Assessment of clinical knowledge and practices in the management of sexually transmitted infections in Johannesburg Metro
Date
2010-03-18T07:23:23Z
Authors
Sibanyoni, Jabhile Maria
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Abstract
Introduction
This study was conducted at selected Primary Health Care clinics in
the Johannesburg Metro. The study explored the issues around
Sexually Transmitted Infections by identifying gaps with regards to
syndromic approach. Proper management and control of STI is crucial
because STI lead to serious complications.
Objectives
To assess clinician knowledge and practices in the management of
sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) in the Johannesburg Metro
District.
Methods
A descriptive (cross-sectional) study involving a retrospective review
of 210 patient records of STI treatment and questionnaire-based
interviews of 38 health care providers of STI services in 22 primary
health care facilities in the Johannesburg Metro District. Data was
collected to measure staff training on STI, provider knowledge of STI
syndromic management, and provider adherence to STI syndromic
management guidelines based on the District STI Quality of Care
Assessment tool.
Results
Of the 38 providers that were interviewed, 29 (76%) were trained in
STI management. Half of these had received their training in STI
management > 4 years prior to this study. The proportion of providers
who correctly stated STI syndromic management were 33 (87.0%) for
penile discharge; 24 (63.0%) for vaginal discharge, 15 (39.0%) for
genital ulcer and 14 (37.0%) for pregnancy with PVD. Of the 210
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patient records reviewed, 148 (70.5%) had prescriptions that were
adherent to STI guidelines.
Conclusion
Clinicians in the public health facilities do have adequate knowledge of
syndromic management of STI. Poor adherence to the national
guidelines for STI management calls for an ongoing and regular
training in STI management in the Johannesburg Metro District.
Description
MPH, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, 2009
Keywords
sexually transmitted diseases, management skills