Research Articles (Nursing Science)

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We are on our own : the neglected voices of the boy-child in adolescent sexual and reproductive health in Vhembe District, Limpopo, South Africa
(Women’s Health and Action Research Centre, 2025-03) Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Seretlo, Raikane J.; Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica; mavis.mulaudzi@up.ac.za
Adolescent reproductive health activities and programmes have been made available to adolescents at schools, non-governmental organisations, and youth-friendly services. However, boys feel neglected as services are mostly catered for girls. This study reflects the neglected voices of a boy-child in Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health in Vhembe District in Limpopo province of South Africa. The study was conducted using a cooperative inquiry design. The data were collected using the Lekgotla discussion method. Data were analysed using NVIVO software version 14 and five steps of thematic analysis were followed during the data analysis. The main themes were as follows: We are on our own, Distorted information on Boko (masturbation); boys don’t get pregnant”; Discussion about sex with elders is taboo; Programmes are centred around a girl-child. The findings revealed that boys felt isolated as they had to rely on friends to teach them methods of preventing pregnancy that can be used by boys, such as masturbation and pulling out. They also felt that discussing sex education with parents and teachers is taboo. It is, therefore, recommended that there is a need for the Department of Health Services to consider having boy-friendly services to assist boys in managing their sexuality.
Experiences of postnatal mothers regarding the implementation of maternal and neonatal referral system guidelines in Mopani District in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
(Women’s Health and Action Research Centre, 2025-02) Mosehla, Kgadi Ruth; Rasweswe, Melitah M.; Peu, Mmapheko Doriccah
South Africa experiences challenges of maternal mortality, caused by pregnancy related conditions. Limpopo Province as one of the provinces in South Africa, is also affected. There are challenges facing obstetric emergency referrals, despite the availability of maternal/neonatal referral system guidelines. Therefore, this study explored the experiences of postnatal mothers aiming at facilitation of prompt referral of obstetric emergencies. Descriptive phenomenological research methods were used. The study was conducted in two selected sites, a maternity unit of a district hospital and a primary healthcare facility (fixed clinic), which is a feeder clinic to the district hospital in a selected sub-district of the Mopani district. Population were eleven (11) postnatal mothers. Purposive sampling was used. Data were collected using in- depth individual face -to- face interviews. Data was analysed using Colaizzi's seven procedural steps. Four essential meanings and their constituents were revealed: postnatal mothers' positive experiences, challenging experiences, consequences of challenges and post-natal mothers' recommendations. Health care facilities to be equipped with adequate, functional, safe, reliable, well equipped obstetrical equipment, material and human resources to facilitate prompt referral of obstetric emergencies.
Adherence, perceptions and knowledge of an HIV PMTCT programme : a mother-baby pair study
(AOSIS, 2025-01) Mabuka, Sthembiso; Lowane, Mygirl P.; Nesengani, Tintswalo Victoria; Simbeni, Thembi V.
BACKGROUND : Prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) programmes are designed to prevent HIV transmission to infants and children. Despite efforts to achieve this goal, several factors continue to pose challenges. OBJECTIVES : To investigate the level of adherence, perceptions, knowledge, and factors associated with adherence to the PMTCT programme in primary healthcare facilities. METHOD : A descriptive cross-sectional study design and quantitative research approach was used, and clinical records were reviewed to determine the prevalence of seroconverted babies of mothers enrolled in a PMTCT programme for the past 2 years in the community healthcare centres. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. RESULTS : A total of 341 mother-baby pairs were recruited and took part in the study. Most women (263; 77%), perceived that a pregnant woman living with HIV can transmit the virus to her unborn baby. The following factors were independently associated with non-adherence: being unmarried, the period of maternal HIV diagnosis and initiation on antiretroviral therapy, unsuppressed viral load results, missed clinic appointments, side effects, and getting tired of taking HIV medication. CONCLUSION : This study investigated adherence to and perceptions of all components of the PMTCT programme by pregnant and breastfeeding women in primary healthcare facilities. Despite the significant progress made, maternal and paediatric HIV pandemic pose a challenge to the PMTCT services. There is a need for follow-up research to monitor the ongoing adherence to the PMTCT programme and its long-term impact in reducing the rate of transmission of HIV in mothers.
