School of Medicine and Health Sciences

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Accessibility and Utilization of the Makueni Care Insurance Program in Achieving Uhc in Makueni County
(Academic Journal of Health Systems and Reform (AJHSR), 2025-07) Kisilu, Mary Syontheke; Musyoka, Felistus; Ong’ombe, Musa Oluoch
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of accessibility on the utilization of the Makueni Care Insurance Program (MCIP) in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Makueni County, Kenya. A descriptive research design was employed. The study targeted 128 hospital administrators and departmental heads, 333 healthcare providers across 16 public hospitals, and 132,500 program users. Using the Yamane formula, a sample of 45 administrators and departmental heads, and 99 healthcare providers was selected. In addition, purposive sampling was used to select 40 beneficiaries from each of four public health facilities: Makueni County Referral Hospital, Kalawa Sub-County Hospital, Makindu Sub-County Hospital, and Kibwezi Sub-County Hospital. Data were collected using structured questionnaires designed for program beneficiaries, administrators, and healthcare providers. The data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 26), and a linear regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the relationship between accessibility and the utilization of the Makueni Care Insurance Program (MCIP). The results showed that accessibility influenced the utilization of the Makueni Care Insurance Program (MCIP) (β = 0.167; p-value = 0.001). To enhance MCIP utilization and advance UHC in Makueni County, improve geographical accessibility, increase community enrollment through sensitization, and reduce waiting times by streamlining services and staffing. These steps will strengthen accessibility and drive higher program participation.
Adoption of Computerised Health Information System Focusing on Kenya’s Health Facilities
(Journal of Biology, Agriculture and Healthcare, 2016) Githiom, Samuel; Muiruri, Lillian; Osuga, Ben
Although the benefits of information technology are clear adapting new information systems to health care has proven difficult globally and rates of use have been limited. With the challenge of inadequate health workers and low quality of service delivery, Information Communication Technology is essential to ensure availability of Information to multiple users and multiple settings. It is also important for Integration of variable types of data media, data legibility, reduced medical errors, complete and quality data. It also enable structured data entry, accurate calculation of processes, provision of tools for decision support and data based analysis. Although Kenya as a developing country has invested in Information Communication Technology with the aim of improving patient care, all indications have shown slow adoption of technology in healthcare industry. Therefore it is important to focus on means of hastening adoption of HIS in order to enhance service delivery in the health sector and hence effective service delivery for Kenyan people
Alcoholic Beverage Use Among Somali Youth Living in Eastleigh, an Urban Suburb in Nairobi, Kenya
(European Journal of Preventive Medicine., 2018) Korio, Abdi Aden; Nyavanga, Eunice Jemalel
Background: Harmful use of alcohol causes a large disease, social and economic burden to societies. Alcohol use is the third largest disease risk factor for deaths among youths between 15-29 years that contribute to 4% of the global burden of disease. Eastleigh also is known as “Little Mogadishu” is a suburb in Nairobi that is mostly inhabited by both Somali Community from Kenya and majorly from migrations from Somalia. It hosts about 30,000 Somali refugees and characterized by extremes of wealth and poverty. Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the prevalence of alcohol use and the patterns of use among Somali Youth living in Easteigh suburb in Nairobi. Method: This is an exploratory cross-sectional study among youth aged between 18-25 years of age that used a face-to-face interview. Results: Findings indicated a high prevalence among those who are male, of younger age, with married parents, born in Eastleigh, with lower educational level, the singles, the unemployed and those with high family income. Alcohol use is comorbid with other licit psychoactive substances that include tobacco products, miraa and shisha. Conclusion: These participants have relatively high alcohol use that is comorbid with other licit psychoactive substances. Recommendations include further studies to be done in this community using standardized instruments to cover a larger area and interventions to target younger youth of below 15 years of age and policy on treatment of young people with mental disorders to include substance abuse as well.
