Indications and Feto-Maternal Outcomes of Caesarean Section at University Calabar Teaching Hospital: A Six Year Review (Published)
Caesarean section is one of the most common surgical procedures. With an increasing prevalence of caesarean section globally, periodic review is pertinent in order to determine the prevalence, indications and outcomes in our environment.The delivery records in the maternity unit of UCTH between 1st January 2013 and 31st December, 2018 were reviewed and relevant data obtained. Data were analyzed and presented as percentages.Caesarean section was the commonest major obstetric operation in university of Calabar Teaching Hospital over the period under review with a rate of 38.8%.The commonest indication being repeat caesarean section which accounted for 29.5% followed by Cephalo-pelvic disproportion (CPD) 17%. A total of 78% clients had emergency caesarean section while 22% of the caesarean sections were elective cases. The study demonstrated a high caesarean section rate in UCTH, Calabar (38.8%). Intensive effort should be invested towards reducing the prevalence by reducing the rate at which primary Caesarean section is performed. This can be achieved by encouraging operative vaginal deliveries; vaginal breech deliveries and vaginal birth after caesarean section to stem the tide of increasing caesarean section rate.
Keywords: Antenatal Care, Calabar, caesarean section, obstructed labour
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Toward’s Child Adoption Amongst Women in Calabar, Cross River State (Published)
Having a child is important among married women in Calabar. Among married women, infertility is the main factor causing childlessness. Child adoption provides an alternative for married women to have children. Thus, the purpose of the study was to explore the perceived barriers of child adoption among women with infertility. The objective is to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of women of reproductive age towards child adoption in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. The study used an exploratory qualitative and quantitative approach to understand the knowledge, attitude and practices towards possible child adoption in the study area. The study was conducted among 200 women attending fertility clinic in General hospital, Calabar in Cross River state. Semi structured interview questionnaire was administeredto 200 consecutive infertile female patients (between February and September,2018) at the General Hospital Calabar who agreed to participate in the study after counseling. Participants were purposively recruited and data collected by individual face-to-face in-depth interviews. The data generated was analyzed by simple percentages, descriptive statistics and simple correlation analysis at 5% probability level. Knowledge of child adoption was relatively very high (92.6%) but out of which only 2.0% of the respondents had adopted a child while 34.5% were willing to adopt in the near future if their condition of childlessness persist.T he correlation coefficient for child adoption was significantly higher, positive and strong in patients are childless and who had suffered infertility for more than 6 years (r=0.92, P<0.001), those with secondary/ tertiary education (r=0.90, P<0.001) and in those with no living child (r=0.89, P<0.001) compared to the non-significant correlation coefficient of those whose aim of adoption was to satisfy their need for domestic chores (r – 0.21;P>0.001) and those whose need a child for errand (r –0.32; P>0.001).Majority of the respondents(77.3%) were not willing to adopt a child and their main reason was that child adoption would not allow them fulfill their conception role as women in addition to the long procedures involve in child adoption. Knowledge of child adoption was high among the respondents but the willingness to adopt a child was low due to the fact that it would not allow them fulfill their conception role as women. There is need to educate and encourageour infertile patients to utilize this cheaper and available option of managinginfertility.There is also the need for public education and special counselling session for husbands and other family members on child adoption as an alternative solution for infertility and childlessness. The success of marriages has largely been premeditated on child bearing in most African society and oftentimes women are at the receiving end of childlessness with possible psychological and physical trauma.
