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A discourse analysis study of traditional health practitioners’ role in the treatment of female sexual violence and its mental health sequelae in KwaZulu-Natal

  • Authors: Muthwa, Nqobile
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Women -- Violence against -- South Africa , Sex discrimination against women -- South Africa , Physicians -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63904 , vital:73625
  • Description: South Africa is considered the epicentre of rape, leading to its reputation as the ‘rape capital of the world’. As a way of mitigating the risk of re-victimisation to individuals who have experienced rape, hospital-based post-rape centres were developed to offer services and support to rape victims. The uptake of these services remains scant as issues such as rape stigma, limited knowledge on their availability and alternative health systems limits their usage. In South Africa, there exists medical pluralism, which refers to multiple ways of making sense of illness and treatment seeking methods. It is estimated that around 80% of South Africans utilise the services of traditional health practitioners in conjunction with biomedical health practices or as a standalone service to get alternative solutions for their health needs. Victims of rape need to access a wide range of services such as post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), medical examinations, and emergency contraception. There has been a paucity in research looking into the alternative treatments accessed by rape victims who do not access services in the formal healthcare system. It is against this backdrop that this study explored the construction and treatment formulation of rape by traditional health practitioners. The study focused on the use of language and how it becomes action that influences the services rendered to rape victims. Thematic analysis, discourse and conversational analytical approaches were used to analyse data that emerges from the one-on-one interviews. 15 traditional healers who identified as abathandazi, Izangoma and izinyanga were selected to participate in the present study. The healthworlds framework and social constructionism were used to make sense of how traditional health practitioners construct rape and how the dominant discourses surrounding rape influence how they understand their position as healthcare providers. The main findings of the study illustrated that in the healthworld of traditional healers’ understanding of rape was constructed as ukungcola nobumnyama / impurity and darkness. These discourses spoke to the perception of rape as an aberration as one’s ancestors should prevent traumas and catastrophes from befalling on the individual. When rape occurs, it signalled spiritual problems resulting into a phenomenon where ancestors cannot safeguard the living. Under these discourse rape was also constructed as something that taints, impurifies and contaminates not just the raped individual but their entire bloodline and ancestors. As a result of the discourse surrounding rape, cleansing and purification rituals played a huge role in post-rape care. In addition, traditional health practitioners viewed their role as facilitators in reestablishing the relationship between the raped individual and their ancestors. The study observed that rape victims who share the same healthworld are likely to experience spiritual transgressions following rape which will have long-lasting effects on the psychological health outcomes of victims. The present study recommends a post-rape care model that advocates for collaborative opportunities between biomedical and traditional healthcare practitioners. This model can be integrated into existing post-rape care systems to provide holistic and comprehensive healthcare that addresses biopsychosocial as well as the spiritual and cultural influences of rape. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

A qualitative review on the manner in which psychologists address language barriers in psychological testing with isiXhosa speaking clients

  • Authors: Fouche, Nicoleen Leonie
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Language and languages -- Psychological aspects , Psychological tests -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Counseling psychology
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63835 , vital:73618
  • Description: A racially segregated culture historically influenced the growth of psychological testing and evaluation in South Africa. Thus, South Africa's multicultural and multilingual community poses difficulties for psychologists in their daily work. Most of the psychological tests used by psychologists are predominantly normed in either or only English/Afrikaans. Given the economic and professional resources required to develop new standardised tests for the broader South African population, the current status quo is set to continue for the foreseeable future. Consequently, language barriers pose a challenge when psychometric standardised tests are administered in a language that is different from that of the client, and as a result, psychologists must develop ways to enhance the fairness of these measures for their client base. The avenue of research that was explored is how psychologists overcome the language boundary when assessing clients who speak an indigenous first language, particularly isiXhosa. As such, this study explored this question through qualitative methods. Through purposive sampling, nine psychologists were invited to share their practical expertise on this topic, using semi-structured online interviews. The findings of this study suggested several core themes providing useful methods for other psychologists facing the same challenge, including the challenges with administering psychological tests with isiXhosa clients, the availability of standardised tests in the South African context, and the importance of determining the client’s language proficiency. Five themes with several sub-themes emerged from the study. The study contributes to the currently limited existing body of knowledge, and subsequently to the research area that this study explores - thus further providing guidelines that practitioners can employ when working with clients who are isiXhosa speaking. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

An in vitro assessment of pharmacodynamic interactions between selected herbal extracts and anticancer chemotherapeutic agents