Assessing Factors Hindering Effectiveness of Family MUAC Program on Nutrition Surveillance and Early Detection of Malnutrition Cases Among Children Aged 6-59 Months in Banisa Sub County
(Journal of Medicine, Nursing & Public Health,, 2024-06) Saida Roble Hassan; Masinde, Lily; Mugambi, Lawrence
The Family MUAC Program, which trains mothers and caregivers to use a Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) tape to detect malnutrition in children, has improved nutrition surveillance and early detection of malnourished children. This study assessed the factors hindering the effectiveness of family MUAC programs on nutrition surveillance and detection of malnutrition among children aged 6-59 months in Banisa Sub-County, Mandera County. The study objectives were to assess the influence of mothers' characteristics and socio-economic factors on nutrition surveillance and early detection of malnutrition cases. The study was guided by Cognitive Behavioral Theory (CBT) and adopted a descriptive correlation research design. The target population was 293 mothers from Banisa Sub-County, and the sample size was determined through the census method. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides and analyzed using SPSS version 26. The response rate was 89% (209 out of 236). The findings showed a positive relationship between socioeconomic factors and the effectiveness of family MUAC programs (r(204) = .232, p = .001). On the contrary, there was no significant influence between mothers’ characteristics factors and MUAC programs (r(204) = .030, p = .489). The study recommendations and conclusion aimed at exploring the feasibility and accuracy of incorporating MUAC measurements into family-based programs for detecting and addressing malnutrition, providing valuable insights into the implementation and efficacy of MUAC-based screening initiatives in community settings.
Assessing How the Packaging of Immunization Services Influence Uptake of the Immunization Services in Selected Health Facilities of Kajiado North Sub-County Kenya
(International Journal of Scientific Research in Science, Engineering and Technology IJSRSET, 2016) Kipngetich, Toweett John; Tenambergen, Wanja Mwaura; Adoyo, Maureen Atieno
Background: Immunization as a preventive measure to diseases is vital to organizational performance. Among the six pillars of the health system, this research focused on service delivery. A desk review indicated that there was low immunization coverage in the County. The objectives of the study was to determine how the cultural values, packaging of immunization and health promotion supports the uptake of immunization services Methods: A cross-sectional study utilizing a guided questionnaire, targeting 280 mothers and an interview guide targeting 9 health workers were used. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 21 using descriptive statistics. Qualitative analysis was done by thematic content analysis and framework analysis. Results: Majority of the respondents (mothers) were young with a mean age of 26 years. 233 (83%) agreed that immunization program is well explained to them when they visit health facilities. More than half 183(65.4%) of mothers got the information about immunization through continuous health education routinely offered in health facilities, whereas a significantly low 39 (13.9%) mothers got the immunization information through community health promotion. The correlation of health education with awareness indicated a (P-value = 0.406**) A p-value of 0.209** indicates that frequent visits to the health facilities did not influence the awareness of mothers on the immunization services offered in health facilities. Conclusion: The researcher concluded that there is a relationship between immunization uptake and immunization health promotion activities and recommended that the County Government of Kajiado should introduce outreach services and intensify health promotion activities
Assessing the Effects of Social Media Use on the Patient, Institution, and Healthcare Providers in Work–Related Activities at National Spinal Injury Hospital, Nairobi
(Journal of Medicine, Nursing and Public Health, 2024-08) Wambugu, Martha Wangui; Kailemia, Kailemia,; Mulu, Moses
Purpose: Technology has permitted all aspects of life. Social media is a group of applications based on the internet that allows one to create and share content online. Many health professionals have embraced social media as a key communication tool. They use social media to improve health and enhance practice. However, many professionals have not developed ways to extend professionalism in social media platforms, which has consequences for individual healthcare providers, the profession, the organization, and the patients. The study aimed to determine the effects of social media use on the patient, institution, and HCPs in work- related activities at National Spinal Injury Hospital. Methodology: The design of a convergent mixed method was used. This was a Convergent mixed design where quantitative and qualitative data was collected and analyzed. Using stratified random sampling, a sample of 108 healthcare providers meeting eligibility criteria was recruited for quantitative data. Quantitative data was collected and then analyzed, and qualitative data from three key informants was collected using an interview schedule, and analysis was done during a similar timeframe. Results: Healthcare professionals primarily employ social media platforms for knowledge sharing(M=3.61), networking with colleagues (M=3.56), and receiving professional updates(M=3.56). There was high knowledge about ethical social media use(M=4.5), technical proficiency(M=3.83), and a positive attitude toward ethical use of social media(M=4.31). Conclusion and Recommendations: The social media has been predominantly used for knowledge sharing, networking with colleagues, and receiving professional updates, however, the study revealed that some healthcare providers were not observing professionalism on social media platforms by posting patients’ photos and videos without consent. The study recommended that the chief executive officer should enhance regular sensitization programs to ensure all healthcare professionals are knowledgeable about ethical social media use, regardless of their current level of understanding.
