Undergraduate Research in Health Journal
The Undergraduate Research in Health Journal (URHJ) is a bi-annual journal for health sciences students. The URHJ houses research articles, short scientific reports, letters, editorials, personal opinion on topics that were the subject of undergraduate research.
The URHJ is published under an Attribution-Non Commercial International Creative Commons Attribution (CC-BY-NC 4.0) License. Under this license, authors agree to make articles available to users, without permission or fees, for any lawful, non-commercial purpose. Users may read, copy, or re-use published content as long as the author and original place of publication are properly cited.
Copyright (c) 2025 Claudia Naidu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Ubuntu in action: Student societies as catalysts for collaboration and innovation in South African medical schools
Copyright (c) 2025 A Papavarnava, R De Witt, J Kok, X Nokeri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Harnessing artificial intelligence for South African healthcare: Clinical applications and ethical considerations
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a household device over the past few years. More recently, use of AI and specifically large language models has skyrocketed thanks to OpenAI’s ChatGPT and others. Many people use AI’s incredible power for mundane everyday tasks, but it has far greater potential. The adoption of AI into fields such as medicine and healthcare carries extraordinary benefits in terms of helping streamline workflows and aiding in diagnostics that have the potential to save countless lives. While there are numerous benefits there are also significant challenges, ranging from the tangible problems of data and infrastructure to the intangible problems of ethics. Some of the benefits and challenges are exacerbated by the unique context of the South African (SA) environment. This review outlines some of the key clinical applications and ethical considerations required for large-scale AI implementation in the SA health sector.
Copyright (c) 2025 Y Pillay https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Burden of sickle cell disease in paediatric patients admitted to Rundu Intermediate State Hospital, Namibia, over the 2-year period 2020 - 2021
Background. Sickle cell disease (SCD) originated in the malarial regions of the tropics, where carriers are protected against death from malaria and hence enjoy an evolutionary advantage. The βS mutation is the archetypal example of natural selection in humans. Of the total population of Namibia (2.46 million), 72% are living in areas of active malaria transmission. Individuals with SCD suffer from various clinical manifestations. Objectives. To document the clinical presentation and treatment outcome of paediatric patients with SCD admitted to Rundu State Intermediate Hospital in 2020 and 2021. Methods. This was a retrospective cross-sectional study using paediatric hospital records for patients admitted to Rundu Hospital. Results. Over the 2-year study period, a total of 3 168 children were admitted to Rundu Hospital, with 1 527 and 1 641 admitted in 2020 and 2021, respectively. Of these children, 103 had SCD, which constituted a prevalence of 3.3%. Many of the children with SCD were male, aged between 1 and 5 years, and suffering from vaso-occlusive crisis. Conclusion. The burden of SCD among admitted patients at Rundu Hospital was high, and vaso-occlusive crisis was the main clinical manifestation. Patients with SCD had access to adequate management. SCD should be diagnosed in newborns before the development of complications, and comprehensive care must be offered in the future in Namibia.
Copyright (c) 2025 C N Sanzila, R Mashingaidze-Mano https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A South African male cadaver with an azygos lobe on the right lung: a case report
Background. The azygos lobe is a rare anatomical variation of the right lung. This lobe is formed during embryological development but is not a true lobe, since it does not have a separate secondary bronchus. The prevalence of the azygos lobe in South African (SA) cadaveric populations has been reported as 0.5%. Objectives. In this case report, we describe the presence of an azygos lobe in an 81-year-old white SA male who had died of pneumonia. This variation has important clinical significance and can be associated with other congenital abnormalities. Conclusion. Knowledge of anatomical variations of the lung, such as the azygos lobe, is of great importance to prevent misdiagnosis, or complications during surgical interventions.