  • Authors: Hwehwe, Nyashadzashe , Swanepoel, Bresler
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Chemotherapy , Herbs -- Therapeutic use , Antineoplastic agents
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63506 , vital:73383
  • Description: Cancer is a disease caused by uncontrolled growth and spreading of abnormal cells to distant body parts. Approximately 19.3 million and 10 million new cancer cases and cancer deaths, respectively were recorded in 2020. Despite advancements in prevention and therapeutic strategies, cancer remains a global health problem. Cancer patients are increasingly seeking complementary and alternative medicines, of which herbal medicines are the most common form of CAM used by patients. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies of herbal medicines in cancer have shown that they have antioxidant and anticancer (antitumor and anti-proliferative) properties. While concurrent use with conventional cancer treatments may improve treatment efficacy, alleviate chemotherapy-related side effects, boost the immune system, or impede drug resistance, it can also prompt drug-herbal interactions, and this may affect the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of the chemotherapeutic drug. This study aimed to determine relevant pharmacodynamic interactions with chemotherapeutic drugs and investigate such interactions' mechanisms. The objectives of the study were to screen the cytotoxicity effects of drug compounds, herbal extracts, and drug-herb combinations, to determine the ability of treatments to induce apoptosis, and to determine the most beneficial treatment. The cytotoxic effects of cisplatin in HeLa cells, tamoxifen in MCF7 cells, 5-fluorouracil in Caco-2 cells, and grapeseed, green tea, fermented rooibos, and green rooibos in all the listed cell lines were evaluated individually and in combination using the bis-Benzamide H 33342 trihydrochloride/propidium iodide (Hoechst 33342/PI) dual staining method. CompuSyn 1.0 Software was used to quantify synergism and antagonism. The mechanism of apoptosis induction of the different synergetic combinations, drug compounds, and herbal extracts was illustrated by quantitative fluorescence image analysis, specifically cell cycle analysis, phosphatidylserine translocation, mitochondrial membrane potential analysis, caspase 3 activation, and reactive oxygen species production using the relevant contrast dyes. Grapeseed displayed cytotoxicity towards MCF7 and HeLa cells (IC50 57.98 and 83.28 μg/mL, respectively). Green tea was only cytotoxic against HeLa cells at an IC50 of 91,92 μg/mL. None of the extracts displayed cytotoxicity against Caco-2 cells (IC50 values > 200μg/mL). If the herbal extracts had inconclusive IC50 values in the three cell lines subsequent experiments were conducted using 100 μg/mL. The results showed that most of the combinations were antagonistic but, some combinations had synergistic or enhancement effects(1:3 for cisplatin with grape seed or green tea and tamoxifen with grapeseed or green tea, and 3:1 for cisplatin with green tea as well as for tamoxifen with fermented rooibos or green rooibos, and all the 1:1 combinations of 5- fluorouracil with all herbal extracts) with a combination index (CI) < 1. Grape seed and green tea were found to induce apoptosis in the three cell lines. Assays that were conducted to detect apoptosis induction showed positive staining for phosphatidylserine (PS), activated caspase 3, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane depolarization. Analysis of the cell cycle showed two things; 1) that grape seed and green tea were apoptotic in HeLa and MCF7 cells only, and 2) the extracts of green tea and green rooibos, and the combinations of grape seed with all drug compounds arrested the cell in more than one phase of the cell cycle. The combinations of grapeseed and green tea potentially induced apoptosis in various manners but those with both rooibos extracts were unclear in all the cell lines. The results for combinations with grapeseed and green tea are promising and provide a basis for further research as combinations of chemotherapeutic drugs and herbal extracts may be effective therapeutic strategies. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Community violence and mental health symptoms among adolescents in South Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

  • Authors: Jameson, Stacey
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Violence -- Psychological aspects , Adolescent psychology , Community psychology , Mental health services
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63868 , vital:73621
  • Description: There is a global prevalence of youth exposure to community violence. This is notably pronounced in South Africa, where children and adolescents face elevated levels of violence. Existing systematic reviews have predominately focused on international contexts, leaving a gap that requires comprehensive analysis within the South African context to understand the situation in comparison to global trends. The objective of this study was to synthesise the available literature on adolescent exposure to community violence and its impact on mental health outcomes in South Africa. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of such exposure among South African adolescents, explore associated internalising and externalising mental health symptoms, and assess the extent of this relationship. A systematic search of electronic databases was conducted, encompassing studies published between 2010 and 2022. Eighteen studies focusing on adolescents aged 10 to 19 years, investigating exposure to community violence and mental health outcomes were included. Meta-analytical procedures revealed that South African adolescents face elevated levels of both witnessing and direct victimisation of community violence, accompanied by heightened mental health symptoms, particularly in depression and posttraumatic stress disorder. Although a moderate positive correlation between community violence exposure and depression was identified, statistical significance was not achieved. Subgroup analyses, to explore gender as a potential moderating factor was conducted. This study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions and policy measures to address the impact of community violence on adolescent mental wellbeing in South Africa. These findings contribute to the existing literature by providing an understanding of the situation in the South African context compared to global estimates, offering recommendations for future research to inform more effective public health strategies. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Early screening for the post intensive care syndrome in a tertiary ICU follow-up clinic in the Eastern Cape