Assessing the influence of process interventions of community health volunteers on use of community based health management information systems in selected counties, Kenya.
(International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications,, 2018-08) Mambo, Susan. N.; Odhiambo-Otieno, George W.; Ochieng’-Otieno, George; Mwaura – Tenambergen, Wanja
The World Health Organization (WHO) identified information as one of the six key pillars of an effective health system. In this context, the need to strengthen community health information has been felt globally. African countries have faced the greatest challenges in collecting, analyzing, evaluating and interpreting indicator data to guide evidence based policymaking. The generation of health information starts at the community level through the Community-Based health information system (CbHMIS) (Kaburu, Kaburi, & Okero, 2016). At the community level, this source of information is complete in coverage and in planning and action-oriented (Odhiambo-Otieno, 2005). High health threats characterized by low levels of life expectancy, deteriorating healthcare facilities, high disease incidences, high levels of infant mortality (73/1000) and maternal mortality (488/100,000) specifically on communicable diseases are currently facing Kenya (Flora, Margaret, & Dan, 2017). The importance of effective information use is still a key impediment to these problems, hence affecting greatly the health care service delivery at all levels, and the worst level in its information use is level 1 – the community. In Kenya, According to a situation analysis on the state of Community Health Services in year 2014, the functionality of CbHIS was said to be at 64% which came down considerably to 55% in year 2015 documented by USAID, and that access to quality data was not guaranteed through the current CbHMIS. Some known and assumed barriers include: lack of proper processes, lack of physical access, lack of awareness of what is available; lack of relevance of available information (i.e. not meeting peoples' needs in terms of scope, style or format); lack of time and incentives to access information; and lack of interpretation skills (Flora et al., 2017). Processes forms an integral part of performance (Aqil et al., 2009). In Kenya, the Kenyan Health Information System has had several weaknesses which include weak linkages, data sharing, inadequate feedback, and lack of an operational CBHMIS manual, among others. The purpose of the study was to assess the influence of process interventions of the CHVs on CBHIS use in Kiambu, Kajiado and Nairobi Counties, Kenya. The study objectives were to 1. examine the influence community units assesments on CbHMIS use; 2. Assess the influence of feedback on CbHMIS use; 3. Assess dialogue and action days influence on CbHMIS use; 4. Determine the influence of reporting channels on CbHMIs use. A cross-sectional analytical study design was adopted, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population was 156 active CUs from the 3 counties, from whence a total sample of 122 CUswasderived. Multistage sampling was used to identify the CUs, and systematic random sampling to identify 366 respondents. One Focus Group Discussion with the members of the community health committees and two Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were conducted in each of the three counties. The respondents in the KIIs were County Community Strategy Coordinators and Subcounty Community Strategy Officers. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS to generate univariate and bivariate analysis at p<0.05 significance level and results were presented in form of graphs, frequency tables, figures, and narration. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis based on key themes generated from the objectives. Majority were Females 72.4% n=265; majority attained secondary level education 42.6% (n=156); Non-formal occupation stood at 84.7% (n=310); Use of CBHMIS stood at 56.6% (n=207). Process interventions, 36% of the respondents agreed that the Sub-county team and CU leadership are quick to act on the feedback of our MIS reports. Process interventions (X4) explains 67.4% of total variation in CbHMIS use. (R2 = .674). Attention should be given to reporting channels by ensuring that CUs are technologically enabled to be reporting in a timely manner The study recommends that CUs should be provided with enabling technology and further capacity development in technical, computer and electronic reporting skills
Assessing the supportive role of nurse educators in clinical learning of undergraduate nursing students at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya
(World Wide Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, 2021-09) Otunga, Claire; Kithinji, Winfred; Cheptum, Joyce
Majority of global nursing bodies have reviewed standards on nurse educators’ roles in clinical learning. This study therefore assesses nurse educators’ supportive role and its effect on clinical learning of nursing students at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya. The research design for the study was descriptive cross-sectional. The study’s target population was 82 nurse educators. Data collection was through questionnaires. Data was quantitatively analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings revealed that professional socialization at site, being available and reachable, encouraging of peer learning, supervision of clinical teaching and preceptor-ships were the main supportive roles of nursing educators on nursing students at Kenyatta national Hospital. The findings also demonstrated that being available and reachable, professional socialization at site and supervision of clinical teaching had a positive effect on nursing learning outcomes. Future studies should focus on teaching, administrative and collaborative roles of nursing educators and their effect on learning outcomes of nursing students
Assessment of attitudes towards breastfeeding among Somali women of reproductive age, Garissa County, Kenya
(International Academic Journal of Nutrition & Food Sciences, 2020-07) Khadijanimo, Hussein AHMED
Breast milk is the safest and most common natural food for an infant. Despite efforts by the county and national government as well as non-governmental organisations, breastfeeding uptake in Garissa County was low. This study therefore assessed attitudes towards breastfeeding and the relationship between women’s attitudes and breastfeeding practice. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. . The target population for the study included lactating mothers in Bulla Adaan, Garissa County. A sample size of 373 was calculated using the Yamane (1967) formula. Majority 271 (72.7%) of the respondents had poor breastfeeding practices. In addition, majority 266 (71.3%) of the respondents had negative attitudes towards breastfeeding. There was a significant relationship (χ²=25.020, df=8, p=0.002) between attitudes towards breastfeeding on breastfeeding practices. The study concluded that respondents’ attitudes affected their breastfeeding practices whereby respondents with negative attitudes were highly likely to have poor breastfeeding practices. It was therefore recommended that the government and other private institution in the health sector should carry out mass education particularly the women on the importance of breastfeeding to the infants as this has more benefits to both the mother and the infant as well as the society.
An Assessment of Factors Influencing Clinical Learning among Diploma Nursing Students at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital Eldoret, Kenya
(Open Journal of Nursin, 2025-08) Robert, Salome Nkatha; Mutinda, Agness Kasusu; Machira, Gladys; Kavulavu, Briton Matata
Whereas clinical learning is a vital aspect in nursing education, enabling students to gain practical skills and experience under supervision, several factors can promote or hinder its effectiveness. This study assessed factors influencing clinical learning among diploma nursing students at Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Eldoret, Kenya. This mixed-methods cross-sectional study combined a quantitative survey of 304 nursing students and 4 qualitative focus groups of 6 - 8 participants. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 27 for descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Results indicated that 48.03% of students strongly agreed they effectively applied theoretical knowledge during placements ( x = 4.27, SD = 0.95). Confidence in managing complex cases was moderate ( x = 3.99, SD = 0.93), while anxiety negatively impacted 22.04% of students ( x = 2.90, SD = 1.37). Institutional challenges such as inadequate supervision (37.83% disagreement, x = 2.37) and resource shortages (36.51% disagreement, x = 2.43) significantly hindered learning outcomes (χ2 = 66.000, p < 0.001). Regression analysis identified key predictors: student-related factors (B = 0.124, p = 0.023), training institution factors (B = −0.148, p = 0.003), and clinical factors (B = −0.112, p = 0.034), explaining 12.5% variance (R2 = 12.5%). Thematic findings emphasized supportive preceptorship, adequate resources, and alignment between theory and practice. These insights highlight the need for enhanced mentorship, resource investment, and improved institutional practices to optimize clinical learning and graduate competencies.