Copyright (c) 2025 W Maritz, A Scheepers, L Prigge https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia: Mechanisms, resistance, and the evolution of targeted immunotherapy
Anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been the gold standard in the treatment of B-cell malignancies since their inception, most notably in the case of rituximab and related chimeric antibodies. However, a particular subtype of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), has shown comparatively poor outcomes. Its slow-paced, indolent nature makes diagnosis difficult, while its evasive nature complicates therapy. The rise in the incidence of CLL, in South Africa in particular, has emphasised the need for ongoing research. Despite the availability of revolutionary therapies that have transformed outcomes in other NHL subtypes, treatment of CLL remains largely experimental. A comprehensive and systematic literature review was therefore conducted to illustrate the impact of anti-CD20 and to explore potential avenues for improvement in the field. Studies illustrate that the treatment landscape has grown considerably, from the introduction of newer mAbs such as obinutuzumab to altogether different modalities such as bispecifics, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, and even a combination of these immunotherapy regimens. However, the largely experimental nature of these strategies and the ability of CLL to manufacture its tumour microenvironment continue to limit progress. It is evident that although great strides have been made, future breakthroughs via exploitation of the molecular pathways and mutations driving CLL will be essential to refine therapeutic approaches and advance the treatment of CLL and B-cell malignancies more broadly.
Copyright (c) 2025 A Sambo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Curiosity does not kill the cat ... it cultivates the clinician
Copyright (c) 2025 A Papavarnava https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Research ethics in Medical and Health Science: A responsibility beyond results. As future healthcare professionals and scientists, undergraduate medical and health science researchers occupy a unique space at the intersection of curiosity, compassion and responsibility. In this space, research ethics is not just a guideline - it’s a commitment to integrity that underpins every experiment, survey and clinical study. In health science research, the stakes are high. Our work has the potential to influence clinical practice, affect patient outcomes and shape public health policy. That’s why ethical conduct in research is not optional - it’s essential.
Copyright (c) 2025 O Vainio https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Incidence of anaesthesia-related complications following gynaecological surgery at a tertiary hospital in Pretoria, South Africa
Background. Anaesthesia-related postoperative complications vary widely in severity, ranging from mild issues to those causing permanent disability or death. Contributory factors include comorbidities, anaesthetic technique, and medications administered perioperatively. Objectives. To determine the incidence and nature of anaesthesia-related complications in patients undergoing gynaecological surgery at a South African tertiary hospital. Methods. This was a prospective, descriptive cross-sectional study. Patients undergoing gynaecological surgery who met the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study. The complications were sorted in descending order according to frequency of occurrence. Stata version 18 was used to analyse the data. Results. A total of 149 patients were interviewed, but two were excluded because they had undergone non-gynaecological procedures. All eligible patients were recruited. Their mean (standard deviation) age was 43.7 (12.42) years. HIV infection and hypertension were the most common comorbidities. Of the 147 patients, 54.4% (n=80) had an abdominal hysterectomy under general anaesthesia. An endotracheal tube was used in 88.4% of the patients (n=130). The most common complication reported was a sore throat, followed by hoarseness of voice and nausea. None of the patients experienced intraoperative awareness. Conclusion. Sore throat was the complication most often reported. This can be attributed to intubation, since almost all the patients had general anaesthesia with an endotracheal tube inserted. None of our patients reported accidental awareness. Future studies should document airway management variables such as tube size, cuff pressure and intubating stylet use to identify modifiable risk factors.