  • Authors: van der Merwe, Elizabeth
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Critical care medicine , Post-traumatic stress disorder -- Patients , Psychology, Pathological
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63915 , vital:73626
  • Description: The Post ICU Syndrome (PICS) is defined as a constellation of new or worsened impairments in physical, cognitive, and/or psychological health which persist after critical care discharge. These deficits are more related to the patients’ intensive care unit (ICU) stay rather than to their original ICU admission diagnosis. Between 25-50% of critical care survivors suffer from PICS. There is a paucity of research on PICS in South Africa (SA). The primary objective of this study is to describe the incidence and co-occurrence of PICS symptoms, as well as the changes in instrumental activities of daily living and life roles in ICU survivors.The study was conducted in a multidisciplinary tertiary ICU in the Eastern Cape. Inclusion criteria were respiratory support for ≥ 48 hours, or a shocked state, and/or organ failure requiring ICU stay for 48 hours. Patients were assessed at six weeks and six months after hospital discharge. Physical impairment was measured by the six-minute walk test and ICU-acquired weakness by the Medical Research Council scale. Instrumental activities of daily living score and employment/educational status were determined. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Impact of Event Scale-Revised questionnaires were used as screening tools for significant psychological symptoms. Screening for neurocognitive impairment was performed with the NeuroScreen application and compared to a matched control group. The Short Form-36 Health-Related Quality of Life questionnaire (HRQOL) was used to determine quality of life at baseline and study visits. 107 patients, half of whom had COVID-19, completed the six-month follow-up. Six months after hospital discharge, six out of ten patients were affected by PICS, five out of every ten suffered from physical impairment, four out of every ten reported significant psychological symptoms, with three out of every ten affected by both. Three out of ten experienced significant chronic pain. Overall, six out of every ten patients experienced significant psychological symptoms at either one or both study visits. Only one in ten had psychological symptoms in isolation at six months. Six out of every ten patients reported a significantly lower health-related quality of life at six months as compared to their baseline. Three out of every ten patients had not returned to their previous remunerative work, studying or home making. Neurocognitive impairment in this cohort was not verified, and this may have been due to the selection of the control group. However, there was a significant improvement in neurocognitive functioning from the six-week to the six-month study visits. Only 15% of patients received rehabilitation therapy after hospital discharge. Female sex, a higher co-morbidity score and an admission diagnosis of trauma were predictors of PICS symptoms. COVID-19 was not found to be associated with a higher incidence of PICS. , Thesis (D.Phil) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Exploring resilience of social workers working within the healthcare system in the Nelson Mandela Metropole, South Africa

  • Authors: Deliwe, Olwethu Paul
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Social workers -- Port Elizabeth (South Africa) , Resilience (Personality trait) , Health services administration -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (South Africa)
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63824 , vital:73617
  • Description: Social workers working in the health care setting must respond to complex patient needs, a fast paced and multidisciplinary work environment, that are frequently not experienced as equalising platforms for the social work discipline. This requires a high level of resilience in social workers to remain responsive to compassionate human care, quality service delivery and selfcare. This study aimed to explore the resilience of social workers in the healthcare sector, in order to address the knowledge and practice gap and contribute to a better understanding of mental healthcare needs and coping resources of social workers, working in this field of service. The study was guided by two theoretical frameworks: The ecological systems theory and resilience theory. Informed by a constructivism research paradigm, the study employed semi-structures in-depth research interviews as a method to collect data with eight social workers as research participants, recruited via purposive research sampling from health and mental health care settings. The key findings indicate that social workers experience various challenges at work that leads to burnout as a result of the complex work that they do, and they are required to contain these and be resilient using different mechanism. All the ethical protocols were observed, and the necessary measures taken to enhance the trustworthiness of the study. The findings make a valuable contribution to the curriculum input for social work training and valuable insights for continuous professional development for social work practitioners in the health care sector. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Exploring the perceptions of coloured Christian lesbian Women of the influence of Christianity on their identity development

  • Authors: Grootboom, Kim Jodie
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Lesbians -- Counseling of. , Homosexuality -- Religious aspect , Gays -- Social conditions
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63857 , vital:73620
  • Description: South Africa is a nation of which the greater number of its citizens are followers of the Christian faith. Coloured people form part of this population, as the majority of Coloured people in South Africa consider themselves to be Christians. In the Christian faith, homosexuality is considered to be a sin and is frowned upon which may result in difficulty navigating identity development of members of the LGBTQIA+ community. This conflict may, in turn, greatly affect the identity development and overall wellness of these individuals who may want to hold onto a religious identify, but are in conflict, as their sexuality falls outside of what is considered acceptable. This research study sought to explore the perceptions of South African Coloured lesbian women, who follow Christianity, regarding the influence of religion on their identity development. This exploration was considered necessary as it contributes to a gap in the literature on the influence that religion has on identity development for a queer person. The research study was qualitative in nature and research participants were recruited by way of the purposive sampling strategy and 12 participants were interviewed. Semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted as the data collection tool to the research study. Ethical clearance to conduct this study, informed consent, voluntary participation, the right to withdraw participation from the research study, anonymity and confidentiality, and no harm of the participants are the ethical points that this study adhered to. The research study used thematic analysis to identify patterns in the data and Braun and Clarke’s data analysis technique was employed. The trustworthiness of this study, was guided by Lincoln and Guba’s four constructs; credibility, dependability, transferability and confirmability. The themes identified in this study were as follows: 1) The imposition on identity (subthemes of guilt and confusion; feelings of being lost and isolated); 2) The significance of race in prejudice against lesbian women; 3) Spiritual transition. The main finding of the aforementioned themes included an underlying understanding amongst they have at some point experienced uneasiness to “coming out” for fear of judgement as Christian lesbians. Although some participants were able to navigate through their identity development, they have experienced confusion and conflict in accepting all the different facets of their identity, simultaneously, due to judgement of other Christians who have imposed a “choose one or the other” mindset upon them. In addition, added minority stress within race factors were identified as a pinning point amongst participants, who felt that their experiences within their sexuality and religious interactions would be different, if they were other races. This highlights the triple minority stress that is faced by marginalised communities in South Africa. Finally, the participants expressed a transition away from religious communities, to a more spiritual relationship with their God, signifying a shift in religious interaction. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Exploring the psychological effects of children exposed to domestic violence: a scoping review