Assessment of Institution Related Mentorship Factors Influencing Clinical Competences of Diploma Nursing Students at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, Mombasa
(Journal of Medicine, Nursing & Public Health,, 2023-08) Muthui, Milka Ngonya; Gatere, Ruth; Mutungi, Alice
Nurses work in various healthcare settings, where they provide quality care to patients and interact with other healthcare professionals. To be able to do this, they are required to acquire immense knowledge, clinical competences, and skills during training. Training initiatives should prioritize the acquisition of competences through mentorship. Student mentoring involves the relationship between a student and a mentor, and the actions involved in the acquisition of skills, knowledge, and changes in attitude that culminate in professional growth and competences. This study sought to assess institution-related mentorship factors influencing the clinical competences of nursing students at Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital, Mombasa. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey. The findings revealed that due to the high number of students per mentor, it was difficult to assist all the students assigned to them. This consequently hinders the proper development of expected skills, knowledge, and competences. Secondly, there was no intentional matching of experienced senior qualified staff with students. The students, however, perceived themselves as competent and had acquired average to moderate level competence in communication skills, decision-making, teamwork, performance of nursing skills/procedures, problem solving skills, and self-confidence. Correlation results indicated that institution factors such as practice placement positively influence nursing students' acquisition of clinical competences. This study therefore recommends the hospital to improve the experiential mentoring environment so that the students can be offered appropriate mentorship support while in the clinical placements for them to be able to apply knowledge learnt in class. A policy on the implementation of a formal structured mentorship program should be put in place at the nurse training institution and at the hospital so that there is a precedent standard that can be followed to enhance the acquisition of clinical competences. There should also be a mentoring action plan where students are intentionally matched to mentors depending on the placement to avoid overburdening one mentor with many students and so that they can receive appropriate mentorship support.
Assessment of Knowledge of Kenya’s Breast Milk Substitutes Act (2012) among Nurses in Mbagathi and Pumwani Hospital, Kenya
(Galore International Journal of Health Sciences and Research, 2021-04) Nyaboke Clement,; Gesimba, Beatrice; Juma, Rose
Breast Milk Substitutes Regulation and Control Act, 2012 aimed to provide for appropriate marketing and distribution of breast milk substitutes, safe and adequate nutrition for infants, through the promotion of breast-feeding and proper use of breast milk substitutes. Nurses are responsible for providing information about benefits of breastfeeding to help the new mother to make a fully informed decision about infant nutrition. The aim of this study was to determine nurses' knowledge on the recommendations of the BMS Act in Mbagathi and Pumwani Hospitals, Nairobi County. This study used a cross-sectional descriptive research/study design. The target population were nurses who all work in maternity wards because of their responsibility for counseling mothers on infant nutrition. The study used a sample of 200 nurses. Questionnaires were use to collect data. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and chi-square Analysis with the help of SPSS. Majority (68%) of the respondents had high knowledge. There was a significant relationship (p=0.014) between the level of education and nurses knowledge on BMS. Nurse’s knowledge on the recommendations of the BMS Act was generally high. Nurses with bachelors and postgraduate degree were more likely to have high knowledge than those with certificates and diplomas in nursing. Diploma curriculum therefore needs to be bolstered to include current recommendations of breastfeeding in line with the BMS Act
Assessment of Satisfaction with Online Learning Environment Among Nursing Students in Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) Nairobi
(Innovative Journal of Social Sciences,, 2023-08) Chebii, Maryline; Mutinda, Agnes Kasusu; Njuguna, Susan
In recent years, there has been an increased use of eLearning in medical training colleges, driven by technological advancements, learners' desire for flexibility, and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is limited literature on nursing students' satisfaction with the eLearning environment at Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) in Nairobi. Therefore, this study aimed to assess nursing students' satisfaction with online learning at KMTC Nairobi, focusing on students and institutional-related factors. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, involving 259 nursing students who were selected proportionately from eligible classes. The findings revealed that a significant proportion of students faced challenges in accessing a computer 115(50.2%), reliable internet 151(65.1%), and a conducive study area 123(53.2%). Cross-tabulation analysis showed that various student factors, including navigating online platforms (p = 0.026), browsing the internet (p = 0.003), accessing and using a computer (p = 0.003), having reliable internet access (p = 0.01), and being in a conducive environment for online classes (p = 0.01), were significantly associated with high satisfaction with e-learning. Institutional support for e-learning was perceived as inadequate, significantly impacting satisfaction levels (p < 0.05), particularly in terms of technical support availability and access to e-learning platforms for all students. The study recommends actions to improve the online learning experience, including ensuring access to computers and reliable internet and addressing gaps in institutional support.