Keywords: Calabar, Cross River State, Knowledge, Women, attitude, child adoption, practice
Assessment of MIS Management of Fund in Health Information Management System in General Hospital, Calabar (Published)
The study examines the “Assessment of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system on Health care delivery: A case study of General Hospital, Calabar”. Three specific objectives were developed as follows: (i) To assess impact of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system in General Hospital, Calabar (ii) Find out the causes and effect of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system in General Hospital, Calabar (iii) To know the Challenges of Health Information management in mismanagement of fund in General Hospital Calabar. The sample for the study consisted of 100 respondents which were randomly selected from 10 Health Information Managers, 10 Doctors, 30 Nurses, 5 Medical Laboratory, Pharmacist 5 and 40 patients respectively from University of Calabar Teaching Hospital. The results show there are impact of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system in General Hospital, Calabar as proved in hypothesis 1. It was affirmed that there are causes and effect of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system in General Hospital, Calabar as proved in hypothesis 2. It was equally revealed that there are Challenges of Health Information management in mismanagement of fund in General Hospital Calabar as proved in hypothesis 3. It was recommended that: (i).That Government should ensure routine auditing in Health Information Management (ii) that Hospital management should ensure that all monies collected are retired properly (iii) that Health Information professionals should not be involved in mismanagement of fund because it is against our professional ethics and practice
Keywords: Calabar, General Hospital, fund health information management system, mis- management
Assessment of Mis- Management of Fund in Health Information Management System in General Hospital, Calabar (Published)
The study examines the “Assessment of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system on Health care delivery: A case study of General Hospital, Calabar”. Three specific objectives were developed as follows: (i) To assess impact of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system in General Hospital, Calabar (ii) Find out the causes and effect of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system in General Hospital, Calabar (iii) To know the Challenges of Health Information management in mismanagement of fund in General Hospital Calabar. The sample for the study consisted of 100 respondents which were randomly selected from 10 Health Information Managers, 10 Doctors, 30 Nurses, 5 Medical Laboratory, Pharmacist 5 and 40 patients respectively from University of Calabar Teaching Hospital. The results show there are impact of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system in General Hospital, Calabar as proved in hypothesis 1. It was affirmed that there are causes and effect of mismanagement of fund in Health Information Management system in General Hospital, Calabar as proved in hypothesis 2. It was equally revealed that there are Challenges of Health Information management in mismanagement of fund in General Hospital Calabar as proved in hypothesis 3. It was recommended that: (i).That Government should ensure routine auditing in Health Information Management (ii) that Hospital management should ensure that all monies collected are retired properly (iii) that Health Information professionals should not be involved in mismanagement of fund because it is against our professional ethics and practice.
Keywords: Calabar, mis- management of fund in health information management system in general hospital
Formalin Content of Three Iced Fish Species (Mackerel, Horse Mackerel and Sadinella) Consumed In Calabar, Nigeria (Published)
The objective of this study is to determine the concentration of Formalin in three common species of iced fish namely; Mackerel, Horse mackerel and Sadinella consumed in Calabar, Cross River State of Nigeria. The aim is to ascertain whether the iced fishes consumed in Calabar contains formalin, and its concentration is within the permissible limits of the World Health Organization (WHO) in order to safeguard the health of the people. To achieve this, the samples were collected from the central market (Watt market) in Calabar and prepared by wet digestion method using a modified Nash’s reagent, and analysed using a UV spectrometer. The results of the analysis revealed that the average concentration of formalin in the three species of iced fish was 1.42, 1.83 and 2.20 mg/L for Mackerel, Horse mackerel and Sadinella respectively. Thus, the Formalin content of the fishes was in the order: Sadinella > Horse mackerel > Mackerel. These results indicate that the concentration of Formalin in the three species of iced fish consumed in the study area is low and within the permissible limit of WHO. Therefore, the consumption of these species of iced fish may not pose any health risk at the moment. However, effort has to be made by relevant authorities or agencies to ensure that Formalin-free ice fishes are not imported, produced or distributed for consumption in the State.
Keywords: Calabar, Concentration, Consumption, formalin, iced fish
Private sector remittances and tourism development in Calabar, Cross River State. (Published)
This study examined Private Sector remittances and tourism development in Calabar, Cross River State. Data for the study was collected through participatory interviews, records from Cross River State Internal Revenue Service, Cross River State Tourism Bureau, journals and textbooks. The data generated were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as tables, charts simple percentages. It was observed that the decline in revenue remittances by private sector to government for tourism development was as a result of government policy on taxation in Calabar, Cross River State. Among recommendations made was that Government should provide a legislation to encourage the private sector organizations to do business and most importantly reduce taxes as these may hinder tourism development.