  • Authors: Mudau, Adivhaho
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Family violence -- South Africa , Victims of family violence -- South Africa , Abused children -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63893 , vital:73623
  • Description: An intergenerational sequence of violence exists within families such that children’s direct or indirect experience to domestic violence may result in psychological and behavioural effects in their adulthood. In addition to the implications on children’s emotional and psychological well-being, exposure to domestic violence seems detrimental to children’s expression of emotions. This study aimed to synthesize the type of evidence available on the psychological and emotional effects of domestic violence on children exposed to such experiences. By means of a scoping methodological framework, previously published literature addressing the psychological trauma that children experience due to the exposure to domestic violence was identified. Findings indicate that the consequences on children who have been exposed to domestic violence are broad and can be determined by various factors such as the child’s temperament, environment and genetic predispositions. In this study, 218 studies were screened, with 24 studies assessed for eligibility, whereby only 18 studies met the inclusion criteria for the study. in addition, through the discussion of themes below, it is evident that various factors such as age, cultural differences, gender, etc., play a significant role on how various children can be psychologically affected from exposure to domestic violence. While previous studies have focused on the psychological impacts of domestic violence on the direct victims, the study highlights the gap and attention that should be given to these children, and further encourages limited physical, emotional and any other form of violence that can occur and be potentially harmful to the children exposed to the domestic violence. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, School Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2022
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Exploring the views of selected, unafflicted women from Walvis bay and Windhoek, Namibia, regarding intimate partner killing and its effect on their well-being.

  • Authors: Amadhila,Luise Utuhole
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Intimate partner violence , Gender-based violence , Post-traumatic stress disorder in women
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63653 , vital:73575
  • Description: Intimate Partner Killing (IPK), popularly known as passion killing in certain regions, such as in southern parts of Africa, Europe, and America, and also referred to as intimate partner homicide, is a global concern. In Namibia, the rate at which men take the lives of their intimate partners due to failed romantic relationships has sparked apprehension within the communities. This study delves into the perspectives of unafflicted women in Namibia, shedding light on the broader impact of intimate partner killing on female well-being. Using a qualitative approach, the study conducted face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with 14 participants. Grounded theory was applied to analyse the collected data and form categories from it. The data were transcribed and analysed using codes, thematic analysis, and interpretation. The theoretical frameworks intersectionality theory, social feminist theory, structuralist theory and systems theory underpin this study. The findings reveal that intimate partner killing severely affects women’s mental health, leading to vicarious trauma characterised by fear and anxiety. Participants reported difficulty experiencing positive emotions in their romantic relationships due to the pervasive uncertainty of this growing issue. Intimate partner killing leaves women feeling scared, unsafe, and traumatised, often prompting them to exercise extreme caution in their relationships to avoid becoming victims themselves. Symptoms such as feeling unsafe, scared, and traumatised align with post-traumatic stress and generalised anxiety. The study recommends implementing policy interventions and stringent laws in Namibia to prevent or discourage men from resorting to violence against their loved ones. Moreover, establishing assistance centres staffed with social work and mental health professionals is crucial to counselling and supporting women experiencing post-traumatic stress and anxiety resulting from intimate partner violence. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of behavioural Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Implementation of the world health organization surgical safety checklist in the operating room in a private hospital in the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality

  • Authors: Obeng, Emelia
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: World Health Organization , Operating room nursing , Preoperative care
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63517 , vital:73384
  • Description: The World Health Organisation Surgical Safety Checklist (WHO SSC) was developed to improve teamwork among healthcare professionals and ensure consistent use of safety processes in the operating room (Abbott et al., 2018: 147). The WHO SSC has successfully reduced common and avoidable surgical errors relating to nerve cutting, among others (Jain et al., 2018:7). However, the implementation of the WHO SSC has not been widely acknowledged in South Africa due to specific barriers (Koopman, 2018: 20; Sauls, 2019: 15). To this end, the aim of this study was two-fold: (i) to determine the factors that contribute to the implementation of the WHO SSC among operating room healthcare professionals and (ii) to develop a contextually appropriate process implementation guide that may be used to facilitate utilisation of the WHO SSC in a private operating room healthcare facility. A non-experimental descriptive quantitative approach underpinned by positivism and a descriptive exploratory survey was used to study the factors contributing to implementing the WHO SSC. A self-reported questionnaire was used as the method for data collection. Purposive sampling was adopted by selecting all the 130 operating room staff directly involved in completing the WHO SSC. All 130 respondents completed and returned the questionnaire. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package Software for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 28.0 for Windows (IBM Corp, 2021). The study described four factors (i.e. awareness, relative advantage, complexity, and usability) contributing to the implementation of the WHO SSC. The analysis revealed a significant inter-relationship between two factors (i.e. relative advantage and awareness) and characteristics of the operating room healthcare professionals (regarding highest qualification, current age and work experience). The study’s main contribution to the existing body of knowledge is the proposed process-oriented implementation guide, including a readiness assessment template for effective implementation of the WHO SSC. It is recommended that good knowledge of the WHO SSC should be created by making operating room healthcare professionals aware of the arrangements and interventions by the private hospital to implement the WHO SSC. , Thesis (MCur) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical care & medicinal sciences , 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Prevalence of red blood cell alloantibodies in healthy blood donors: A retrospective study

