Claim Missing Document
Check
Articles

Found 7 Documents
Search

Knowledge, Perception and Attitude on Otitis Media Among Parents With Children 5 Years and Below Opoku Agyemang, Cecilia; Cobbinah, Joanitha; Addae Nyame, Henrietta; Owusu Opoku, Abigail; Agyemang Opoku, Oscar
Interdiciplinary Journal and Hummanity (INJURITY) Vol. 2 No. 9 (2023): INJURITY: Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies.
Publisher : Pusat Publikasi Nusantara

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58631/injurity.v2i9.129

Abstract

Otitis media is an inflammation of the middle ear mucosa presenting with symptoms of otalgia, fever, ear tugging, frequent crying at night and ear discharge through a tympanic membrane perforation. Globally, otitis media is a common health problem among children and causes an unpleasant feeling and complications to children. The purpose of this study is to determine knowledge, perception and attitude on otitis media among parents of children five years and below who seek health care at Abuakwa Polyclinic. This study used a quantitative cross-sectional design and 114 parents of children 5 years and below were recruited using non-probability method of convenient sampling. The findings suggest that the surveyed parents had a reasonable level of knowledge regarding otitis media. They generally understood that it is an infection and inflammation of the middle ear, recognized common risk factors, and can identify the typical clinical manifestations. The findings reveal varied perceptions and knowledge among parents regarding otitis media. While there is generally a good understanding of certain aspects such as causative organisms, clinical manifestations, and complications, there are also areas where misconceptions or uncertainty exist, such as the need for antibiotics and the long-term prognosis of the condition. The findings highlight the diverse attitudes of parents towards otitis media. A significant number of parents demonstrate a proactive approach by seeking prompt treatment and opting for hospital care, there are also variations in treatment preferences, with a minority favoring traditional or alternative methods. Factors such as accessibility, waiting times, previous experience, financial constraints, treatment effectiveness were socio-economic factors influencing parents attitude and their choice of where to seek care. The study recommends that ENT professionals in collaboration with the district public health team are to initiate and implement health education programs on otitis media to create more awareness among parents with children 5 years and below
Exploring The Knowledge, Attitude, And Practice Of Parents Of Under-Five Children with Otitis Media at the Mampong Municipal Hospital, Ghana opoku, oscar; Owusu Opoku, Abigail; Opoku Agyemang, Cecilia; Yussif , Sumaila; Okudzeto , Henry
Journal of Applied Nursing and Health Vol. 5 No. 1 (2023): Journal of Applied Nursing and Health
Publisher : Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.55018/janh.v5i1.121

Abstract

Background: The study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and practice of parents of under-five children on otitis media using the Mampong Municipal Hospital.  Methods:  The study used a descriptive qualitative approach. Purposive sampling was used to select 15 participants. The interview guide was employed to gather data and analyze thematically. Results: Parents were aware of otitis media but called in their local dialect with different names. Parents have information about otitis media through the health care centers. Otitis media is caused by children putting things in their ears, playing together, improper bathing of children, swimming, overcrowding, and corporal punishment. It can affect hearing ability, communication, sleeping, appetite, academic performance, and long-term brain damage. Moreover, parents believed that otitis media could be cured. Parents identified health care services as the best way to treat otitis media. Conclusion: The study was limited to only patients of Mampong Municipal Hospital, and the qualitative nature of the research did not permit the generalization of the findings. Explore the management practices of parents on otitis media among children.
Effects Of Non-Existent Ear, Nose, And Throat Clinics On Residents Seeking Health Care At Adankwame Health Centre In Ashanti Region, Ghana Opoku Agyemang, Cecilia; Opoku, Oscar Agyemang; Maamle Osragbo, Rebecca; Alhassan, Ubaidatu; Nyarko Mensah, Olivia; Opoku, Albert
Journal of Applied Nursing and Health Vol. 6 No. 2 (2024): Journal of Applied Nursing and Health
Publisher : Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.55018/janh.v6i2.245