Factors affecting student nurses’ adherence to standard precautions for preventing Tuberculosis and HIV at Eswatini University
(Bentham Open, 2024) Gina, Ncobile Sidzandza Victoria; Rasweswe, Melitah Molatelo; Moagi, Miriam Mmamphamo
BACKGROUND: The prevention of Healthcare-associated Infections (HAIs) has become an increasing challenge throughout the world. Tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) are among the infections that student nurses are at risk of acquiring during their clinical practice in the healthcare setting. One of the most essential measures used to control HAIs is the application of standard precautions. However, student nurses have been found to not adhere to the standard precautions for the prevention of TB and HIV when allocated for clinical practice in the Eswatini healthcare setting. AIM: This study aimed to assess factors affecting student nurses’ adherence to standard precautions. METHODS: A non-experimental quantitative approach was used to conduct a survey on senior student nurses of Eswatini University using the questionnaires. The total population of third-, fourth-, and fifth-year students was selected through the census sampling method. Statistical Package for Social Science version 26 software was used to analyze the data. RESULTS: Factors influencing compliance with standard precautions for the prevention of TB and HIV have been categorized into the availability of resources, measures taken by student nurses, hospital support role, and university support role. CONCLUSION: The researchers recommend that TB and HIV prevention skills be demonstrated to student nurses in the skills laboratory and that clinical facilitators should accompany students in the clinical area. In the hospitals, ordering and monitoring of supplies should be done well to eliminate the shortage of resources, and preceptors should be exempted from other duties so that they can be able to supervise student nurses.
Resilience in solitude : a review of loneliness and Its impact on nurses' wellbeing
(Wiley, 2024-12) Nashwan, Abdulqadir J.; Alsalamah, Yasir S.; Abu-Mahfouz, Mohammad S.; Palanivelu, Prakash; Masoud, Ahmed
The issue of loneliness among nurses is of considerable importance, with potential ramifications extending beyond the well-being of the individuals involved to the quality of patient care delivered. This review explores the topic in-depth, guided by the recognition that the considerable influence of loneliness on nurses’ welfare warrants extensive examination and evaluation. The rationale for undertaking this review is to understand and communicate the wide-reaching implications of loneliness within the nursing profession. In this narrative review, we tried to elucidate the prevalence, causes, and impacts of loneliness among nurses globally. We explored various theoretical frameworks and empirical studies to illuminate the factors contributing to loneliness within this population and analyzed the prevalence rates with other professions. The review further discussed the consequences of loneliness on nurses’ physical and mental health, job performance, and financial and systemic implications for healthcare institutions. It evaluates the role of the workplace environment. It explores various coping strategies and interventions to manage loneliness, including self-help techniques, formal support structures, workplace programs, and technology-based solutions. The review revealed that factors influencing loneliness include social, environmental, and cultural elements. Studies highlight that being widowed, divorced, older, male, or from an immigrant background, low physical activity, unemployment, low-income, and poor-quality relationships are significant predictors of loneliness. Physical health issues like chronic illnesses and mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety also contribute to feelings of loneliness among nurses. We also forward recommendations for healthcare institutions, policy changes, and future research needs, ultimately underscoring the importance of addressing loneliness among nurses. The review concludes with a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize the emotional well-being of nurses, fostering a healthcare environment that nurtures resilience and thereby enhances the quality of patient care.
