GPH-International Journal of Biological & Medicine Science

ASSESSMENT OF HEALTH CARE WASTE TREATEMENT AND DISPOSAL METHODS PRACTICED IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE CENTRES IN YENAGOA BAYELSA STATE, NIGERIA

2024-05-27T09:06:53+00:00

Aim: This study assess healthcare waste treatment and disposal methods practiced in all PHC in Yenagoa Metropolis. Methods: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive study design was used. The study population was (16) PHC in Yenagoa Metropolis. A census sampling technique was adopted to obtain (87) personnel staff in this study. The structured questionnaire was used and (74) was retrieved. Data are presented in frequency tables, figures and percentage. Results: Male were 21(28%) while Female were 53(72%). (5) PHC with 28(38%) responded to the practiced of treatment of HCW before disposal while (11) PHC with 46(62%) responded No treatment practiced of HCW before disposal. Among the twenty eight (28) respondents that revealed the treatment of HCW in their PHC, one (1) PHC uses autoclaving/steam sterilization with 7(25%) while (4) PHC with 21(75%) practiced Decontamination/Chemical Disinfection of HCW as the treatment methods. The study revealed that (10) PHC with (61%) responded to the practice of Open Dumping/Burning while (6) PHC with (39%) practice Disposal at Municipal Transfer Stations as HCW disposal methods. 74(100%) respondents indicated that there is no designated unit established to handle HCW. (4) PHC with (30%) indicated the engagement of Environmental Health Officers (EHO,), (12) PHC with (70%) respondents indicated No engagement of Environmental Health Officers (EHO) in the handling of HCW. Conclusion: Government and policy makers should ensure the training of staff such as Environmental Health Officers in all Primary Healthcare Centers and the provision of required facilities with an established unit for the treatment of Healthcare Waste before disposal.

Determination of ProthrombinGene G20210A Mutation in Deep Venous Thrombosis among Sudanese Patients - Khartoum State

2024-05-30T06:32:45+00:00

Background: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is serious disorders contributing to increased morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, there is, little genetic data from Africa including Sudan. So this study was conducted to investigate the relationship between genetic mutations G20210A in the prothrombin coagulation factor and deep venous thrombosis in Sudanese patients.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study design wascarried out in Khartoum state in the period from December 2014 to May 2018. One hundred of patient group and fifty healthy one were enrolled inthis study. Mutation was detected using conventional PCR depending on restriction enzyme polymorphism technique.

Results: The mutant allele (G/G) was found in 4 (4%) of patients nevertheless, there is no mutant allele was present in control group (P.value=0.152). Moreover, the mixed allele (G/A) was not detected in patients and healthy control.Exclusively, the control group showed only the wild type (A/A).

Conclusion: This study noted a few mutant alleles in patients group and only the wild type (A/A) in control one. However, carrying out a genome-wide associated study is recommended to determine relationship betweenprothrombin gene mutation and frequency of deep vein thrombosisin Sudanese population.

UNMET NEEDS FOR INTENSIVE MEDICAL CARE IN TERTIARY HEALTH INSTITUTIONS: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF THE NIGERIAN SITUATION

2024-06-22T08:48:57+00:00

Intensive medical care, characterized by specialized treatment and close monitoring of critically ill patients, plays a crucial role in improving patient outcomes. This level of care is essential in managing severe health conditions, reducing mortality rates and enhancing recovery prospects. Despite the essential role of intensive care units (ICUs) in managing severe health conditions and improving patient outcomes, these facilities are hampered by numerous systemic issues in Nigeria.

The review highlights the importance of intensive care in managing life-threatening conditions such as severe infections and trauma. However, many Nigerian ICUs operate with outdated or malfunctioning equipment, and there is a critical deficit of intensivists and critical care nurses. Financial limitations further hinder the ability of hospitals to procure necessary medical supplies and maintain infrastructure.

The article also draws comparisons with international practices, noting that many high-income countries have robust ICU systems supported by substantial investments in medical technology and healthcare professional training. These comparisons offer valuable lessons for Nigeria, emphasizing the need for increased financial investment, enhanced training programs, and improved healthcare policies.

The review concludes by recommending comprehensive strategies to address these unmet needs. These include increasing the healthcare budget, implementing national health insurance schemes, upgrading hospital infrastructure, and developing standardized ICU protocols. By adopting these measures, Nigeria can enhance the quality and accessibility of intensive medical care, ultimately improving patient outcomes and strengthening the overall healthcare system.