Copyright (c) 2025 L Mmethi; K Makhubela; A Nkosi, N Hlophe, L Mdluli, N Mazibuko, M E Allan, M Motiang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exploring waste disposal knowledge and practices of pharmacists and nurses at a selected hospital in South Africa
Background. The correct disposal of healthcare waste is vitally important to protect the environment and public health. Improperly disposed of medical waste can endanger health by polluting the environment, affecting the quality of water resources and transmitting disease. Objectives. To explore the knowledge and practices of pharmacists and nurses regarding waste disposal at a selected hospital in South Africa. Methods. A quantitative design was used for the study. A stratified random sampling method was adopted to select participants, and convenience sampling was used to select the hospital. Data were obtained using a closed-ended questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics with percentages and frequencies, which were presented in graphs and tables. A total sample size of 280 healthcare workers was used. Results. A total of 280 nurses and pharmacists participated in the study, with a response rate of 100%. Most of the participants were female. The majority (n=112; 40.0%) were aged between 30 and 39 years. Most (n=252; 90.0%) understood that medical and general waste should be disposed of separately; to prevent injuries, 244 (87.1%) would dispose of injection syringes in a sharps disposal container, 274 (97.9%) would dispose of injection needles in a sharps disposal container, and 218 (77.9%) would dispose of empty medicine vials in a sharps disposal container; and 278 (99.3%) understood proper disposal of gloves contaminated with blood to prevent infections. Conclusion. Most of the participants understood that medical and general waste should be disposed of separately, and they understood and identified proper sharps disposal methods to prevent injuries. Overall, waste disposal knowledge and practice were satisfactory. However, ongoing education and training are recommended to close any gaps in knowledge and encourage consistent practice.
General waste gloves, infection waste, injection needles, medical waste, nurses, pharmacists, sharp waste, vials, waste disposal
Copyright (c) 2025 D A Mello, M F Masocha, I N Lubisi, M K Mokobane, M P Mushasha, N L Shabangu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Assessment of attitudes on medication adherence among patients with epilepsy at the Kilifi Neurology Clinic, Kenya
Background. Attitude plays a critical role in determining patient medication adherence. Medication adherence is an integral aspect of treatment and affects the effectiveness of managing epilepsy. Approximately 50 million people worldwide supper from epilepsy, with 80% of these cases in low- and middle-income countries. It is described as the most common and problematic neurological disorder. Epileptic seizures can be controlled by taking antiepileptic medication as prescribed. Objectives. To determine the influence of attitudes on medication adherence among patients with epilepsy at the Kilifi Neurology Clinic, Kenya. Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. Patients with epilepsy attending the Kilifi Neurology Clinic who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were recruited to participate in the study. Attitude and adherence to treatment were evaluated using a researcher-administered questionnaire and the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale-4 (MMAS). Results. A total of 89 patients with epilepsy participated in the study. The largest age group was <18 years, comprising 37 participants (41.6%), of whom the youngest was 7 years old and the oldest 17. Forty-seven of the patients (52.8%) were male and 42 (47.2%) were female. Perceptions of social stigma regarding their condition and its effect on medication adherence were reported as extreme by 33 of the 89 participants (37.1%). Societal misconceptions also affected medication adherence, with 46 individuals (51.7%) reporting a significant impact. The impact of personal beliefs and values on medication adherence varied among participants. The majority (n=85; 95.5%) had a low level of adherence, reflected in total MMAS scores of 3 or 4. Three participants (3.4%) had a moderate adherence level, with total scores of 1 or 2. Only one participant (1.1%) showed a high level of adherence. Conclusion. The stigma associated with epilepsy produces shame or embarrassment, which can result in reduced health-seeking behaviour. The fear that brews from stigma can further lead patients to skip doses or stop medication completely. The role of attitude in shaping medication adherence cannot be over-emphasised. The study concluded that attitudes influence adherence to epileptic medication in this population group.
Attitudes; Medication adherence; Epileptic
Copyright (c) 2025 M Mshilla Mwaluma, P Kubende, M Mutua https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Sleep quality among undergraduate medical students at a South African university: a cross-sectional study
Background: Poor sleep quality among medical students may affect their overall well-being and academic performance. This study aimed to determine sleep quality among a cohort of undergraduate medical students at one institution during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was done using the validated Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index in the second half of 2021 at one medical school in South Africa. Demographic information (gender, age, marital status, pre-clinical/clinical years of study and living arrangements) were obtained. An email with a link to an online survey was sent to all registered students in the undergraduate medical programme. Results: Data from 164 participants were analysed (response rate 19.0%), with a median age of 20.5 years. The population were mainly female (68.5%) and included pre-clinical (26.9%) and clinical (13.0%) students. The overall sleep quality index was poor among 64.5% of participants, with a median sleep duration of six hours per night. Anxiety and stress were the most common reasons reported for sleep disturbances. No statistically significant differences in sleep quality were found between pre-clinical and clinical students. Conclusion: Poor sleep quality may lead to impaired academic performance and poorer mental health among medical students. This should be addressed by including sleep education when planning interventions to improve the overall well-being of future healthcare professionals.