Assessment of nurses' compliance with patients' rights in South Africa : a scoping review
(Oxford University Press, 2024-10) Thema, Adolphina M.; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Lavhelani, Ndivhaleni Robert
BACKGROUND: Compliance with Patients’ Rights by nurses is a crucial determinant of how well healthcare services are provided. Nurses are responsible for upholding Patients’ Rights because they spend so much time with patients. Therefore, it is essential to continuously assess nurses’ compliance with Patients’ Rights in healthcare institutions. OBJECTIVES: To outline the breadth and type of existing research on nurses’ compliance with Patients’ Rights as well as to pinpoint any gaps in the body of existing knowledge. METHODS: A scoping review search was done in six electronic databases. For eligibility, articles written in English and focusing on nurses’ compliance with Patients’ Rights in South Africa (SA) were checked and evaluated. Data were taken from eligible study materials in order to compile, evaluate the quality, summarize, and create a narrative summary of the results. RESULTS: The literature collected was 1158 records from six data bases, after deleting 239 duplicates, 919 records remained. A total of 891 records were excluded using title and abstract of the studies. Fifteen articles were included in the final analysis. Four articles were quantitative studies, ten qualitative and one a mixed method. The included studies focused on six Patients’ Rights listed in the Patients’ Rights Charter, which consist of 12 Patients’ Rights. CONCLUSION: Nurses’ compliance with Patients’ Rights is inconsistent and there are limited studies on nurses’ compliance with all Patients’ Rights in SA. More studies are required in future, as seen by the included studies’ inconsistent findings.
Characteristics of moral distress from nurses’ perspectives : an integrative review
(Elsevier, 2024-11) Aljabery, Mohannad; Coetzee-Prinsloo, Isabel M.; Van der Wath, Anna Elizabeth; Al-Hmaimat, Nathira
OBJECTIVE : This integrative review aimed to identify the common characteristics of moral distress in nursing and distinguish it from other types of distress by examining nurses’ perspectives in the literature. These insights will help update existing tools and create new ones to capture moral distress better, guiding the development and implementation of strategies to support nurses in addressing this challenge. METHODS : Whittemore and Knafl’s integrative review method was employed to guide a systematic search for literature in three databases (EBSCO Medline, CINAHL, and PubMed). Additionally, two journals, Bioethics and Nursing Ethics, were manually searched to reduce search bias. The included studies were primary resources published in English between 2018 and 2023, utilizing quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods to examine moral distress’s characteristics, components, and definitions. All of identified studies were screened, extracted, and analyzed independently by two researchers. RESULTS : Nineteen studies were included. The results were grouped into five themes shaping the main characteristics of moral distress: 1) experiencing a moral situation, with five ethically conflicted situations identified, including treatment plans, professional and personal moral values, team dynamics, complex contexts, clinical practices, and patient-centered care; 2) making a moral judgment, where nurses experience moral distress when they cannot act consistently with their values, ethical principles, and moral duties; 3) the presence of constraints, categorized at three levels: individual factors related to the nurse, patient, and patient’s family; team factors related to the team or unit involved; and system factors, including institutional and policy elements; 4) moral wrongdoing, which occurs when nurses are unable to perform the right moral action; and 5) moral suffering, with studies showing that moral distress impacts physical, emotional, and psychological well-being. CONCLUSION : The findings enhance the understanding of moral distress characteristics among nursing staff, highlighting the concept of the crescendo effect, which underscores the cumulative and escalating nature of unresolved moral distress, emphasizing the need to address moral conflicts proactively to prevent the erosion of moral integrity and professional satisfaction.
