Background: Paediatric emergencies remain a significant public health concern in Nigeria, especially in rural areas where primary healthcare centres (PHCs) often serve as the sole source of medical care. The ability of healthcare workers in these settings to effectively manage paediatric emergencies is crucial for improving child health outcomes.
Objective: This study aimed to assess the determinants of
skill levels in paediatric emergency management among primary healthcare
workers in Zaria, Nigeria. This study underscores the critical need for
targeted interventions to improve the skills of primary healthcare workers in
managing paediatric emergencies in Zaria, Nigeria.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted
among 139 randomly selected healthcare workers in Sabon Gari and Zaria Local
Government Areas. Data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire that
included socio-demographic characteristics, work experience, and skills in
managing paediatric emergencies. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version
21. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed to analyze the
data. Results: The results revealed that healthcare workers in PHCs in Zaria
exhibited varying levels of skills in managing paediatric emergencies. Several
determinants were identified as influencing their skill levels. Healthcare
workers with higher academic qualifications demonstrated significantly better
skills in managing paediatric emergencies, suggesting that formal education
plays a crucial role in developing the necessary competencies. While experience
can be a valuable asset, the study did not find a strong association between
years of experience and skill levels, indicating that experience alone is not
sufficient for developing the necessary skills. Additional training and support
may be required. The training and mentorship programs provide structured
support and continuous learning opportunities, which are particularly
beneficial in resource-limited settings. Healthcare workers who had received
recent training or participated in continuing medical education (CME) programs
related to paediatric emergency management tended to have higher skill levels,
highlighting the importance of ongoing professional development.
Conclusion: The findings of this study suggest that a combination
of determinants influences the skill levels of primary healthcare workers in
managing paediatric emergencies. While academic qualifications are important,
ongoing training and access to resources are also essential. It is crucial to
address these determinants through targeted interventions to improve the skills
of healthcare workers and enhance the quality of care provided to children in
need. This study underscores the critical need for targeted interventions to
improve the skills of primary healthcare workers in managing paediatric
emergencies in Zaria, Nigeria. By addressing factors such as academic
qualifications, training, resource availability, and work environment,
policymakers and healthcare providers can significantly enhance the quality of
care provided to children in need.
Author (s) Details
Suberu PO
Cardiorespiratory Unit, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, United
Kingdom.
Obohwemu KO
Department of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Global Banking
School/Oxford Brookes University, Birmingham, United Kingdom and PENKUP
Research Institute, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Soyobi VY
Oni Memorial Children Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria and Riverside Nursing Home,
Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
Yakpir MG
Department of Health, Wellbeing & Social Care, Global Banking
School/Oxford Brookes University, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Henry K
IBIC Change, London, United Kingdom.
Ndioho I
Department of Health Professions, Manchester Metropolitan University,
Manchester, United Kingdom.
Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/msti/v6/4341
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