  • Authors: Bada, Thandolwethu Sarafina
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Blood--Transfusion , Blood donors , Red blood cell alloantibodies
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63688 , vital:73586
  • Description: Background: Blood transfusion is one of the essential supporting therapies in the management of patients and all efforts must be geared towards ensuring greater blood safety. There are studies on the prevalence of red blood cell alloantibodies in numerous transfused patients. However, no research has been done on the population of healthy first-time donors in South Africa who donates blood for transfusion. Red blood cell alloantibodies may be present in the donated units and potentially lead to transfusion reactions or to decreased survival of transfused RBCs. Therefore, it is necessary to know the prevalence of alloantibodies in donors and the clinical significance. Aims and objectives: The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and identity of red blood cell alloantibodies in healthy first-time blood donors in the South African population, as well as to identify them, with the goal of improving blood safety and transfusion support for patients. Materials and methods: This retrospective and observational study investigates healthy first-time blood donors in the South African population over a five-year period, from January 2015 to December 2019. ABO typing and Rh typing were performed using the fully automated immunohaematology analyser BECKMAN COULTER PK7300 (Danaher Corporation, Brea, California). Erytra Eflexis automated system (8-column DG Gel cards) (Diagnostic Grifols, Barcelona, Spain) was used for antibody screening and antibody identification was performed using the RBC 11 Identisera Diana panel sheet. Approval was obtained from the Ethics Committees of Nelson Mandela University, South African National Blood Services and Western Province Blood Services prior to commencement of the study. Results: A total of 497 711 healthy first-time donors, consisting of 209 604 (42%) males and 288 107 (58%) females, were evaluated for irregular antibodies. The maximum number of donors belonged to the age group 18 to 29. Antibody screening results were positive in 849 donors from the entire population investigated, and 603 were RBC alloantibodies with an overall prevalence of 0.12%. The most frequent RBC alloantibody identified was anti-M from the MNS blood group systems, being present in 129 blood donors. Conclusion: The prevalence of RBC alloantibodies in the donor population in the study was 0.12% (603/497 711). As the inclusion criteria was limited, larger studies examining at all donors (first-time and repeated donations) are needed to determine the actual prevalence of alloantibodies in the population of South African donors. , Thesis (MHSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Role of community pharmacies in the management of diabetic foot ulcers in South Africa

  • Authors: Greyling, Cosette
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Foot -- Ulcers -- Treatment , Wounds and injuries -- Treatment , Diabetes -- Complications
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63846 , vital:73619
  • Description: Appropriate wound care and management are essential to prevent complications in patients with diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). It is important to evaluate if patients are getting the necessary therapeutic treatment and counselling at community pharmacies. The primary aim was to determine the role of community pharmacies in South Africa in the management of DFUs. This study used a mixed-method research design combining both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies. In 2023 a questionnaire was distributed to a sample of 823 community pharmacists in South Africa with questions regarding DFUs. Data from the questionnaire were analysed and used in the next phase of the study, which was focus group discussions (FGDs). The FGDs were conducted with a group of pharmacy stakeholders. The response rate for the questionnaire was 18.95% (n=156). Only 105 respondents completed the questionnaire. Majority of the respondents (n=45) were located in Gauteng province, practising in corporate pharmacies (n=88) in urban areas (n=104). Majority of respondents (n=73) indicated that they did not have a clinic inside their pharmacies and 46 respondents indicated that they had a nurse employed in the pharmacy. Most frequently seen chronic wounds in community pharmacies were diabetic wounds and surgical wounds. Majority (n=71) of respondents indicated that they have not attended additional training on DFUs. Respondents indicated that they most often used the internet and other healthcare providers as information resources regarding DFUs. The results also indicated that community pharmacists would like to have more training regarding advanced wound care and that pharmacists do have a role to play when managing DFUs. During two FGDs, two main themes emerged namely “Community pharmacists encounter various challenges when treating patients with DFUs” and “There is a gap in training for community pharmacists in treating DFUs”. The focus group discussion (FGD) results complemented the questionnaire survey results. Since there is limited research published in South Africa on the role of community pharmacies managing DFUs, this study indicated that there is a need for additional training on DFUs for pharmacists working in community pharmacies in South Africa. , Thesis (M.Pharm) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Clinical Care & Medicinal Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The curious case of Albert Ellis: a psychobiographical case study

  • Authors: van Rensburg, Philip
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Psychotherapy , Ellis, Albert -- Interviews , Rational emotive behavior therapy
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63928 , vital:73627
  • Description: Although much has been written on the life and work of American psychologist Albert Ellis, none of the literature adopts a specific psychobiographical framework and no instrumental case studies on the life of Ellis exist. The primary aim of this psychobiographical case study is to provide a psychobiographical exploration and description of aspects of Albert Ellis’ life within his sociohistorical context. More specifically, Ellis’ upbringing with an immigrant past and the role this has played relating to Ellis’ curiosity towards issues of sex and women. The findings of this psychobiographical case study will also be conveyed to inform on the role that culture and cultural diversity has on how an individual experiences and deals with conflict in their life. A specific area of interest in this study is the culture of the twentieth century, with a special focus on the relationship individuals had with sex, as well as examining the lived experience of immigrants during this time. Aspects of Albert Ellis' life within the sociohistorical context of the twentieth century is illustrated by using certain psychological techniques to the available biographical data. This is accomplished by looking at Ellis' experiences and how they influenced the creation of his own paradigm of rational emotive behaviour therapy. Furthermore, Ellis is conceptualised using Karen Horney’s theory of the dynamic relationship, which exists between cultural processes and conflicting human character traits and their impact on behavioural motivation. This study adopts an inductive research approach. Therefore, it implements an instrumental, single-case research design and is exploratory-descriptive in nature. The subject was chosen through purposive sampling and data will be analysed utilising three linked subprocesses theorised by Miles and Huberman. , Thesis (DPhil) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The perception of pharmacists’ assistants (post-basic) in Gauteng on the appropriateness of the training received to their roles in pharmaceutical manufacturing