sleep quality; sleep problems, well-being, undergraduate medical students, academic performance
Copyright (c) 2025 LJ van der Merwe, C van Rooyen, M du Toit, H Geldenhuys, R Human, O Matshediso, R Rodriguez, B van der Vyfer, C van der Merwe, A Uys https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Knowledge of, attitudes towards and perceptions of COVID‑19 vaccination mandates and vaccine uptake among students attending a tertiary institution
Background. In South Africa, vaccinations were made voluntary to the public. At the University of the Western Cape, a hard mandate policy for the COVID-19 vaccine was imposed on all clinical disciplines, which was aligned to the country’s policy. Failure of students to be vaccinated resulted in them not being enrolled for the academic year. Objective. The research project explored the impact and effectiveness on implementing COVID-19 vaccine hard mandate among tertiary students at a time when COVD-19 infection rate was reduced, and the demand for vaccines were low. Method. An online questionnaire was distributed to clinical and non-clinical students, the control group, to assess whether implementing a hard mandate contribute to an increase in vaccine uptake. Clinical students were from the faculties of Dentistry and Community Health Sciences. Non-clinical students were from the faculties of Arts and Law. A 46% response rate was achieved from clinical and non-clinical students. Results. Majority of the participants (88%) were vaccinated. Still, some doubt on the need for vaccination against COVID-19 has been displayed as well as the belief that misinformation was spread. Thus, the results indicated that vaccine hesitancy may have impacted its intake even when it was strongly advised. Conclusion. Imposing mandates does not remove the need for effective messaging to overcome vaccine hesitancy. This indicates that there is a need for proper education regarding the benefits as well as possible risks of vaccination against COVID-19 especially in the health care setting.
COVID-19; vaccines; vaccination; hard mandate; tertiary students
Copyright (c) 2025 NM Lovell, EL Louw, Y Larney, A Madula, K Maharaj, S Khan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Exploring the knowledge and attitudes of final- year medical students regarding sexual and gender minorities at a South African institution
Background. SGMs continue to face systemic prejudice and discrimination, including within healthcare, despite global strides towards acceptance and equality. This reality is especially problematic in the context of the SA Constitution, which provides for the protection of the SGM community and their healthcare needs. Research suggests that the healthcare needs of SGMs are either inadequately, or not, addressed, in the medical curriculum which contributes to the continuation of the marginalisation of SGM healthcare. Objective. To explore the knowledge and attitudes of final-year medical students towards SGM healthcare education in the medical curriculum at a South African medical school in 2021. Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted as an anonymous online survey using Qualtrics and included 5-point Likert scale and open- ended questions. The survey underwent face (n=10 students) and content validation (n=3 clinical staff members), showing acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s α=0.94). Results. Most participants felt that their training on SGM-specific healthcare was insufficient and lacked an understanding of key SGM terms, which suggests a foundational knowledge gap in the SGM-specific content within the curriculum. Potential barriers to a more inclusive curriculum were identified as: a content-heavy curriculum, SGMs being a minority group with little curricular attention, lack of reform in the institutional culture and insufficient SGM representation in the learning environment. Although the low response rate (12.5%) limits the generalisability of the results, these findings offer preliminary insights for further investigation. Conclusion. Our findings suggest a gap in the SGM curriculum, though this conclusion is limited by the low response rate. More research is needed to fully characterise this gap, but the results highlight areas for improvement during curricular review. Given the importance of equitable healthcare, we advocate for the inclusion of SGM healthcare education within the medical curriculum as a formal component to strengthen its teaching, learning and assessment.
