precancerous and dysplastic lesions and obviating the need for unnecessary biopsies. The manuscript delves into the difficulties encountered in sampling techniques and stresses the significance of appropriate specimen collection and handling. Various staining methods, including Papanicolaou and acridine orange, were utilized for cytological analysis. The manuscript emphasizes the extensive use of exfoliative cytology in oral cavity examinations and stresses the importance of recognizing it as a crucial diagnostic tool. Various studies have reported high positivity rates and the detection of clinically unsuspected malignant lesions. The authors recommend extensive use of exfoliative cytology in routine practice and underscore the necessity of proper sampling and evaluation techniques.

Improving the provision of clinical pharmacy services in low- and middle-income countries: a qualitative study in tertiary health facilities in Tanzania

BackgroundThe provision of clinical pharmacy services (CPS) in low- and middle-income countries is still low. The reported challenges in providing CPS include healthcare structures, public policies, resources, workforce, culture and...

Association between cognitive restraint, emotional eating, uncontrolled eating, and body mass index among health care professionals

Among healthcare professionals (HCPs), the demanding nature of their work, irregular schedules, and high-stress environments can significantly influence their eating behaviors. This study’s objectives were to assess the relationship between cognitive restraint (CR), emotional eating (EE), uncontrolled eating (UE), and body mass index (BMI) and identify the sociodemographic factors associated with CR, EE, and UE among HCPs. A cross-sectional study and a simple random sampling technique were employed. Data on sociodemographic characteristics and anthropometric measurements were gathered using a self-administered online questionnaire. Eating behaviors (CR, EE, UE) were assessed using the Three-Factor Eating Questionnaire—Revised 18 Items. Of the 400 HCPs, 37.3% of their BMIs fell within the overweight range, and 22.5% fell within the obesity range. The overall mean score of CR among participants was 67.5 ± 26.4, UE was 42.1 ± 22.8, and EE was 38 ± 26.9. BMI was significantly associated with UE (B = 0.523, p = 0.026) and EE (B = 0.612, p = 0.014), suggesting that higher BMI levels are related to greater tendencies toward both behaviors. These findings underscore the need for tailored interventions and support programs to address these eating behaviors among HCPs. Such interventions are vital to promote healthier eating behaviors, improve overall well-being, and ultimately enhance the quality of healthcare these professionals provide.

Exploring performance measurement practices in public housing tenancy management in Malaysia

PurposeThis paper aims to explore existing performance measurement (PM) practices in Malaysian public housing, specifically focusing on tenancy management operational practices and PM initiatives, thereby contributing valuable insights to this under-researched area.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing open-ended interviews to gather insights. To enhance the validity and reliability of the data, a purposive sampling technique was applied, selecting experts based on predefined criteria. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the interview data, extracting meaningful themes and providing a comprehensive understanding of PM practices in Malaysian public housing.FindingsThe findings reveal significant disparities in PM practices across different states in Malaysia. While some public housing entities have established their own key performance indicators, others lack structured frameworks, leading to inconsistencies in monitoring and effectiveness. The discrepancy highlights the need for a more uniform approach to ensure transparency and reliability in PM.Originality/valueThis study provides unique insights into the current state of PM, particularly in the context of tenancy management, which has been underexplored. By employing qualitative methods and thematic analysis, the research offers a nuanced understanding of the challenges and gaps in PM. It highlights significant disparities across different states and identifies key areas for improvement. These findings underscore its potential to inform and transform PM practices in Malaysian public housing, paving the way for more standardized and effective PM practices in the future.

Prevalence and predictors of self-medication practices among adult household members in Hosanna town, Hadiya zone, central Ethiopia

BackgroundSelf-medication is a global health concern with serious public health implications. Excessive and inappropriate self-medication practice can lead to recurrent infections and increased antibiotic resistance, which is a major problem impacting morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite the significance of this issue, no single study has been conducted on self-medication practices in the study area, to the best of the researchers’ knowledge.ObjectiveTo assess prevalence and predictors of self-medication practices among adult household members in hosanna town hadiya zone, central Ethiopia 2024.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 1–30, 2024, among 566 randomly selected households in Central Ethiopia. Households were chosen using a simple random sampling technique. Both bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regressions were used to assess the explanatory variables associated with self-medication practices. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with a p-value < 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval were considered statistically significant.ResultsOut of the 566 study participants, 546 respondents were interviewed, yielding a response rate of 96.46%. Among the study participants, 338 (61.9%) with a 95% CI of (57.8–65.9) practiced self-medication in the past two months. Age of respondents ≥ 48 years (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI: (1.27, 5.99)), being married (AOR = 3.24, 95% CI: (2.0-5.26)), having a family size ≥ four members (AOR = 1.69, 95% CI: (1.00-2.87)), and not being a member of a health insurance scheme (AOR = 3.13, 95% CI: (1.95–5.04)) were significantly associated with self-medication practices.Conclusion and recommendationsThe prevalence of self-medication practice in the study area was relatively high. Self-medication practices were associated with the age of respondents, marital status, family size, and health insurance membership. Public health education and awareness campaigns should be strengthened to emphasize safe and responsible self-medication practices, particularly among older adults and those living in larger families.