Abstract

Background: Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) problems such as the common cold, Otitis Media, and Tonsillitis are standard worldwide and remain a global burden. Bringing ENT services closer to the community remains a key component of reducing the burden of ENT conditions across low and middle-income countries such as Ghana. Yet a shortage of special ENT clinics and specialists to manage these conditions remains. In light of this, the study aimed to assess the effects of non-existent ENT clinics on residents seeking health care at Adankwame Health Center in the Atwima Nwabiagya North District. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used, using a quantitative approach. The population for the study included residents above 15 years who had visited Adankwame Health Center during the study period. With the convenience sampling technique, 100 respondents were selected for the study. Data was collected with a well-structured questionnaire after an ethical clearance had been sought from the Institutional Review Committee. The data collected was analyzed in frequency tables, pie charts, and graphs using Microsoft Excel 2020 data analysis software and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 25.0 Results: The study concluded that general knowledge and awareness of the ENT clinic were high among residents who attended Adankwame Health Centre. Some physiological effects identified were hearing impairments, chronic ENT conditions, and delayed speech. Parental depression, probably due to children suffering from delayed speech and language, was the psychological effect identified in this study. Conclusion: The financial burden was seen in all aspects, as respondents complained of the high cost of transportation when seeking ENT care from secondary and tertiary facilities outside the Adankwame community. The Health Directorate of Atwima Nwabiagya North District should prioritize extending the establishment of ENT clinics in rural areas.
Cultural and Socioeconomic Influences on Traditional Medicine Utilization for Treatment of Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Conditions Opoku Agyemang, Cecilia; Opoku, Oscar Agyemang; Serwaa Ennin, Anita; Mabakawo, Gifty; Nyarko Mensah, Olivia; Opoku, Albert
Journal of Applied Nursing and Health Vol. 7 No. 1 (2025): Journal of Applied Nursing and Health
Publisher : Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.55018/janh.v7i1.246

Abstract

Background: Traditional medicine is increasing globally, especially in rural communities of developing countries where it is a preferred treatment option. Various factors, including cultural beliefs, cost, accessibility, and social relationships, influence its utilization. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective healthcare strategies. This study aims to assess the factors contributing to using traditional medicine in treating Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) conditions among ENT patients in Kumasi. Methods: A quantitative descriptive survey design was employed, using a structured questionnaire to collect data from 166 respondents selected through convenience sampling. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to present descriptive statistics. Results: The findings indicate that cultural beliefs significantly influence traditional medicine, with 84.9% of respondents associating it with religious and spiritual underpinnings. Other contributing factors included cost, spirituality, social relationships, and interactions with healthcare workers. Conclusion: Cultural beliefs are crucial in shaping treatment choices for ENT conditions. Public awareness campaigns by the Ministry of Health and local health authorities are recommended to educate communities on the benefits and risks of traditional medicine while promoting evidence-based healthcare practices
Allergic Rhinitis in Ghana: Knowledge, Prevention, and Management Among Community Residents Opoku, Oscar Agyemang; Opoku Agyemang, Cecilia; Nyarko Mensah, Olivia; Opoku, Albert; Agyenim Boateng, Linda; Kwakye, Shadrack
Journal of Applied Nursing and Health Vol. 7 No. 2 (2025): Journal of Applied Nursing and Health
Publisher : Chakra Brahmanda Lentera Institute