Association between Family History and Hypertension among the Patients in Nairobi:
(Stratford Peer Reviewed Journals & books, 2021-11) Oirere, Moseti; Nyavanga, Eunice; Gisemba, Beatrice
Hypertension is an important public health issue globally. With the global prevalence of hypertension being 40%, Africa ranks the highest with a prevalence of 46%. The high burden in developing countries is attributable to the high levels of risk factors. In Kenya, 20-30% of adults had hypertension in 2013. However, there is little information on the prevalence of hypertension and its association with family history as its risk factor among adult patients seeking medical care in Nairobi. The primary goal of this study was to determine the association between family history and hypertension among adult patients at Mbagathi Hospital. Fisher's formula was used to determine the sample size which was composed of 384 respondents while systematic random sampling was used to select the study participants. The study adopted a cross-sectional, descriptive study design. Data collection included the use of a questionnaire that included both open and closed-ended questions given to each participant with each being allowed to exercise informed consent before responding to questions. Descriptive statistics mainly means and percentages were used to analyze data. Inferences were made using the chi-square statistic. Statistical significance was set at P <05. Patients with hypertensive parents had a high prevalence of hypertension (42.2%). A significant connection between family history and hypertension (p=0.017) was discovered using a statistical chi-square test while 69.9% of the participants had a family member who had hypertension. Family history was an associated risk factor for hypertension; respondents who had a family member with hypertension and mostly those with a hypertensive mother were more likely to be hypertensive.
Attitudes of Primary Health Care (PHC) Gatekeepers Towards Patient Referral Policy, Machakos County, Kenya
(Science Journal of Public Health, 2016-06) Nshimirimana, Desire Aime; Mwaura-Tenambergen, Wanja; Kokonya, Donald; Adoyo, Maureen
Primary Health Care (PHC) serves as the foundation for building a working healthcare system that provide good health outcomes. The quality of PHC delivery and the decision to refer patients depends on some behavioural factors (knowledge, skills and behaviour) of primary care providers. The study was conducted at 100 PHC centres sampled using Taro Yamane formula, in Machakos County, Kenya, from March to May 2015. It involved 8 gender-based focus group discussions (FGDs) with patients and their caretakers. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from emancipated children and adults aged 15-65 years excluding the disabled due to data integrity issues. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20.0 and Atlas.ti 7 software were used for analysis. A questionnaire return rate of 83% was achieved of whom 84.3% were nurses (p<0.001) and 15.7% were diploma holders in clinical medicine (clinical officers). The health workers were young (P<0.001) and married (p<0.001). About 62% of the respondents reported to know about PHC gatekeeper system and 38% don’t know about PHC gatekeeper system. The gate keepers at a majority rate 86.7% reported to have participated in workshops of which at least 40.3% participated in at least one workshop per year, means that the majority of gatekeepers don’t fill the required continuing professional development (CPD) to renew their licenses. Bad behavior, poor communication, don’t care attitude, long waiting time and no courtesy were mentioned by patients by 60% of respondents as the main contributing factors to non-compliance of patients with the national patient referral policy. Attitudes (knowledge, skills and behaviour) are crucial in primary care gatekeeper policy implementation. It has been made clear that nurses acquire enough knowledge from college to take care of patients but still need more practical knowledge and experience to increase their performance. This study recommends an innovative plan using incentive driven model and performance rewards in the implementation process.