Ubuntu is a critical component in the fight against human immunodeficiency virus and tuberculosis stigma : nursing students’ perceptions
(MDPI, 2024-02-15) Rasweswe, Melitah Molatelo; Kgatla, Nancy Mamoeng; Ramavhoya, Ireen T.; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; mavis.mulaudzi@up.ac.za
Stigma is one of the documented barriers to achieving universal access to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) prevention, treatment, care, and support programs. The lack of African social theories to emphasize these issues may be the cause of the continent’s failure to reduce stigma. We can use Ubuntu, an African philosophy that emphasizes sociability and ethics, to deepen our understanding of how to reduce HIV- and TB-related stigma in South Africa. In many African regions, Ubuntu values and principles were found to assist in reducing problems related to HIV. Ubuntu is a comprehensive phrase used by Africans to signify the characteristics that incorporate the core human virtues of compassion and humanity. We explored the perceptions of nursing students regarding the use of Ubuntu in the fight against HIV and TB stigma. Qualitative participatory research was used to engage all first- and second-level nursing students enrolled for the 2023 academic year at the selected university in South Africa. Purposive sampling was used to recruit the participants. An interactive workshop was used to gather data. The data from the recordings and flip charts were analysed together. Throughout the study, trustworthiness and ethical principles were upheld. Two primary themes emerged as expressions of Ubuntu in relation to a reduction in HIV and TB stigma and recognition of Ubuntu as a tool to combat stigma associated with HIV and TB. This confirms that within Ubuntu, there are elements that might be applied to reduce stigma attached to HIV and TB.
Women's expectations of infertility care in Ghana : a qualitative study
(Elsevier, 2024-11-18) Armah, Deborah; Van der Wath, Anna Elizabeth; Yazbek, Mariatha; Naab, Florence; annatjie.vanderwath@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Despite the evidence in favour of holistic fertility treatment, barriers to ensuring access to dedicated, comprehensive care, based on women’s needs, still exist, specifically observed in Ghana, the context of this study. OBJECTIVES : This study explored and described the healthcare expectations of women diagnosed with infertility in Ghana. METHOD : An exploratory qualitative design with a purposive sampling technique was used. Participants were recruited from a hospital in Ghana within the Weija-Gbawe constituency and 20 women diagnosed with infertility within their reproductive age participated in the study. Focus group discussions were used to collect data. Data was analyzed through thematic analysis. RESULTS : Women diagnosed with infertility expect to receive holistic healthcare that will foster their well-being and treatment satisfaction. They expect health assessments to be done regularly and outline various healthcare expectations which include psychological, educational, spiritual, social, and financial expectations. Participants expected treatment at dedicated infertility clinics where providers involve their partners in the treatment program. CONCLUSION : The care of women diagnosed with infertility did not fulfil their expectations as most of their needs were overlooked. Holistic care, based on a bio-psychosocial model is recommended to enhance positive fertility treatment experiences and optimal healthcare for women with infertility.
Enablers and barriers for task sharing of mental health care from nurses to community health workers : a scoping review
(Elsevier, 2024-08-14) Thobane, Khalaeng Frans; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Lavhelani, Ndivhaleni Robert; Gundo, Rodwell; frans.thobane@tuks.co.za
BACKGROUND : The World Health Organisation (WHO) and other legislative mandates such as South African Mental Health Care Act 17 of 2002, advocate for mental health services to be rendered at the community level closer to the families. This requires task sharing of mental health activities with community health care workers. OBJECTIVE : To identify the existing literature on enablers and barriers of task sharing of mental health services to community health care workers at the community level. METHODS : The scoping review was guided by Arksey and O’Malley (2005) framework. Literature was searched in the following databases: Academic Search Complete, Health Source: Nursing/Academic Edition, Pubmed, APA PsychInfo, and Medline via Ebscohost. RESULTS : 15 articles were eligible for inclusion; however, 6 articles were excluded following full-text screening because they did not have sufficient information on the task sharing of mental health services. Therefore 9 articles met the inclusion criteria. Seven themes were identified of which three are barriers (individual factors (insufficient training, stigma, and family resistance), organisational factors (lack of supervision, lack of equipment, and work overload) and confidentiality and four are enablers (ongoing training, CHWs are known to the community, collaboration of CHWs with the key stakeholders, and feasibility of task sharing of Mental Health Services with CHWs). CONCLUSION : As evidenced by the results of the reviewed literature, if the barriers can be managed or dealt with it is feasible to implement the task sharing of mental health services to community health care workers at the community level.