Copyright (c) 2024 B Swart, L Niemand, C Gordon, W Cordier https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The impact of language diversity on South African occupational therapy undergraduate students
Copyright (c) 2025 D van den Berg, T Buys https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Advocating for a More Inclusive Environment for LGBTQ+ Learners in Schools
Copyright (c) 2024 J Goulding, T Buys https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The manifestation of spinal tuberculosis and associated vertebral level at Windhoek Central Hospital, Namibia
Background. Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health concern, especially in developing countries such as Namibia, where spinal TB accounts for 50% of all skeletal TB cases. Objective. To determine the clinical manifestations and most common identifiable radiological features of spinal TB, and to identify the most frequently affected vertebral level. This will aid in future diagnoses and prompt treatment regarding spinal TB cases in Namibia. Method. A retrospective cross-sectional study design was adopted to review patient records of individuals diagnosed with spinal TB in 2019 at Windhoek Central Hospital (Namibia). Non-probability sampling was used, and patient demographics, clinical presentation and radiological features were recorded and analysed. Results. Thirty patients (17 female and 13 male) were included in this study. Weight loss was the main clinical complaint (53%), while local tenderness (30%) was the most common physical examination finding. Eighteen of the 30 patients (60%) had varying degrees of neurological deficits. The most common imaging technique used was computed tomography (CT) (n=29, 97%), followed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (3%). Intervertebral disk space/disk involvement was the most common radiological feature identified on imaging (57%), followed by abscess formation (50%). Vertebral lesions involved the lumbar (50%) and the thoracolumbar spine (23%). L1 and L2 were most commonly affected (48% and 44%, respectively), followed by T12 and L3 (32% each). Conclusion. Early stage diagnosis of spinal TB is highly challenging. Patients are often misdiagnosed and/or mismanaged. Thus, it is essential to enhance screening techniques and educate healthcare professionals on common signs, symptoms and radiological features of spinal TB. This will allow prompt detection and help to prevent debilitating complications associated with the disease to manifest.
Copyright (c) 2024 R E Potgieter, A van der Horst, Q Wessels https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Wound complications after vulvar surgery in HIV-positive women treated at a teaching hospital in Johannesburg, South Africa
Vulvectomy is commonly done for vulvar squamous cell cancer. The type of surgery done is also associated with varying rates of wound complications. In the South African medical literature, there is a lack of studies reporting on post vulva surgery wound complications and organisms cultured after vulva wound sepsis in HIV positive individuals. We conducted a descriptive, retrospective, and case control study to determine the incidence of wound complications (primary outcome). The secondary outcome was to determine the nature of the cultured microbial organisms. The study was approved by the Wits Human Research Ethics Committee (M220938). The post-operative complications of vulva surgery were increased in the HIV positive compared to the HIV negative group: higher rates of sepsis (17.9%); wound breakdown (15.9%); flap necrosis (1.1%) and lymphocysts (1.1%).. The organisms cultured in the HIV positive group in descending order of prevalence were Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, and equal prevalence of Morganella morganii, Klebsiella pneumonia, Enterococcus faecium, and Candida albicans. This study may warrant a review of the choice of prophylactic and empiric antibiotics used on HIV positive patients pre- and post-operatively for vulva surgery to improve patient outcomes.
