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Background: The use of immediate postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices during the postpartum period supports women's need for spacing births and prevents them from unplanned pregnancies. However, in developing countries, utilization of immediate postpartum contraceptives is low. This increases the risk of maternal morbidity, maternal mortality, preterm birth, child mortality, low birth weight, and small gestational age in subsequent pregnancy with interpregnancy interval. Objective: To assess immediate postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device utilization and the associated factors among women who gave birth in Hospitals in West Wolegga Zone in 2020. Methods and materials: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted in public hospitals in the West Wolegga Zone from 1 April 2020 to 30 April 2020 among 290 postpartum women. The sample size was proportionally allocated to six hospitals by considering their monthly delivery. Study subjects were taken by systematic sampling technique (Kth=N/n =1025/290=3.53), thus every 4th woman who gave birth in the hospital was recruited in each hospital until the total sample size for this study was obtained. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association of independent variables with immediate postpartum intrauterine device utilization. A significance level of 0.05 was used to assess the statistical significance of the study's associations. Results: In this study, the magnitude of the Immediate postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device utilization was 19.3%.factors like Early initiation of antenatal care [AOR=4.46 95% CI:1.84-10.78], Planning of future pregnancy [AOR=3.7(95% CI: 1.43-9.54)], Ever heard of the immediate postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device [AOR=2.67(95% CI: 1.08-6.58)] and Counseling about postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device [AOR=5.15(95% interval: 2.00-13.28] were associated with immediate postpartum intrauterine device utilizations. Conclusion: The use of immediate postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices is low compared to other studies conducted in Ethiopia. Age, early antenatal care initiation, pregnancy planning, hearing of the immediate postpartum intrauterine device immediately inserted after delivery, and counselling on the immediate postpartum intrauterine device were significantly associated with mothers' use of immediate postpartum intrauterine devices. Health Program directors should develop strategies to increase the use of immediate postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Contraceptive methods are techniques used to prevent pregnancy during sexual intercourse. The primary goal of contraception is to inhibit the fertilization of an egg by sperm or to prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus. Unwanted pregnancy is a major challenge for street beggar women. Due to limited use of modern contraception, unwanted pregnancy and STDs are key issues faced by this population. This study aims to assess modern contraceptive utilization and explore factors influencing contraceptive choices among street beggar women in the Sidama region, Ethiopia by using Bayesian logistic approaches. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted on reproductive-aged (15–49) street beggar women in the Sidama Region. Data was collected using a pre-tested, structured interview questionnaire in the local language from each town in the Sidama region. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data using STATA version 17. A Bayesian logistic approach, with Markov Chain Monte Carlo methods, was used to model the association between modern contraceptive utilization and independent variables, allowing for estimation of model parameters and credible intervals. Result: The study found that 38.9% of street women in the Sidama region used modern contraceptives, primarily implants and injections. Bayesian logistic regression identified key factors influencing contraceptive use including, women aged 25–34 (AOR: 2.69 (95% CI: 1.57, 4.26)), married women (AOR: 4.91 (95% CI: 2.67, 8.51)), Widowed women (AOR: 2.81 (95% CI: 1.49)) and educated women (AOR: 2.16 (95% CI: 1.48, 3.01)) were more likely to use contraceptives. In contrast, those living on the street (AOR: 0.12 (95% CI: 0.05, 0.27)), with no history of pregnancy (AOR: 0.07 (95% CI: 0.02, 0.16)), and no sexual activity in the last six months (AOR: 0.11 (95% CI: 0.01, 0.03)), had lower usage rates. Additionally, women whose only job was begging (AOR: 0.43 (95% CI: 0.13, 0.92)) and those lacking health advice (AOR: 0.25 (95% CI: 0.07, 0.59)) also showed reduced utilization. Lack of discussion about contraceptives with partners (AOR: 0.18 (95% CI: 0.08, 0.33)) and no women's approval (AOR: 0.18 (95% CI: 0.08, 0.33)) further contributed to lower usage. Conversely, good knowledge of modern contraceptives was positively associated with utilization (AOR: 2.33 (95% CI: 1.44, 3.64)). Conclusion: The findings of this study identified several factors significantly associated with modern contraceptive use among street beggar women in the Sidama region, including age, marital status, Education level, disability, Job in addition to begging, Current living situation, history of sexual assault/rape, History of pregnancy after street life, discussion of modern contraception with a sexual partner, Advice from a health professional, Sexual activity in the last six months, time taken to arrive at a health facility on foot, approval of modern contraception, and knowledge. The main barriers reported were fear of side effects and lack of knowledge about contraceptive methods. The study suggests that concerned stakeholders should intervene to address these factors and improve modern contraceptive uptake in this vulnerable