CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV infection is a critical component in the global effort to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic. In the context of healthcare workers in Nigeria, who play a pivotal role in maternal and child health, understanding the knowledge, practices, and preventive measures regarding the transmission of HIV from mother to child is paramount. This introduction provides a glimpse into the current landscape of PMTCT among healthcare workers in Nigeria, highlighting the importance of their knowledge and practices in ensuring the well-being of both mothers and infants.
The transmission of HIV from mother to child poses a substantial public health challenge, requiring targeted interventions to mitigate its impact. Healthcare workers, as frontline providers of maternal and child health services, are integral to the implementation of PMTCT strategies. Their level of knowledge, adherence to best practices, and commitment to preventive measures directly influence the effectiveness of PMTCT programs. As Nigeria continues to grapple with the burden of HIV/AIDS, understanding the dynamics within the healthcare workforce is crucial for designing context-specific interventions and ensuring the success of PMTCT initiatives (Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria, 2016).
The effectiveness of PMTCT efforts hinges on the intersection of healthcare workers' knowledge and their day-to-day practices. A comprehensive understanding of the current state of knowledge among healthcare workers regarding HIV transmission, antiretroviral therapy, and obstetric practices is foundational to assessing the quality of PMTCT implementation. Furthermore, an exploration of the alignment between theoretical knowledge and practical application sheds light on potential gaps and challenges within healthcare settings. Addressing these gaps is pivotal for enhancing the consistency and impact of PMTCT strategies in Nigeria (Izugbara et al., 2018).
This review aims to consolidate existing literature on the knowledge, practices, and preventive measures related to the transmission of HIV from mother to child among healthcare workers in Nigeria. By synthesizing current evidence, identifying gaps in knowledge and practice, and evaluating the success of preventive measures, the review provides a basis for informed policy recommendations and targeted interventions. The ultimate goal is to contribute to the ongoing efforts to strengthen PMTCT programs and improve maternal and child health outcomes in the context of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV infection is a critical public health goal, and healthcare workers play a pivotal role in its success. However, the effectiveness of PMTCT programs in Nigeria depends significantly on the knowledge, practices, and preventive measures employed by healthcare workers. Despite the implementation of national guidelines for HIV prevention, treatment, and care, there exists a gap in our understanding of the current state of knowledge among healthcare workers regarding PMTCT strategies. Furthermore, the translation of this knowledge into consistent and evidence-based practices remains a challenge within healthcare settings. The gap between theoretical knowledge and practical implementation poses a significant threat to the success of PMTCT initiatives, raising concerns about the potential for increased rates of mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Nigeria.
Several key issues contribute to the problem at hand. First, there is a need to assess the adequacy of the knowledge healthcare workers possess about PMTCT, including their understanding of current guidelines, antiretroviral therapy protocols, and obstetric practices that mitigate transmission risks. Additionally, the practices employed by healthcare workers in the routine delivery of maternal and child health services, especially in the context of HIV-positive mothers, must be scrutinized. Understanding the factors that hinder the effective implementation of preventive measures, such as routine HIV testing, administration of antiretroviral drugs, and adherence to safe obstetric practices, is crucial. Addressing these research gaps is essential for developing targeted interventions that enhance the knowledge and practices of healthcare workers, ultimately improving the outcomes of PMTCT programs in Nigeria. Top of Form
Bottom of Form
1.3 Objectives of the Study
The main objective of the study is to examine [TOPIC HERE]. Specific objectives of the study are:
- 1. To Assess the Level of Knowledge among Healthcare Workers on PMTCT.
- 2. To Examine the Practices of Healthcare Workers in PMTCT Implementation.
- 3. To Evaluate the Effectiveness of Preventive Measures Implemented by Healthcare Workers
1.4 Research Questions
To guide the study and achieve the objectives of the study, the following research questions were formulated:
- What is the current level of knowledge among healthcare workers in Nigeria regarding PMTCT guidelines, antiretroviral therapy protocols, and obstetric practices aimed at preventing the transmission of HIV from mother to child?
- To what extent are healthcare workers adhering to recommended PMTCT practices, including routine HIV testing, antiretroviral drug administration, and safe obstetric practices in maternal and child health services?
- How effective are preventive measures implemented by healthcare workers in reducing the transmission of HIV from mother to child, as evidenced by rates of mother-to-child transmission in healthcare facilities?
1.5 Research Hypothesis
The following research hypothesis was developed and tested for the study:
Ho: There is no statistical significant relationship between knowledge, practice and prevention of HIV Infection from Mother to Child.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The study is important for many reasons. The following are the major stakeholders this paper through its practical and theoretical implications and findings will be of great significance:
Firstly, the paper will benefit major stakeholders and policy makers in the healthcare sector of Nigeria. The various analysis, findings and discussions outlined in this paper will serve as a guide in enabling major positive changes in the industry and sub-sectors.
Secondly, the paper is also beneficial to the organizations used for the research. Since first hand data was gotten and analysed from the organization, they stand a chance to benefit directly from the findings of the study in respect to their various organizations. These findings will fast track growth and enable productivity in the organisations used as a case study.
Finally, the paper will serve as a guide to other researchers willing to research further into the subject matter. Through the conclusions, limitations and gaps identified in the subject matter, other student and independent researchers can have a well laid foundation to conduct further studies.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The study is delimited to University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH). Findings and recommendations from the study reflects the views and opinions of respondents sampled in the area. It may not reflect the entire picture in the population.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The major limitations of the research study are time, financial constraints and delays from respondents. The researcher had difficulties combining lectures with field work. Financial constraints in form of getting adequate funds and sponsors to print questionnaires, hold Focus group discussions and logistics was recorded. Finally, respondents were a bit reluctant in filling questionnaires and submitting them on time. This delayed the project work a bit.
1.9 Organization of the Study
The study is made up of five (5) Chapters. Chapter one of the study gives a general introduction to the subject matter, background to the problem as well as a detailed problem statement of the research. This chapter also sets the objectives of the paper in motion detailing out the significance and scope of the paper.
Chapter Two of the paper entails the review of related literature with regards to corporate governance and integrated reporting. This chapter outlines the conceptual reviews, theoretical reviews and empirical reviews of the study.
Chapter Three centers on the methodologies applied in the study. A more detailed explanation of the research design, population of the study, sample size and technique, data collection method and analysis is discussed in this chapter.
Chapter Four highlights data analysis and interpretation giving the readers a thorough room for the discussion of the practical and theoretical implications of data analyzed in the study.
Chapter Five outlines the findings, conclusions and recommendations of the study. Based on objectives set out, the researcher concludes the paper by answering all research questions set out in the study.
REFERENCES
- Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria. (2016). National Guidelines for HIV Prevention, Treatment, and Care. Abuja, Nigeria.
- Izugbara, C. O., Wekesah, F., Adedini, S. A., Kabiru, C. W., & Zulu, E. M. (2018). HIV-related stigma in non-disclosure of HIV status to sexual partners among reproductive-aged women in Nigeria. African Journal of AIDS Research, 17(2), 161-169. doi:10.2989/16085906.2018.1487805.