Coping strategies of nurses caring for mental health care users displaying violent and aggressive behaviour in mental health care institutions in North West province
(Elsevier, 2024-11-15) Sehularo, Motlagomang Patience; Van der Wath, Anna Elizabeth; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica
BACKGROUND : Mental health care users displaying violent and aggressive behaviour is a serious concern in mental health care institutions. Nurses working in mental health care institutions are more exposed to patient violence compared to health care professionals in general health settings. However, there is limited evidence regarding the strategies used by nurses to cope with violent and aggressive behaviour in mental health care institutions, particularly in the North West province. Aim: The aim of the study was therefore to explore and describe the strategies used by nurses to cope with violent and aggressive behaviour in mental health care institutions in North West province. METHODS : A qualitative-exploratory-descriptive and contextual research design guided the study. Face-to-face semi-structured individual interviews and field notes were used to collect data in August and September 2023 at two public mental health care institutions in North West which is one of the nine provinces in South Africa. The data was analysed by the researcher and an independent coder using thematic analysis. RESULTS : Four themes emerged, namely: factors contributing to violence and aggression, negative experiences in caring for mental health care users displaying violent and aggressive behaviour, coping strategies used by nurses, and suggestions to enhance effective coping with violent and aggressive behaviour. Effective coping strategies mentioned by nurses include problem-focused coping strategies, appraisal-focused coping strategies and socialfocused coping strategies. CONCLUSION : Although nurses had had negative experiences that affected their coping, they also shared effective coping strategies, namely faith-based practices, problem-focused coping strategies, appraisal-focused coping strategies, emotion-focused strategies and social coping.
A scoping review on continuing professional development programs for midwives : optimising management of obstetric emergencies and complications
(BMC, 2025-02) Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Tagutanazvo, Oslinah Buru; Sepeng, Nombulelo Veronica; Mulaudzi, Fhumulani Mavis; Hlongwane, Tsakane; maurine.musie@up.ac.za
BACKGROUND : Midwives play a pivotal role in ensuring safe childbirth, particularly in the management of obstetric emergencies and complications (EmONC). Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programs are essential to keep midwives updated with the latest skills and knowledge, ensuring high-quality maternal care. AIM : The study aimed to map and synthesize evidence on continuing professional development for midwives optimising management of obstetric emergencies and complications to reveal evidence to address the knowledge gap and implementation of policy. METHODS : This scoping review was guided by the adapted version of Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework (2005). We searched databases from 2013 to 2023: PubMed, SCOPUS, Web of Science, EBSCOhost (CINAHL, MEDLINE and Academic search): and ProQuest central. The studies were appraised using mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) version 2018. Content analysis and synthesis of the findings were conducted using Nvivo 12. RESULTS : Of the 752 articles identified through database searching, 31 articles met the inclusion criteria and reported according to the Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. After data extraction, content analysis yielded the following 4 major themes: Types of CPD training programs, Effectiveness of CPD on management of obstetric emergencies, Barriers/Challenges with lack of implementation of CPD programs and Suggestion for implementation of CPD programs. CONCLUSION : The findings revealed the significance of CPD programs in equipping midwives with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle obstetric emergencies effectively. The program can be offered in various approaches including simulation-based training, technology-based simulation, online modules, workshops, and interdisciplinary/interprofessional learning sessions, have shown to be effective. Each method offers unique advantages, such as hands-on practice in simulations and flexibility in online learning with smart applications such as SAFE delivery applications.