Awareness and Utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services among Adolescent Girls in Kajiado County, Kenya
(Global Journal of Health Sciences,, 2025-01) Aluda, Wilfrida Kadenyi; Mapesa, Job; Njoroge, Kezia
Purpose: Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health (ASRH) is a global concern, with over 1.2 billion adolescents at risk due to limited access to essential health services. In Kenya, high rates of unintended pregnancies and STIs among adolescents highlight the need for effective sexual health education. In Kajiado County, cultural barriers limit ASRH service access, leaving many girls unaware of available resources. Methodology: A mixed-method design examined the impact of referral systems on ASRH service utilization among adolescent girls in Kajiado County. Quantitative data were collected from 422 girls through structured questionnaires, while qualitative data came from FGDs, IDIs and KIIs. Quantitative analysis used SPSS version 26 and qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings: While 78% of participants showed general SRH awareness, only 45% were knowledgeable about contraception and 38% about STIs. Unintended pregnancies were common (65%), with just 30% aware of preventive options. Peer influence (60%) and schools (50%) were primary information sources; however, stigma (55%) and inadequate outreach (62%) were significant barriers to access. Statistical analysis confirmed these barriers were associated with lower SRH knowledge levels (Fisher's exact test: < 0.05). Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Despite increasing SRH awareness among adolescent girls in Kajiado County, significant knowledge gaps persist, particularly in contraceptive use and STI prevention. Recommendations include educational initiatives on SRH, greater parental involvement and enhanced outreach programs. Future research should explore community-based and digital strategies to improve SRH knowledge and service use among rural adolescents.
Barriers and Facilitators of Postnatal Care Utilization under the Linda Mama Program in Kajiado County, Kenya
(Journal of Medicine, Nursing and Public Health,, 2024-08) Nyaga, Daisy Catherine Wawira,; Mapesa, Job; Muchina, Emily
Purpose: To identify determinants and barriers to postnatal care utilization among mothers in Kajiado County, Kenya, within the framework of the Linda Mama program. Methodology: The study used a cross-sectional study and was conducted in Kajiado County. The study’s population was 137 mothers in Ongata Rongai, 87 mothers in Kitengela, 139 mothers in Kajiado & Loitoktok. Data was collected from the mothers through a structured questionnaire, which was interviewer-administered. The key informants' interviews also had a guide. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis were conducted. Tables, figures, and narratives were used to present the findings. Results: The majority of participants (77%) were aged 19-30 years, and 90% were married. The level of awareness of the free PNC services provided by the Linda Mama program was low, with only 4% of mothers being aware and a mere 1% utilizing these services. Employment status significantly influenced PNC utilization, with 67% of mothers being unemployed. Conclusions and Recommendations: The study identified critical barriers to PNC utilization, including low awareness, misconceptions about costs, financial constraints, and logistical challenges. Despite the availability of free maternal health services, misconceptions about costs and accessibility hinder effective utilization. The study recommends that enhancing awareness, recruiting additional Community Health Promoters (CHPs) for mobile PNC services, and encouraging the acquisition of necessary identification documents could improve PNC uptake. Improved community outreach and education about the NHIF Linda Mama program are essential to address these barriers.
BARRIERS TO IMPLEMENTATION OF NURSING PROCESS AMONG NURSES WORKING IN NAROK COUNTY REFERRAL HOSPITAL
(Journal of Health, Medicine and Nursing(JHMN), 2020) Saretin Anna, Lekenit; Mutinda, Agnes K.; Gatere, Ruth G.
Purpose of the study: This study therefore assessed barriers of nursing process implementation by Narok County Referral Hospital nurses. Methodology: A descriptive cross sectional study design was used to collect data from 102 randomly sampled nurses in NCRH. The study instruments used were self-administered questionnaires and key informant interview. SPSS version 20.0 was used to analyze quantitative data and sample characteristics were analyzed using mean and median. Themes were used to analyze qualitative data and narratively presented. Association between the study variables was calculated using chi square at 95% level of significance while statistical significance of results obtained was calculated using p values of 0.05. Data analysis was presented using tables and graphs. Approval was sought from relevant authorities. Results: The study results revealed that female participants were the majority at (70.6%). Most participants (71.6%) had attained diploma level of education and among them, 92.2% had received training in nursing process. Majority 95 (93.2%) were observed not to implement nursing process and of those who implemented, only 1 (1%) correctly outlined all the steps, a sign of poor nursing process implementation. NP implementation was of statistical significance with age of nurses as 18 out of 29 of younger nurses aged 21-30 years were found to actively practice it (p =0.001, work experience (p = 0.001), training (p > 0.05): institutional factors (p = 0.001). Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Nursing process mainstreaming interventions such as regular staff refresher courses and mentorship On NP in the hospitals, availability of relevant resources: human resource and supplies can highly mitigate these barriers.