Copyright (c) 2025 T M Kabamba, L Mbodi , L Kgomo, D Odendaal, K-J Rose, M Tshishonga, S Moodley, V Salem, A Chikandiwa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders caused by carryingbackpacks among primary school pupils in Ondo City, Nigeria
Background. School-aged children frequently suffer from musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), and these can be caused by carrying heavy school bags or backpacks. Objectives. To assess the prevalence of MSDs among primary school pupils and determine the association of MSDs with the type of school the children were attending (private or public), and the average weight of the school bags they carried and its relationship with pain intensity. Methods. In a cross-sectional study of 240 primary school pupils aged 8 - 12 years (n=118 public and n=122 private), the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and a structured questionnaire on school bag use were administered to the respondents. The children’s height and weight and the weight of the bags were measured. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, and the alpha level was set at 0.05. Results. Of respondents attending private schools, 68.0% (n=83) reported having experienced pain over the past 12 months and 49.2% (n=60) over the past 7 days. The point prevalence of pain was 22.1% (n=27). For public school respondents, the prevalences were 41.5% (n=49), 36.4% (n=43) and 13.5% (n=16), respectively. The 12-month prevalence for all respondents was 55.0% (n=132). The body parts most affected over the past 12 months were the shoulders in the private schools (37.7%; n=46) and the neck in the public schools (16.1%; n=19). The average weight of the school bags carried by the private and public school pupils was 3.86 kg and 1.91 kg, respectively. There was a significant association between the prevalence of MSDs and the type of school over 12 months (χ²=149.197; p=0.000) and over 7 days (χ²=147.241; p=0.000), and for point prevalence (χ²=150.008; p=0.000). There was a significant relationship between pain intensity and the weight of the backpack (r=0.243; p=0.000).
Copyright (c) 2025 T T Akinjise , A O Ojoawo , A A Awotipe https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The use of biosensors in forensic science
Background: Biosensors have emerged as indispensable tools with vast applications in diverse fields. The aim of this study was to review the use of biosensors in forensic science. Methods. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted, and articles published within the last 15 years were used. Methods: A review of the use of biosensors in forensic science was conducted, and articles published within the last 15 years were used. The articles were reviewed for relevance. The complete text of the articles was therefore examined for data about biosensors. Results: 21 articles were reviewed in this article, 81% were journal articles, 9% were books and 5% were an obituary. The most common uses discussed in the literature were forensic applications (27%), 21% discussed health applications (n=9), environmental and security applications (both discussed in 18%), food applications were discussed in 11% and agricultural uses in 5%. The forensic uses or potential applications and uses discussed are drug or toxicology screening (21%), biological trace screening (including body fluid detection, identification, sweat and blood analysis) (21%, pathogen detection (17%), body detection (12.5%), chemical analysis (12%), latent fingerprint detection (8%) and alcohol detection (8%). Future developments are expected to focus on multiplexing capabilities, nanotechnology integration for portability, and the exploration of newly discovered Cas proteins for bacteria and virus detection. Conclusion: The current research and technological advancements in biosensor technology hold promising prospects for the continued evolution and integration of these analytical devices into forensic sciences and beyond.
Copyright (c) 2025 K R Maloka, K K Hlaise, C van wyk, Y Bismilla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Health maintenance and wellness of older adults with non- communicable diseases during COVID-19 restrictions: Goal 3
Background. The COVID-19 pandemic preventive measures were implemented to curb coronavirus transmission but also impacted the risks and mortality associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Older adults, who are particularly vulnerable, have been especially affected, yet there is limited research on how to maintain their health and wellness. Objectives. To explore the impact of COVID-19 restrictions on the health maintenance and wellness of older adults with NCDs in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. Methods. An exploratory-descriptive qualitative design was used, involving WhatsApp phone calls and nine semi-structured interviews that were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Results. The data revealed two themes: COVID-19-induced health inequalities among older adults and their efforts toward a growth mindset. The findings indicate that the violation of human dignity among older adults with NCDs was exacerbated by limited access to healthcare facilities and fears of infection. However, their willingness to adapt enabled them to make necessary adjustments. Conclusion. The disruption of healthcare services impacted the health maintenance and wellness of older adults with NCDs, prompting them to rely on both their internal and external capacities to strengthen their growth mindset and resilience. This highlights the need for disaster-resilient, people-centred primary health care and universal health coverage for older adults with NCDs.