Workplace culture of midwives regarding pain management during the first stage of labour
(IFE Center for Psychological Studies, 2024-06) Kgodane, Margaret M.; Yazbek, Mariatha; Heyns, Tanya
BACKGROUND : Severe unbearable pain leads to maternal exhaustion, prolonged labour and foetal distress and needs to be managed. The management of pain during the first stage of labour is affected by workplace culture. It was observed that pain is not relieved during labour, and it was not clear when and how labour pain was assessed, and pain relief implemented. There is value in understanding workplace culture in an organization as change is often necessary. AIM : This paper aims to understand the workplace culture of midwives regarding pain management during the first stage of labour by observing current practices. METHODS : A qualitative structured participant observation was used to observe the labour pain management practice of midwives and doctors in 18 structured sessions lasting over 19 hours in a central hospital in Gauteng province, South Africa. Structured participant observation involved midwives working permanently in the labour ward as co-observers using a creative hermeneutic data analysis. RESULTS : Two main themes emerged from the data collected: pain assessment and isolation. Midwives and doctors assessed labour pain poorly or not at all and did not implement pharmacological or non-pharmacological methods of pain relief. Women in labour were left alone for periods exceeding 30 minutes without a partner or other support person. LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION : This study suggests that the current workplace culture in the labour ward includes not assessing or treating (pharmacological and non-pharmacological) women’s pain during the first stage of labour. Pain management strategies should be collaboratively planned with midwives to improve the management of pain during labour and the attitude towards support persons.
Transgender student being in higher education : an integrative review
(IFE Center for Psychological Studies, 2024-06) Combrinck, Yvonne; Van Wyk, Neltjie C.
Students are part of a diverse higher education community. Their attitudes and beliefs are embedded in interaction with lecturers, fellow-students and curricula exposure. It navigates and prepares them for their professional careers. Transgender students do not associate with society's gendered binary norms and have unique identities and associated needs. This integrative review aimed to illuminate ‘transgender being’ in higher education through thematically analysed literature. The studies were sourced on Medline, PubMed, CINAHL and EBSCO databases. Complementary searches included Google Scholar and Web of Science. The findings of 18 studies were analysed. The participants were conscious of their being-for- themselves and others. They experienced their transgender being as 1) being through ‘non-being’, 2) being conscious of self and others, 3) being vulnerable, and 4) being and ‘to be’. The review results were evidence of the need for gender-inclusive education to affirm dignity, respect and inclusivity for all students pursuing higher education.
Factors contributing to attrition from the medication dispensing programme in the North West Province amongst people living with HIV
(IFE Center for Psychological Studies, 2024-06) Masemola, Olebogeng Mathabo; Musie, Maurine Rofhiwa; Coetzee-Prinsloo, Isabel M.
The Centralised Chronic Medicine Dispensing and Distribution (CCMDD) programme, introduced in South Africa in 2014, works in partnership with the Health Systems Trust (HST) on behalf of the National Department of Health. The aim of the programme is to provide access to stable HIV- infected clients to receive treatment outside of the clinic at pick up points with shorter queues in a convenient area. This study intended to explore and describe the factors that contribute to the attrition rate amongst people living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) from the CCMDD programme in the Bojanala District, Northwest Province. A qualitative, explorative, and descriptive approach guided the study. Twelve people living with HIV were purposively sampled and individual interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Data analysis was done using content analysis. Three main themes emerged from the data, namely patient-related factors, healthcare provider-related factors and resource-related factors, with sub-themes such as financial challenges, patient-nurse interaction, stigmatization, and inadequate knowledge of ARV therapy; resource provider-related issues like medication availability and inconvenient collection periods, addressing these factors is crucial to improving retention in the programme . Results: The factors emerged indicated the need for strategies to address financial support for patients, community education to reduce stigmatization, and enhanced patient education on ARV therapy. Strengthening patient-nurse interactions and ensuring consistent follow-up from the healthcare providers are also essential. Recommendations include ensuring reliable medication availability and flexible collection periods to accommodate patients’ schedules.