Keywords: Calabar, Cross River State, Private Sector, Remittance, Tourism Development
Influence of Potassium Iodide Fertilization Rates on Performance and Fortification of Cassava (Manihot Esculenta) in Southeastern Nigeria (Published)
Pot and field experiments were conducted between November 2011 and May 2013 in Calabar, (Southeastern rainforest agro-ecological zone of Nigeria) to determine the effective rate (0, 0.25, 0.50, & 1.0g KI) on agronomic fortification of two cassava varieties (TME 419 and TMS 30555). The designs were a 2×4 factorial experiment laid out in randomised complete block designed with three replicates. Vegetative parameters measured were plant height, leaf area (LA), tuber weight and tuber weight per plot. Iodine content was determined in cassava tuber and processed products (fufu). In both pot and field, applied doses of iodine did not significantly vary the plant height and LA and tuber weight (p≥0.05). Plot yield were not markedly influenced by Iodine levels (p≥0.05). Iodine absorption and retention in tuber flesh and fufu were significantly positively correlated with Iodine doses (p0≥.05 and 0.01). KI, at 2.5g per plant or 25kg/ha favoured iodine retention in tuber and fufu in TME 419 and for TMS 30555, 0.5g per plant or 5.0kg/ha. TME 419 retained more Iodine in tissues than TMS 30555.
Keywords: Agronomic Bio- fortification, Calabar, Iodine rates, cassava
Umbilical Cord Care and Management Outcome among Mothers in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State – Nigeria. (Published)
In developing countries umbilical cord infections constitute a major cause of neonatal morbidity and pose significant risk for mortality Methods of caring for the umbilical cord vary greatly between communities depending on their cultural and religious beliefs, level of education and resources. The risk of cord infection is increased by unhygienic cutting of the cord and application of unclean substances. This study examined the cord management practices and management outcome among mothers in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional community based study was conducted in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. Calabar South is one of the two Local Government Areas that make up Calabar Metropolis with 11 wards. Women of child bearing age were used as population of the study. A sample size of 451 mothers was selected using the snowball method. A structured pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 18.0 at 95% confidence interval. Results: Whereas most of the respondents 224(49.8%) used methylated spirit in cleaning the cord, others used dettol 88(19.6%), saliva and salt 44(9.8%), herbal preparations 44(9.8%). Most of the respondents 314 (69.8%) applied unhygienic substances at the base of the stump after cleaning the cord. Main reason for choice of materials includes to wade off evil spirits and hasten cord separation 270(55.9%). The outcome of cord management showed that majority of the umbilical cords were infected 338 (75.1 %.). Conclusion: Majority of the respondents applied harmful and contaminated materials/ substances to the umbilical cord. Good umbilical cord care practices can lead to improved newborn care while poor umbilical cord care practices may result in neonatal morbidity and mortality. Improving the standard of umbilical cord care among mothers can largely be achieved through health education and follow up visits by nurses after discharge from the health facility.