Copyright (c) 2024 G Dunn, A Hendricks, S Khan, S Kweza, L Mailula, I Meyi, T Mzelemu, T Mthembu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Actual compared with rostered overtime hours of interns at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, South Africa
Extended working hours (working >16 hours continuously) of intern doctors is commonplace globally and has continued to persist in clinical practice since the advent of modern medicine. The reasons for this persistence are innumerous, but principally include the shortage of medical intern doctors and the desire for continuity of care. However, these extended working hours are accompanied by their own set of repercussions. Research on this topic – a comparison of actual versus rostered overtime hours of intern doctors at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH), South Africa – has explored this particular aspect of South African public health care. Data on intern doctor working hours in this setting was collected and analysed, followed by a critical evaluation of their functionality and legality. The principal findings of this study confirm that the number of actual overtime hours worked is greater than the number of rostered overtime hours for intern doctors at CMJAH. This study is in keeping with previous studies, both nationally and internationally, in intern doctors at CMJAH were shown to have worked in excess of the maximum total overtime per month permitted by the HPCSA. In addition, intern doctor working conditions were analysed and deemed not to meet objectively reasonable workplace standards in several different domains. This research study now serves as another article of literature that will contribute to further research into the regulation of intern doctor working hours in South Africa. Further studies in this regard are necessary to substantiate the need for adjustment to intern doctor working hours nationally.
Copyright (c) 2025 K Ramthol, N Erasmus, J Lightfoot , S Madikane , M Persadh, O Zikhali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Factors influencing the utilisation of e-learning among nursing learners at a college in Mombasa, Kenya
Background. The adoption of e-learning assists educators by making lessons more effective, allowing them to maximise the potential for individual learning curves and styles within the classroom. Objective. To determine the factors influencing the adoption of online learning among learners in the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Mombasa campus. Methods. This study adopted a descriptive, cross-sectional study design. The self-administered questionnaire had open- and closed-ended questions. Data were checked for accuracy, consistency and completeness. The data were then cleaned and coded. We analysed the data using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23. Results. Of a total of 185 students, 148 were included in the study and final analysis. All respondents indicated that they had been trained in e-learning. Most (n=96, 64.9%) of the respondents had been trained four times, 29 (19.6%) had been trained once, 15 (10.1%) had been trained twice and 8 (5.4%) had been trained thrice. Most respondents (n=53, 35.8%) were unsure whether training on e-learning is a basic requirement for the campus to establish and adopt a new system effectively. Most respondents (n=73, 49.3%) were unsure whether individual characteristics influence e-learning adoption. There was no significant association between sex and attitude towards e-learning (p=0.178) and no significant association (p=0.685) was observed between the department of study and training of learners on e-learning. Conclusion. We concluded that KMTC has not adopted e-learning fully. The study recommends that top management in this institution should offer their undivided support to the e-learning academic programmes and facilitation. This support could be in the form of extensive training, workshops, policy development and awareness.
Online learning; nursing students;utilization
Copyright (c) 2024 M Mutua, A Muema, M Kivuva https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A retrospective analysis of COVID‐19 cases seen at a medico‐ legal mortuary from March 2020 to February 2022
Background. The global community has grappled with a prolonged pandemic, initiated by the coronavirus outbreak. Understanding the virus’ pathogenicity necessitates a comprehensive analysis of autopsy reports. However, in South Africa (SA), limited research has been conducted on coronavirus, primarily due to safety concerns associated with performing autopsies on COVID-19 cases. Objectives. To analyse demographics, circumstances, chief pathological findings and various causes of death among cases with positive SARS- CoV-2 laboratory results in a medico-legal setting. Methods. This retrospective study analysed autopsy findings from all positive COVID-19 cases observed at a medico-legal mortuary, in SA, from March 2020 to February 2022. Results. Ultimately, 208 cases (age range 19 - 75 years, median 46.1 years, 60.1% male) with positive SARS-Cov-2 laboratory results were seen. All 208 individuals were black, which is representative of the demographics in the community. In 11 cases (72.7% males), death was related to COVID-19. Sudden death was reported in 63% of cases. The most predominant chief pathological finding was features of pneumonia in 45% of cases. Conclusion. Postmortem findings revealed pathological findings mostly in the lungs. These findings contribute to the limited research in SA.