Stress and academic engagement among Saudi undergraduate nursing students: The mediating role of emotion regulation and emotional intelligence
(Wiley, 2024-05) Alkharj, Sarah; Alsalamah, Yasir S.; Allari, Rabia; Alharbi, Maryam Saad; Alslamah, Thamer; Babkair, Lisa; Labani, Safiah; Fawaz, Mirna
AIM : To assess the mediating role of emotion regulation and emotional intelligence in the relationship between stress and academic engagement among Saudi undergraduate nursing students. DESIGN : This study employed a quantitative cross-sectional research design. METHODS : The study recruited 367 Saudi undergraduate nursing students at a major Saudi university. Structural equation modelling was used to explore the mediational model. RESULTS : The results of the ANOVA and Welch F-test demonstrated that the emotional intelligence, emotional regulation and academic engagement scores were statistically significantly different according to stress levels (p-values <0.01). Perceived stress has a statistically significant moderate negative correlation with academic engagement and emotional intelligence and a strong negative correlation with emotional regulation. The results also showed that academic engagement had a statistically significant moderate positive association with emotional intelligence and emotional regulation. Results indicate that stress and academic engagement are negatively correlated among Saudi undergraduate nursing students. It focuses on the balancing functions of emotional regulation and emotional intelligence, highlighting their ability to lower stress levels and improve academic engagement. No Patient or Public Contribution.
Perceptions and experiences of nursing students in caring for people living with HIV/AIDS in South Africa : a qualitative study
(Universitas Diponegoro, 2024-04-30) Mabhiza, Ruwadzano Dorcas; Bhana, Varshika; Sedibe, Heather
BACKGROUND : Although previous studies focusing on nurses’ perceptions of caring for people living with HIV (PLHIV) have been conducted in numerous countries, little is known about first-year student nurses’ perceptions and experiences regarding their role in caring for PLHIV in South Africa. To ensure quality care for PLHIV, it is essential to explore first-year student nurses’ roles in caring for PLHIV. PURPOSE : This study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of first-year nursing students on their role in caring for PLHIV in South Africa. METHODS : A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was employed for this study, utilizing a purposive sampling method to recruit 18 participants. These participants were first-year nursing students aged 18 or older, enrolled in a 4-year bachelor’s degree nursing program, and who had completed clinical placements in hospitals. Data collection involved two focus group discussions (FGDs), one comprising eight participants and the other ten participants. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the collected data. RESULTS : Four main themes were drawn from two FGDs, including (1) students’ unpreparedness in their role to care for PLHIV, (2) disclosure practices and student safety concerns, (3) personal backgrounds and attitudes towards PLHIV care, and (4) physical and psychological wellbeing of students while caring for PLHIV. Furthermore, 11 sub-themes were subsequently drawn from these main themes. Thematic sub-themes and individual focus group responses were relied on to reach data saturation despite the small number of FGD sessions. CONCLUSION : First-year nursing students had negative and positive perceptions and experiences when caring for PLHIV. There is a need for these students to acquire adequate theoretical knowledge and practical skills to enhance clinical preparation for their role in clinical facilities. This could improve their perceptions regarding caring for PLHIV in the clinical setting and result in improved care.
Collaborative international nursing writing group : a nonpatriarchal approach
(Sage, 2024-11) Richardson, Sandy; Krueger, Louisa; Richardson, Anna; Coleman, Elizabeth; Ogilvie, Sarah; De La Fosse, Kara; Tobita, Itoko; Van der Wath, Anna Elizabeth; Mondejar-Pont, Meritxell; Mitterdorfer, Anita; De Ruiter, Hans-Peter
This paper offers a critical discussion of the evolution and impact of an international nursing writing group, developed to support nursing faculty and academics globally. Amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the writing group adapted and thrived online with a flattened power structure, and shared influence and acknowledgment of mutual capacity and contribution. The writing group attracted participants from various countries, with international members enriching collaboration, and fostering a global network of nursing scholars. By embracing diverse perspectives and promoting nonpatriarchal approaches to scholarly writing, the International Writing Group became a unique and valuable platform for academic growth and cross-cultural exchange in nursing.