  • Authors: Mamabolo, Makgano Tshepiso
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Pharmaceutical industry -- Employees -- Training of -- South Africa , Pharmacy -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Pharmaceutical industry -- South Africa
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63878 , vital:73622
  • Description: The concept of pharmacists as key providers of pharmaceutical services with supporting personnel is quite uniform across the world with differences in the requirements for the registration, scope of practice, and training approach. Pharmacy support personnel have been part of the workforce for many decades in South Africa, practicing in all pharmacy categories. Pharmacy support personnel are required to undergo training in the category in which they are employed and registered. There is limited literature on the scope of practice and training of pharmacy support personnel in pharmaceutical manufacturing. This research project was undertaken to determine the perceptions of pharmacists’ assistants (post-basic) in Gauteng on the appropriateness of the training received to their roles in pharmaceutical manufacturing. A descriptive qualitative design was employed for the study which involved pharmacists’ assistants (post-basic) who were trained and employed in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Semi-structured virtual interviews were conducted with the participants to gain their understanding regarding their experiences and perceptions of the training they received. The perception of participants on whether the training prepared them to their role was interpreted through thematic analysis. Pharmacists’ assistants (post-basic) perceptions regarding the training they have received to support their roles was generally positive, with an emphasis on the comprehensiveness and appropriateness of training. Participants supported their perceptions by providing scenarios in their workplace on how the training has improved their knowledge in performing their job functions and confidence in carrying out their duties. Differences in perceptions regarding preparedness of PAPBs to carry out their roles and responsibilities in pharmaceutical manufacturing were noted and appeared to be dependent on the nature of the role and the activities involved where further on-the-job training might be required. Participants also demonstrated an interest in the expansion of the curriculum to cover more specialised other aspects of the pharmaceutical manufacturing such as quality and regulatory. Participants perceived the education and training to prepare them for the roles and responsibilities in pharmaceutical manufacturing and recommendations for future research studies on training programmes and job functions for PSP were identified. , Thesis (MPharm) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Clinical Care and Medicinal Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

The role of environmental factors, vegetation type, and community knowledge, attitude, and practices on schistosomiasis intermediate host snails’ distribution in the Nelson Mandela Bay water bodies

  • Authors: Campbell, Prince Samkelo
  • Date: 2024-04
  • Subjects: Schistosoma -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (South Africa) , Schistosomiasis -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (South Africa) , Schistosomiasis -- Prevention -- Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (South Africa) , Tropical medicine
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/63813 , vital:73615
  • Description: Schistosomiasis, often known as bilharzia, is a parasitic water-borne disease caused by trematode flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. In 76 endemic countries, including 46 in Africa, over 800 million individuals are at risk of contracting the disease. This study examined the influence of water physicochemical properties, vegetation type and community knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) on the distribution and habitat preference of schistosomiasis intermediate host snails in the communities of Kariega and Kwa Nobuhle, in Nelson Mandela Bay. Methods. A quantitative cross-sectional research design approach was employed in this study. Data for the water physicochemical properties was collected over different seasons over a 9-month period. Eight sampling sites were selected based on their proximity to residential areas. A simple dip method was used for surface water samples and measurements done using a Bante 900P multiparameter meter, Macherey Nagel PF-12 plus, and hardness meter. A 300 μm mesh scoop net on a metal frame was used to capture snails. At each sample site, the predominant plant species were gathered and transported to experts in the Botany Department at Nelson Mandela University for identification. The composition and percentage cover of vegetation were visually estimated and documented. A structured questionnaire was used to elicit responses from 380 participants for the pre- and post-intervention KAP study, using the interview format. Data was analysed using R software (version 4.3.1) and Microsoft Office 365 Excel (2019 version). Results. Freshwater snails were found in all eight water bodies studied; however, schistosomiasis intermediate host snails were only found in three of them while the prevailing species in the study sites were Physa snails. There was no correlation between the number of snails and turbidity (r=-0.070). However, a negative and weak correlation existed between snails and DO (r=-0.185), hardness (r=-0.210), pH (r=-0.235), TDS (r=-0.236), EC (r=-0.240), salinity (r=-0.242), and temperature (r=-0.273). There was also a negative correlation between snails and vegetation coverage (r=-0.127). Of the 380 study participants, only 8.7% were aware of the disease pre-intervention. The paired samples t-test results demonstrate a difference (7.2 ± 2.5) in knowledge scores, and the improvement in knowledge levels post-intervention is statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusion. The study discovered an abundance of Physa snails; considering their biological characteristics and ability to endure, these snails could potentially serve as a biological control agent in locations where the , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2024
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  • Date Issued: 2024-04

Diet and lifestyle changes during the Covid-19 pandemic among health care professionals in the Eastern Cape province