Call Centre Influence on the Delivery of Mental Health Services Among Young People: A Case of One2one Call Centre in Nairobi County
(International Journal of Health Sciences, 2024) Kimathi, Mutwiri Robert; Kawila, Caroline; Olouch, Musa
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of call centers on the delivery of mental health services among young people in Nairobi County. Specifically, the study aimed to investigate the impact of crisis intervention, round-the-clock availability, resource sharing, and follow-ups on mental health service delivery. Methodology: The study employed a descriptive-cross-sectional research design to assess the impact of call centers on mental health service delivery. The target demographic consisted of healthcare providers affiliated with the one2one Call Centre in Nairobi County. A sample size of 112 respondents was selected using basic random selection methods. Data was collected through the distribution of questionnaires, and Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 25 was utilized for data analysis. Descriptive statistics such as mean, standard deviation, frequencies, and percentages were employed, along with correlation and regression analysis to evaluate the relationships between research variables. Findings: The study found that crisis intervention, round-the-clock availability, and resource sharing had a positive impact on the delivery of mental health services among young people in Nairobi County. Specifically, crisis intervention strategies were shown to significantly enhance the overall mental health support system, ensuring timely assistance for young individuals in need. Furthermore, maintaining round- the-clock availability allowed service providers to cater to the diverse needs and schedules of young people seeking assistance, thereby improving the overall delivery of mental health services across the county. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: This study makes several contributions to theory, practice, and policy in the field of mental health service delivery. Firstly, it adds to the body of literature on the effectiveness of call centers in enhancing accessibility and reachability of mental health services, particularly among young people. Secondly, the findings provide valuable insights for healthcare practitioners and policymakers on the importance of crisis intervention, round-the-clock availability, and resource sharing in improving mental health service delivery.
Capacity Building as a Predictor of Service Provision among Community Health Promoters in Nandi County, Kenya
(East African Journal of Health and Science,, 2025-09) Chebet, Risper; Vundi, Susan; Kimemia, Fredrick
Capacity building is increasingly recognised as a cornerstone for strengthening community health systems, particularly in underserved regions where Community Health Promoters (CHPs) play a vital role in bridging the gap between households and formal healthcare services. This study examined the role of capacity building in enhancing the effectiveness of CHPs’ service provision in Nandi County, Kenya. The research adopted a descriptive design and targeted 1,567 CHPs across six sub-counties, from which a stratified random sample of 306 was drawn. Data were collected using a structured fivepoint Likert scale questionnaire that was pretested in Uasin Gishu County to ensure reliability and validity. A total of 287 responses were obtained, yielding a 93.8 percent response rate. Descriptive statistics indicated that although many CHPs had received some form of training, gaps persisted in the consistency, adequacy, and relevance of these capacity-building initiatives, which in turn affected their ability to deliver services effectively. Inferential analysis using Pearson correlation showed that capacity building had a statistically significant positive relationship with service provision (r = 0.518, p < 0.01), while regression analysis confirmed that capacity building was the strongest predictor among all facilitators, explaining a substantial portion of the variance in CHP performance outcomes. CHPs who accessed regular training, mentorship, and learning resources demonstrated greater confidence, improved efficiency, and stronger engagement with their communities. The findings underscore that beyond financial incentives, supplies, and job security, sustained investment in capacity building remains the most critical enabler of community health service delivery. The study concludes that institutionalising structured and continuous professional development programs for CHPs is essential for equipping them with the skills to respond to evolving health challenges, foster innovation, and build trust between communities and health systems. Policymakers and stakeholders are therefore urged to prioritise capacity building as a strategic pathway toward achieving universal health coverage in Kenya and similar context