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.55018/janh.v7i2.249

Abstract

Background: Allergic rhinitis is a common comorbidity associated with respiratory illnesses, including asthma, sinusitis, and otitis media with effusion, and significantly impacts patients’ quality of life. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, preventive practices, and management of allergic rhinitis among residents of Santasi-Apire in the Ashanti Region, Ghana. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a quantitative approach. The target population consisted of individuals aged 15 years and above residing in Santasi-Apire. A total of 100 participants were recruited through convenience sampling. The inclusion criteria included permanent residents aged 15 years or older; individuals with cognitive impairments or those who declined consent were excluded. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire based on the study objectives, which covered variables such as knowledge, preventive measures, and management practices related to allergic rhinitis. Ethical approval was obtained from the Kumasi Metropolitan Health Directorate. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0, with results presented as frequencies and percentages. Results: A total of 48% of respondents misidentified allergic rhinitis as a common cold. Dust was identified as the most prevalent trigger (70%), followed by perfume (22%), pollen (5%), hay (3%), certain foods (3%), and specific drugs (2%). About 65% of participants reported avoiding dusty environments and smoke, while 15% did not engage in any preventive behavior. Sprinkling water on roads to reduce dust was the most commonly practiced preventive measure (52%). In terms of management, 47% used antihistamines, and 39% relied on over-the-counter medications. A minority (2%) reported no form of management. Conclusion:  The study indicates that dust is the primary trigger of allergic rhinitis among Santasi-Apire residents, who predominantly experience rhinorrhea as a symptom. While community members recognize allergic rhinitis as a serious condition, their efforts to prevent and manage it largely rely on environmental control and self-medication. Strengthening public health education on evidence-based management and clinical evaluation is recommended.
Occupational Hazards and Safety Practices among Woodworkers in Sokoban Wood Village, Ghana Opoku Agyemang, Cecilia; Oscar Agyemang Opoku
Journal of Public Health Sciences Vol. 4 No. 01 (2025): Journal of Public Health Sciences
Publisher : The Indonesian Institute of Science and Technology Research

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56741/jphs.v4i01.774

Abstract

The study determined the knowledge of workers on occupational health hazards and safety practices at Sokoban Wood Village in Ghana. A descriptive design with a quantitative approach was adopted. The study employed convenience sampling of the non-probability technique to select respondents to participate in the study. Data was collected from 83 respondents using structured questionnaires and analyzed descriptively with the aid of SPSS software. These findings shed light on the potential risks and challenges faced by the participants, highlighting the importance of occupational safety measures and health education to mitigate these hazards. Woodworkers were aware of occupational hazards associated with their work. The lack of proactive measures in response to noise pollution and the reliance on self-medication for airway-related ailments highlight the need for improved awareness, education, and healthcare services. It was recommended, among other things, that the leaders and managers should link up with local health authorities to provide comprehensive training programs that educate woodworkers about the potential hazards they face in their occupation, particularly related to sawdust and noise exposure. 
Allergic Rhinitis among the Inhabitants of Santasi-Apire in the Ashanti Region, Ghana Opoku Agyemang, Cecilia; Oscar Agyemang Opoku
Journal of Public Health Sciences Vol. 4 No. 01 (2025): Journal of Public Health Sciences
Publisher : The Indonesian Institute of Science and Technology Research

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.56741/jphs.v4i01.776

Abstract

Allergic rhinitis often co-occurs with common illnesses, such as rhinosinusitis, asthma, and otitis media with effusion, which significantly contributes to the severity of these conditions and negatively impacts the individuals’ quality of life. Additionally, the pathogenesis of most upper and lower respiratory illnesses is affected by the presence of allergic rhinitis, according to the World Allergy Organization (WAO). The study aimed to assess the knowledge, prevention, and management of Allergic Rhinitis among inhabitants of Santasi-Apire in the Ashanti Region, Ghana. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study with a quantitative technique. The target population was inhabitants aged 15 years and above. A sample size of 100 was selected for the study using a stratified sampling method. Ethical clearance was sought from Kumasi Metropolitan and the health directorate Committee for data collection using both open and closed types of questionnaires which were structured according to the objectives of the study. Data collected were collated, compiled, and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science Software (SPSS) version 20.0 and results were presented in the form of tables and charts according to their frequencies and percentages. The study discloses that most Allergic Rhinitis cases are triggered by dust, of which rhinorrhea the most is evidenced as the sign and symptom. Inhabitants of the Santasi-Apire community know that allergic rhinitis is a life-threatening condition. However, sprinkling water, avoidance of dusty areas, smoking, and triggers of allergic rhinitis are the preventive measures used by Santasi-Apire inhabitants.