  • Authors: Baloyi, Thabile Valentia
  • Date: 2023-04
  • Subjects: Diet , Lifestyle , Health care Professionals
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66356 , vital:74718
  • Description: Background: The unprecedented COVID-19 era is one that posed drastic changes and challenges to healthcare professionals and healthcare system at large. During disastrous events such as the pandemic, psychosocial stress is expected among health care professionals with the development of different copying mechanisms. It is therefore important to ensure preparedness among these individuals in the event of future pandemics. It is essentials for healthcare professionals to practice healthy dietary habits and regular physical activity which has a positive impact on the immune system by improving its response to viral and bacterial infections and supports mental health. Aim: The aim of the study was to determine dietary and lifestyle changes among healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: A quantitative, descriptive, and explorative research approach was followed. Data was collected through an online survey and analysed using MS Excel® version 2209, SPSS version 27, cross tabulation and Pearson’s chi-square test (p-value<0.05) The questionnaire consisted of four sections that had demographics, lifestyle, dietary and COVID-19 related questions. The study sample were Eastern Cape healthcare professionals. Results: The findings indicated that health care professionals’ dietary habits and lifestyle were negatively affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 37.5% (n=131) had indicated that their weight had increased, while 20.4% (n=71) indicated a decrease in weight during the pandemic. It is understandable that there was weight gain during the pandemic as these professionals consumed more alcohol and fast foods with less exercise. There was a high caffeine consumption and decreased sleep time, which can affect productivity, resilience and mental health. The negative impacts posed by the pandemic need to be mitigated as it has the potential to lead to non-communicable diseases and cause even more of a burden to the health system. Authorities need to work with different healthcare professionals to develop programmes relating to coping mechanisms during any state of disaster and support wellness initiatives. Dietitians should be involved in order to coordinate and promote healthy eating through regular training and education of other HCP. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural & Lifestyle Sciences, 2023
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  • Date Issued: 2023-04

Effect of a school-based health intervention on the non-communicable disease risk status of schoolchildren from disadvantaged communities

  • Authors: Dolley, Danielle
  • Date: 2023-04
  • Subjects: school-based health intervention , Non-communicable diseases , Cardiovascular diseases
  • Language: English
  • Type: Doctoral theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66388 , vital:75063
  • Description: Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and dyslipidaemia are a global public health concern, but more so in low- income countries where the underprivileged are exposed to unhealthy lifestyle practices with limited access to primary health care. Poor dietary habits and physical inactivity have also led to the unprecedented rise of NCD risk factors among school- aged children, which places them at greater risk of disease later in life. These NCDs are largely driven by obesity which has continued to rise in sub-Saharan Africa. However, high levels of undernutrition (such as stunting, underweight and wasting) among children are also present, thereby translating to a dual burden of malnutrition. Promoting regular physical activity (PA) among children is crucial for the health of future generations as it assists in weight reduction, improves insulin sensitivity, reduces blood pressure and is associated with good health and wellbeing. However, physical education (PE), the most obvious vehicle to develop the motor abilities of children, creating opportunities for their sports skills development and educating learners about the importance of PA as a lifestyle, has long been overlooked since the transformation of the South African school curriculum. Furthermore, many in-service PE teachers were not trained to teach the new multi-disciplinary Life Skills and Life Orientation subjects, of which PE forms a small part. Evidence shows that many PE teachers lack the content knowledge and practical skills to implement the subject, which raises the question of how many children, especially those in low-income communities, are participating in quality PE needed to foster healthy lifestyles and prevent the risk of NCDs. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effect of a 20- week school-based health intervention on NCD risk factors of primary schoolchildren from low-income schools in Gqeberha, South Africa. Methods: A cluster randomised control trial was used to test a 20-week intervention, which included three components, namely [1] the KaziKidz toolkit (comprised of pre- prepared PE, health, hygiene and nutrition lessons, equipment for PE, and painted games) [2] a PE coach (human movement science graduate to assist teachers) and [3]two 90-min training workshops. Eight schools were randomly selected to participatein the study: four intervention schools received the KaziKidz toolkit, while the externalsupport components were staggered across three intervention schools, and the Chapter 1: Introduction 2 remaining four schools served as the control group. Altogether 961 children (491 boys and 511 girls) from grades 4 to 6 (8 - 13 years old, M=10.88±1.19 yrs) participated In the study. Demographic information and socio-economic status were captured with a questionnaire. Further measures included height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure, glycated haemoglobin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, accelerometer-based PA and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). Results: Cross-sectional baseline data showed that 43.1% of the sample presented with at least one NCD risk factor, and 17% presented with an elevated clustered risk score (CRS). In addition, higher CRF and moderate to vigorous PA (MVPA) were associated with a lowered CRS whereby an elevated CRS was halved for every 49 min increase in MVPA (95% CI 27 - 224) or every 2.17 ml/kg/min increase in CRF, as determined via estimated VO2max (95% CI 1.66 - 3.12). Overall, 13% of the cohort were underweight, 12% overweight, 7% obese, and 64% engaged in an average of 60 min MVPA per day. The results also identified an inverse association between body mass index categories and the total duration of MVPA achieved per day as children categorised as underweight to normal‐weight (boys: OR = 3.89, 95% CI: 2.18 - 6.93; girls: OR =1.78, 95% CI: 1.13 - 2.80) were more likely to engage in 60 min per day of MVPA than overweight to obese children. Finally, the school-based health intervention results revealed improvements in children's NCD risk factors and increased MVPA levels when the intervention conditions included the workshops and, in some cases, the PE coach. The KaziKidz toolkit (on its own) showed little to no improvements in NCD risk factors and MVPA levels. Conclusion: School-based health interventions have the potential to improve the NCD risk factors of children attending low-income schools in South Africa. These findings also add to our understanding of implementing interventions in settings where teachers are not sufficiently trained to teach PE. Therefore, school-based health interventions, including a toolkit, should be accompanied by workshops to equip educators with the necessary tools to confidently facilitate PE lessons and integrate a range of PE activities into their classrooms. Future research is recommended to determine the long-term sustainability of school-based health interventions and the long-term post-intervention impact on NCD risk factors. , Thesis (PhD) -- Faculty of Health Science, Department of Human Movement Science, 2023
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  • Date Issued: 2023-04