Elements of a care pathway for human trafficking victims in emergency departments : a mapping review
(Wiley, 2025-02) Van Rooy, Leanne; Botma, Yvonne; Filmalter, Cecilia Jacoba; Heyns, Tanya
BACKGROUND : Human trafficking, a form of modern slavery, is a global health problem. Human trafficking victims may need health care while they are being exploited, and traffickers often take victims to emergency departments (EDs) if their injuries and illness prevent them from working. Healthcare professionals in EDs could help combat human trafficking; however, 85% of human trafficking victims in EDs remain unidentified. Implementing a standardized care pathway to improve the identification and care of human trafficking victims may improve the identification of these victims and allow victims to become survivors. AIMS : This mapping review aimed to identify the elements that should be included in a care pathway facilitating the recognition of and response to human trafficking victims in EDs. METHODS : Five electronic databases generated 159 articles and 628 gray literature records, of which 23 primary research reports and five reports from gray literature were included. The following electronic databases were searched: EBSCOhost, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, and PubMed. ProQuest Central and gray literature were records OR Magazines OR Newspapers OR Blogs, Podcasts, AND Websites OR Working Papers OR Conference Papers & Proceedings. The inclusion criteria for the population were adults (≥18 years), human trafficking victims, and sex trafficking victims. The concept, pathway and algorithm, and context of the ED were used. Records were blinded when assessing eligibility. The demographics of the included records were descriptively analyzed. The reports and gray literature were deductively coded and charted. The data extraction tool was based on the emergency nursing framework and was developed before data extraction. Inductive analysis was used to create subthemes, namely, approach to victims, characteristics, red flags, identifying questions, opportunities to be recognized, strategies, approach upon recognition, potential danger, and resources. RESULTS : A holistic care pathway embedded in a person-centered trauma-informed approach was conceptualized. The strategies are based on The Blue Heart and The Blue Campaign 4Ps, including prevention, protection, prosecuting, and partnerships. An evidence-informed approach that is culturally congruent and gender sensitive should be adopted. Healthcare professionals will be able to identify and assess victims, avoid retraumatization, and initiate interprofessional partnerships to provide coordinated care. LINKING EVIDENCE TO ACTION : Human trafficking victims may escape detection in EDs. This mapping review identified elements to be included in a care pathway for recognizing and responding to victims of human trafficking. The care pathway should be built on person-centered and trauma-informed care and include prevention, protection, prosecution, and partnership-building strategies. Moreover, an interprofessional team approach is needed to identify, assess, and care for such victims. Future studies should develop a standardized care pathway for healthcare professionals to recognize and respond to human trafficking victims in emergency departments.
The effect of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination on pregnant women : a scoping review
(AOSIS, 2024-12) Malamule, Mildred M.; Gundo, Rodwell; Mulaudzi, Mavis F.; u13275675@tuks.co.za
BACKGROUND: Globally, reports have shown that pregnant women refuse to receive the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine. This has posed a significant concern given the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. AIM: This study aims to explore the current evidence on the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on pregnant women. METHOD: A scoping review was conducted using Levac et al.’s five-stage framework. Relevant articles were searched in the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus and EBSCOhost (CINAHL) databases. The identified articles were screened based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data from the selected articles were charted and summarised into meaningful units. RESULTS: Twelve articles from developed countries were included in the review. Studies have reported that COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy is generally safe and does not increase the risk of pregnancy complications. There was no significant difference in delivery outcomes between vaccinated and unvaccinated women. Neonatal outcomes were not affected by the vaccination. However, one study identified a potential risk of spontaneous abortion between 6 and 9 weeks of gestation among vaccinated women. CONCLUSION: Coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination is considered safe during pregnancy. While some studies have identified potential associations with certain conditions, the overall benefits of vaccination outweigh the risks. Continued monitoring of the safety and effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines during pregnancy is recommended. Pregnant women should consult healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding vaccination. CONTRIBUTION: The findings of this review may assist in alleviating anxiety and reducing vaccine hesitancy among pregnant women.

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