Copyright (c) 2024 M K Mashifane, K K Hlaise, C van wyk, Y Bismilla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Copyright (c) 2023 Claudia s Naidu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
‘What do you want to do after graduation’?
Copyright (c) 2023 E Bouwer https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
A two-year retrospective analysis of the epidemiology of sudden death at a Medico-Legal Mortuary in Tshwane, South Africa, from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2011
Background. Sudden death refers to the unexpected and abrupt loss of life, often due to cardiac causes, occurring within a short time after symptom onset. In Africa, sudden death often leads to upheaval and suspicions within families and communities. Conducting thorough research on the causes and prevention of sudden death is crucial to alleviating these concerns and improving public understanding and trust. Objective. To establish the demographics, circumstances and causes of sudden death in the geographic area served by the mortuary used to collect data. Methods. Records of sudden death cases from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2011 were meticulously reviewed. Results. Preliminary findings indicated that 66% of sudden death cases were male, with the 40 - 49 years age group being the most affected. Most deaths took place between 06:00 and 11:59 in the morning. Acute symptoms commonly preceded these fatalities, which predominately occurred in private residences. The primary causes of sudden death varied, with respiratory incidents being predominant, followed by cardiovascular causes. Additionally, 95% of the cases resulted from acquired diseases, while 3% were associated with genetic factors. Discussion. The epidemiology of sudden death provides insight into its prevalence, patterns and associated risk factors, offering an opportunity to design and implement standard operating procedures for improved quality of professional service, preventative health measures and public health strategies in countries like SA, where comprehensive epidemiological statistics are lacking. Conclusion. The epidemiology of sudden deaths in the region is intricately linked to various clinical and socio-demographic factors. Understanding these parameters provides critical insights for public health planning and intervention strategies. Further research to explore appropriate public health prevention and intervention measures is recommended.
Copyright (c) 2024 R C Dos Santos, K K Hlaise, C van wyk, Y Bismilla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Retrospective analysis of injuries in fatal strangulation cases seen at Ga-Rankuwa Forensic Pathology Service in the period 2016 - 2021
Background. Fatal strangulation victims suffer different injuries, necessitating analysis to aid forensic pathologists, yet studies from South Africa (SA) on this topic are limited. Objective. To analyse injuries sustained by victims and the most used method of strangulation. Methods. This retrospective cross-sectional descriptive study analysed fatal strangulation cases at the Ga-Rankuwa Forensic Pathology Service from 2016 to 2021. Victim data, including demographics, type of strangulation and injury were collected from the mortuary register and autopsy reports. Data were analysed based on sex, race, age group, type of strangulation and type of injury. Results. Ultimately, 41 cases were analysed, representing an incidence of 0.57% of fatal strangulations. Women were twice as likely as men to suffer from strangulation. The highest incidence occurred among individuals aged ≥18 years old (76%). However, it is alarming to note that 24% of the victims were younger than 18 years. Ligature strangulation was found in 46% of cases, while manual strangulation accounted for 54%. Neck injuries were present in 95% of cases, with internal injuries more prevalent than external ones. In 78% of cases, isolated internal injuries were observed, while 22% exhibited injuries to both internal and external neck structures. The number of reported cases gradually increased from 2016 to 2021, with the highest number occurring in 2021. Conclusion. This study contributes to the limited research in SA on injuries sustained by victims of fatal strangulation. Reported cases of strangulation are on the rise with victims sustaining different types of injuries.
Copyright (c) 2024 T O C Sechogo, K K Hlaise, C van wyk, Y Bismilla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0