Justification of chest mobile radiographic examinations: : experiences of radiographers in a private radiology practice in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District

  • Authors: Barnardo, Linda-Ann
  • Date: 2023-04
  • Subjects: Radiographer , Radiation protection , Mobile radiographic
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66367 , vital:74719
  • Description: The principle of justification in radiographic imaging aims to best answer a medical question while evaluating the expected benefits of radiation exposure against the probable detriment to the individual patient. The implementation of justification in radiography requires the assessment and evaluation of chest mobile radiographic requests against justification criteria, considering the underpinning principles of radiation: justification, optimisation and authorisation. Diagnostic chest mobile radiographic imaging has been part of healthcare for the last century. Medico-legal requirements by the professional registration body, the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA), identify justification as an advocated and obligatory practice among radiographers. Yet, justification remains an inconsistent practice among South African radiographers due to several challenges in the healthcare setting. The aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of radiographers regarding the justification of chest mobile radiographic examination requests in a private radiology practice in the Nelson Mandela Bay Health District (NMBHD). A qualitative, exploratory-descriptive and contextual research design was used to gain in-depth data of the experiences of South African radiographers regarding the justification of chest mobile radiographic requests. Data were gathered from the participants using unstructured, open-ended, in-depth individual interviews. Data were transcribed verbatim and coded using Tesch’s eight steps of data coding and analysis process. Two principal themes were constructed during data analysis. Theme one identified the barriers and associated affective responses related to the appropriate implementation of justification of mobile chest radiographic examinations. Theme two recognised recommendations to enhance the implementation of justification by radiographers for mobile chest radiographic examinations. The research study was governed by methods to ensure trustworthiness and ethical practices. Based on the findings of this study, four recommendations were developed to assist radiographers to establish whether a request for mobile radiographic chest examinations is appropriately justified, which can contribute to establishing a radiation safety culture in the research setting pertaining to chest mobile radiography. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Clinical Care Sciences, 2023
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  • Date Issued: 2023-04

NSFAS-funded Students’ Financial Wellness Perceptions and Experiences as a Component of Holistic Wellbeing: An Exploratory Study

  • Authors: Peters, Melody
  • Date: 2023-04
  • Subjects: Student wellbeing , Financial wellness , NSFAS-funded students,
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66604 , vital:76028
  • Description: Thousands of students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds are funded annually by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). Since its inception in 1995, it has had great success providing opportunities for those in poverty, working towards rectifying the injustices of Apartheid. However, attrition rates are high. Higher Education research has recently focused on student wellbeing and wellness. The latest research in 2020 from Nelson Mandela University (NMU) recommends further studies in financial wellness, as it lacks representation in the literature. A qualitative, explorative study was conducted with NSFAS-funded student participants who are currently registered at NMU. Six participants were recruited using a snowballing sampling technique and were interviewed using a face-to-face semi-structured interview. The aim was to explore NSFAS-funded students’ perceptions of financial wellness and their financial experiences during university. The financial experiences were reviewed as a component of holistic wellbeing. Prilleltensky’s ecological model of justice and wellbeing provided the theoretical framework with a financial wellness model integrated into Prilleltensky’s model. Data analysis, using thematic analysis, was carried out, and a model of trustworthiness was utilized to ensure the reliability and validity of the qualitative data and research process. Findings from the research conducted revealed that financial wellness is perceived as the meeting of basic needs whereas associations of financial wellness are perceived in greater quality and quantity of possessions and greater psychological wellbeing. Obtaining financial wellness is dependent on family, personal choice, and financial literacy skills. NSFAS errors generates stress and the NSFAS process creates a reciprocal financial relationship between the student and the family system. The university provides institutional support which can assist or create more stress for students. Participants’ financial experiences impact their psychological and social wellbeing, but despite these difficulties participants show resilience when faced with adversity. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, School of Behavioral Sciences, 2023
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  • Date Issued: 2023-04

Parental perceptions of their child’s social and emotional wellness amid a diagnosis of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder

  • Authors: Colloty, Elizabeth
  • Date: 2023-04
  • Subjects: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder , Emotional wellness , Social wellness
  • Language: English
  • Type: Master's theses , text
  • Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/66378 , vital:75037
  • Description: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is well described from a biomedical perspective, which is consistent with the typical pharmacological treatment approach. Measures of improvement are for the most part based on the scholastic performance. However, a child’s wellness is not only limited to academic performance, but also involves their functioning outside of the learning environment. It is therefore important to explore alternative measures of social and emotional wellness to support the biomedical treatment of a child. This study explored parental perceptions related to the social and emotional wellness of a diagnosed child, using principles of wellness put forward by Roscoe (2009). It took an instrumental case study approach using a semi-structured interview to gather data with a single participant. The participant is the parent of a child diagnosed with ADHD and was selected through non-probability purposive sampling. Data collection and analysis followed Miles, Huberman, and Saldana’s (2020) data analysis method. Lincoln and Guba’s (1985) model of trustworthiness was used to ensure the integrity of the study. Findings confirmed the prioritisation of academic wellness above that of social and emotional wellness. Parental emotional intelligence is vital to the child’s social and emotional wellness. Parental investment into the child’s exploration of self may further contribute to a positive, realistic and development sense of self which fosters resilience. Based on these findings, a multimodal intervention approach to ADHD is suggested. , Thesis (MA) -- Faculty of Health Science, Department of Behavioral Sciences, 2023
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  • Date Issued: 2023-04
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