Keywords: Calabar, Management outcome, Mothers, Nigeria, Umbilical cord care
Umbilical Cord Care and Management Outcome among Mothers in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State – Nigeria (Published)
In developing countries umbilical cord infections constitute a major cause of neonatal morbidity and pose significant risk for mortality Methods of caring for the umbilical cord vary greatly between communities depending on their cultural and religious beliefs, level of education and resources. The risk of cord infection is increased by unhygienic cutting of the cord and application of unclean substances. This study examined the cord management practices and management outcome among mothers in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional community-based study was conducted in Calabar South Local Government Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. Calabar South is one of the two Local Government Areas that make up Calabar Metropolis with 11 wards. Women of child bearing age were used as population of the study. A sample size of 451 mothers was selected using the snowball method. A structured pre-tested interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviation. All analyses were performed using SPSS version 18.0 at 95% confidence interval. Results: Whereas most of the respondents 224(49.8%) used methylated spirit in cleaning the cord, others used dettol 88(19.6%), saliva and salt 44(9.8%), herbal preparations 44(9.8%). Most of the respondents 314 (69.8%) applied unhygienic substances at the base of the stump after cleaning the cord. Main reason for choice of materials includes to wade off evil spirits and hasten cord separation 270(55.9%). The outcome of cord management showed that majority of the umbilical cords were infected 338 (75.1 %.). Conclusion: Majority of the respondents applied harmful and contaminated materials/ substances to the umbilical cord. Good umbilical cord care practices can lead to improved newborn care while poor umbilical cord care practices may result in neonatal morbidity and mortality. Improving the standard of umbilical cord care among mothers can largely be achieved through health education and follow up visits by nurses after discharge from the health facility.
Keywords: Calabar, Management outcome, Mothers, Nigeria, Umbilical cord care
Management Outcome of Uterine Fibroids in Pregnancy in a Secondary Health Facility in Calabar, South-South Nigeria (Published)
Uterine fibroid is the commonest benign tumors of the uterus and may lead to several complications in pregnancy. The objective was to determine the maternal and foetal outcome of fibroids in pregnancy. This prospective study was conducted in Nigerian Navy Hospital, Calabar over 2 year among women with fibroids in pregnancy. Result showed that a total of 889 women booked for antenatal care during the period, of which 72 had fibroids in pregnancy giving the incidence of 8.1%. Majority of the women were within the age group of 30-39 years 39(54.2%) and nulliparae 32(44.4%). A total of 3(4.2%) had 1st trimester miscarriages, 4(5.2%) had preterm delivery, 22(30.6%) had spontaneous normal vaginal delivery at term while 37(51:3%) had caesarean section. In conclusion, uterine fibroid is a common finding in pregnancy and the manifestation varies depending on their size and site. Pregnancies with uterine fibroid are high risks and are commonly associated with complications such as caesarean sections, primary post partum haemorrhage, miscarriage and preterm labour.
Keywords: Calabar, Uterine fibroids, caesarean section, miscarriage, pregnancy
KNOWLEDGE AND ATTITUDE OF PREGNANT WOMEN TOWARDS FOCUSED ANTE NATAL CARE SERVICES IN UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR TEACHING HOSPITAL, CALABAR, CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA (Published)
The study investigated pregnant women’s knowledge and attitude towards focused antenatal care in University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar. Three research questions and two hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The literature was conceptually, empirically and theoretically reviewed based on the main variables under study. The study adopted a descriptive design and the sample size was 174 pregnant women attending antenatal care clinic in UCTH from January – May, 2014. The instrument for data collection was a three section questionnaire. The instrument had a correlation coefficient of 0.79. Questionnaire was administered through face to face interaction and on the spot collection of completed questionnaire. The data collected from questionnaires were analyzed using frequencies and percentages, while chi-square test analysis was used to test the hypotheses. Findings of the study revealed that majority of the respondents had good knowledge and favourable attitude towards focused antenatal care. In testing the hypothesis using chi-square analysis, hypothesis one showed a statistical association between knowledge and attitude towards focused antenatal care, when the chi-square calculated of 20.6 was greater than the critical chi-square of 5.991 at 0.05 level of significance with 2 degrees of freedom. Although knowledge towards focused antenatal care high and attitude was favourable, some weakness still exist which posed as hindrance to utilization. Based on the above, intensive awareness creation on focused antenatal care for pregnant women recommended. Retraining of health workers and monitoring and supervision of health workers to improve on the hindrance identified as barriers to utilization was also recommended.
Keywords: Ante Natal Care Services, Calabar, Cross River State, Knowledge And Attitude, Nigeria, Pregnant Women, Teaching Hospital, University Of Calabar