population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Although sexual and reproductive health for adolescents is a recognized fundamental human right and a critical component of health policy, it is poorly addressed and seldom researched in pastoral communities. The study aimed to determine the status of sexual and reproductive health knowledge, attitudes, and practice among pastoral school adolescents in Ethiopia. Study design: An Institution-based comparative study was conducted from Nov. 2020 to Jan. 2021. Methods: We conducted a comparative cross-sectional study at four randomly selected high schools. Seven hundred seventy-three adolescent students participated, with 384 from Gorodola and 389 from Wadara districts, Guji zone Ethiopia. The data was collected using 34 self-administered questions and analyzed using descriptive, t-test, and linear regression models. Results: The study found that only 44.2% of all the participants had good knowledge, 46.1% had good attitudes and 35.4% had good utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health Services. Respondents from Wadara High School had significantly higher mean knowledge scores (49.3% vs. 44.2%, p < 0.01) than those of Gorodola High School. There was no significant difference in mean utilization scores between case and compare (45.08% vs. 37%, p > 0.01). Adolescents who were not communicated on SRH matters, previously utilized FHS, and visited Friendly Health facilities were associated with poor utilization of sexual and reproductive health services. Conclusion and public health contributions: Wadera High School adolescents have better Sexual and reproductive health knowledge and utilization than Gorodola high schools. Community public health care providers in Wadara District explain the outcome through their contributions. Within the context of inherent disadvantage in the school environment setting, there is a need to improve sexual and reproductive health education with a greater emphasis on school girls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Several studies have been done on the utilization of sexual and reproductive health services by high school students in Ethiopia, but they have yielded inconsistent results. This study aimed to evaluate the extent to which high school students in Ethiopia are using sexual and reproductive health services by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Various electronic databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, AJOL, Google Scholar, and Grey Literature were used to search for relevant articles. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Guidelines were followed for this review and meta-analysis. Heterogeneity was assessed using I² and Cochrane Q statistical tests, and data analysis was done with STATA 17 software. Random effect meta-analyses were used to determine the overall utilization rate of sexual and reproductive health services. Result: This review included 20 studies with 12, 215 study participants. The pooled magnitude of sexual and reproductive health service utilization among high school students in Ethiopia was 29.79% (95% CI: 25.14, 34.43). Students with grades 11--12 (AOR = 2.33, 95% CI: 1.39, 3.90), aged between 20 and 24 years (AOR = 2.61; 95% CI: 1.79--3.81), having higher level of knowledge towards sexual and reproductive health issues (AOR = 3.10; 95% CI: 1.67--5.77), previous history of sexual intercourse (AOR = 4.18; 95% CI: 2.59--6.75), previous history of sexually transmitted infection (AOR = 3.74; 95% CI: 2.22--6.31), presence of a reproductive health service facility in the school (AOR = 2.55; 95% CI: 1.72--3.77), and ever-discussed reproductive health issues (AOR = 4.04; 95% CI: 1.62--10.03) were more likely to utilize sexual and reproductive health services. Conclusions: The overall utilization of sexual and reproductive services among high school students in Ethiopia was found to be low as compared to SDG 3.7. Older individuals with higher education levels and knowledge about sexual and reproductive health services, as well as those who have had previous sexual experiences or discussions about sexual health, are more likely to utilize reproductive health services. To increase utilization, the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education should prioritize these factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer is a significant global health challenge, with the majority of cases and deaths occurring in low-resource regions like sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. Women living with HIV (WLHIV) in this area face a six-fold higher risk of cervical cancer compared to women living without HIV Both the availability of screening services and their utilization remain low, particularly among WLHIV, hindering efforts to reduce the cervical cancer burden in this vulnerable population. Objective: This study aimed to synthesize the current research on the prevalence of cervical cancer screening utilization and the associated factors among women living with HIV in Ethiopia. Method: We conducted a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis, searching databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library for relevant studies published from 2015 up to 2023 and the search period for these relevant articles was from April 1 up to April 30, 2024. Data from included studies was extracted, organized in Excel, and then analyzed using STATA 17. The overall effect across all studies was calculated using a random-effect model. Potential publication bias and heterogeneity in the results between studies were assessed using Egger's test, forest plot, and I² statistic, respectively. Result: According to the systematic review and meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of cervical cancer screening utilization among women living with HIV in Ethiopia was 24% (17 − 32%). Several factors were independently associated with cervical cancer screening utilization, including age (40–49) years (OR = 3.95, 95% CI: 3.307–4.595), age (18–29) years (OR = 5.021, 95% CI: 1.563–9.479), education level greater than college (OR = 3.293, 95% CI: 1.835–4.751), having good knowledge (OR = 3.421, 95% CI: 2.928–3.915), early initiation of sexual intercourse (OR = 3.421, 95% CI: 2.928–3.915), awareness of cervical cancer (OR = 3.551, 95% CI: 2.945–4.157), having information about cancer (OR = 3.671, 95% CI: 2.606–4.736), CD4 count less than 500 cell/mm3 (OR = 4.001, 95% CI: 1.463–6.539), government employee (OR = 5.921, 95% CI: 1.767–10.076), and perceived susceptibility (OR = 2.950, 95% CI: 2.405–3.496). Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis show that the pooled prevalence of cervical cancer screening rates among Women living with HIV in Ethiopia is notably low, at only 24%. Factors influencing service utilization include age, education level, knowledge about cervical cancer, early sexual initiation, awareness of the disease itself, and HIV-related conditions. To enhance screening rates, interventions must target these factors and address systemic healthcare deficiencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Globally, the HIV pandemic makes preconception care even more crucial due to the additional risks for sexual and vertical transmission of HIV. However, there is limited evidence on the utilization of preconception care among high-risk women in Ethiopia. The purpose of this research is to assess preconception care utilization and associated factors among HIV-positive women of reproductive age who attend ART clinics in public hospitals in the Hadiya zone of Southern Ethiopia in 2023. Methods: A cross-sectional study design employing a mixed methods approach was used among 297 study participants from July 1-Semptember 1, 2022. Data were collected by pretested structured questionnaires. The data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software version 25. Logistic regression, Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval was computed, and variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Qualitative data were analyzed using open code version 4.03. Results: This study revealed that 19.9% (95%Cl: 15.4, 24.2) of study participants use preconception care. Women's autonomy (AOR = 3.65; 95% CI: 1.14, 11.68;P = 0.03), knowledge of PCC (AOR = 3.05; 95% CI: 1.13, 8.22; P = 0.001), getting family/husband support (AOR = 4.06; 95% CI: 1.56, 10.53;P = 0.022), discussions with healthcare providers (AOR = 5.60; 95% CI: 2.26, 13.90;P = 0.002), availability of room for PCC (AOR = 3.77; 95% CI: 1.38, 10.31;P = 0.009), getting all laboratory services (AOR = 4.19; 95% CI: 1.61, 10.94; P = 0.002), and history of medical problems (AOR = 2.94; 95% CI: 11.01, 8.62;P = 0.036) were significantly associated with PCC use. Conclusion: The level of PCC use in the current study area is low. Women's autonomy, knowledge of PCC, obtaining support from family or husband, engaging in discussions with healthcare providers, having access to a PCC room, access to all laboratory services, and having a history of medical problems are significantly associated with PCC use. Our findings suggest integrating PCC into routine HIV care, boosting women's autonomy, and integrating family support with healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite significant progress being made in reducing under-five mortality, three-fourths of under-five deaths are still caused by preventable conditions such as pneumonia, diarrhea, malaria, and newborn issues. Integrated community case management of childhood illnesses (ICCM) could serve as a means to reduce preventable child mortality in Low- and Middle-Income countries. Our aim was to assess the overall level of ICCM utilization and its associated factors in Ethiopia. Methods: Candidate studies for inclusion in this review were identified through searches across various databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and university repositories online databases, spanning from February 1, 2024, to March 18, 2024. The quality assessment of the studies included in this systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale (NOS). Data extraction and analysis were carried out using Microsoft Excel and Stata 17 software, respectively. Heterogeneity among the studies was assessed using Cochran's Q test and I2 statistics, while the presence of publication bias was evaluated through funnel plots and Egger's regression asymmetry test. Subgroup analysis was performed based on sample size and study site. Results: In this study, the pooled level of ICCM utilization was found to be 42.73 (95%, CI 27.65%, 57.80%) based on the evidence obtained from ten primary studies. In this review, parents' awareness about illness (OR = 2.77, 95%, CI 2.06, 3.74), awareness about ICCM service (OR = 3.64, 95%, CI 2.16, 6.14), perceived severity of the disease (OR = 3.14, 95%, CI 2.33, 4.23), secondary/above level of education (OR = 2.57, 95%, CI 1.39, 4.77), and live within 30 min distance to the health post (OR = 3.93, 95%, CI 2.30, 6.74) were variables significantly associated with utilization of ICCM in Ethiopia. Conclusion: The utilization of ICCM was found to be low in Ethiopia. Factors such as parents' awareness about the illness, knowledge of ICCM services, perceived severity of the disease, attending a secondary or more level of education, and living within 30 min distance to the health post were significantly associated with the utilization of ICCM. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on creating awareness and improving access to high-quality ICCM services to reduce child morbidity and mortality from preventable causes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Delays in surgery start times can lead to poor patient outcomes and considerable increases in healthcare expenditures. This is especially true in developing countries that often face systemic inefficiencies, such as a shortage of operating rooms and trained surgical personnel. With substantial effects on patient outcomes, healthcare efficiency, and resource allocation, identifying delays in first-case elective surgery is a crucial area of research. Methods: A multicenter observational study was conducted at three comprehensive and specialized hospitals in the Amhara region of Ethiopia from May 1 to October 30, 2023. The primary aim of the study was to determine the occurrence of late first-case start times, defined as a patient being in the operating room at or after the hospital's incision time of 2:30 a.m. The secondary aim was to discover potential root causes of delayed first-case start times. All patients scheduled for elective surgery as the first case on the operating list throughout the study period were included in the study. Every emergency, day case, after-hours case, and canceled case was excluded. Results: A total of 530 surgical patients were included during the study window from May 1 to October 1, 2023. Of these, 41.5% were general surgeries, 20.4% were gynecology and obstetrics surgeries, and 13.2% were orthopedic surgery procedures. Before the procedure started, nine (1.7%) of the participants had prolonged discussion with a member of the surgical team. Patients who arrived in the operating room waiting area at or after 2:30 a.m. were 2.5 times more likely to experience a first-case start time delay than those who arrived before or at 2:00 a.m. (AOR = 2.50; 95% CI: 1.13–5.14). Furthermore, participants with abnormal investigation results were 2.4 times more likely to have a late first-case start time (AOR = 2.41; 95% CI: 1.06, 5.50). Moreover, the odds of a late first-case start time were increased by 10.53 times with the surgeon being in the operating room at or after 2:30 a.m. (AOR = 10.53; 95% CI: 5.51, 20.11). Conclusion: The research highlights a significant occurrence of delayed start times for the first elective surgical procedures. Therefore, directing attention to aspects such as ensuring patients and surgical teams arrive promptly (by or before 2:00 a.m.) and timely evaluation and communication of investigative findings before the scheduled surgery day could facilitate efforts to maximize operating room efficiency and enhance patient health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Adolescents face unique challenges related to their sexual and reproductive health (SRH), with access to timely services being critical for positive outcomes. However, SRH service utilization among adolescents remains low. This study aimed to identify factors influencing SRH service use among adolescents in Gamo Zone, Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study involved 1172 adolescents selected through stratified sampling. Structured face-to-face interviews were employed for data collection. Multilevel mixed logistic regression was fitted to identify factors and latent class analysis was conducted to understand population heterogeneity. Results: The findings of this study reveal that 198 (16.89%) adolescents (95% CI: 14.8%-19.2%) utilized SRH services within the past 12 months. Factors significantly associated with SRH service utilization included good knowledge about SRH rights (AOR = 4.65; 95% CI: 2.68, 8.07), belonging to one-parent families (AOR = 4.13; 95% CI: 2.39, 7.12), engaging in parental discussions regarding SRH issues (AOR = 3.17; 95% CI: 1.89, 5.29), high family support (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.09, 3.51), and enrolling in school (AOR = 0.19; 95% CI: 0.11, 0.33). Additionally, access to social media was associated with increased SRH service utilization among adolescents (AOR = 1.98; 95% CI: 1.25, 3.15). Latent class analysis identified four groups: rural school-enrolled adolescents living with parents, urban school-enrolled adolescents with both parents, urban disadvantaged female adolescents, and early adolescents with limited social media access. Conclusions: In conclusion, our study sheds light on the utilization of SRH services among adolescents, revealing that 16.89% of the participants accessed these services within the past year. Significant factors associated with SRH service utilization included good knowledge about SRH rights, belonging to one-parent families, engaging in parental discussions regarding SRH issues, high family support, and enrollment in school. Interestingly, access to social media was also linked to increased utilization of SRH services among adolescents. Furthermore, our latent class analysis identified four distinct classes of adolescents based on socio-demographic indicators, highlighting the heterogeneity within this population. These findings underscore the importance of tailored interventions and targeted approaches to address the diverse needs of adolescents in accessing and utilizing SRH services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Palliative care, which aims to alleviate physical and emotional distress from cancer, is underutilized in many African healthcare systems. Therefore, there is a lack of data on the need and utilization of palliative care services among women with breast cancer in Ethiopia. Objectives: The goal of this study was to identify the level of need and utilization of palliative care services and identify associated factors among women in an oncology department of Hawassa comprehensive and specialized hospitals. Design: Hospital-based cross-sectional study. Methods: A total of 121 women age ⩾18 years old with breast cancer participated from 1 August to 30 October 2021. A hospital-based consecutive sampling technique was used. Data regarding the need and utilization of palliative care services were collected via questionnaire and interview, entered using EpiData 4.6.0.6, and analyzed by SPSS version 25. Variables with p < 0.25 were considered for multivariate analysis, and those with p < 0.05 indicate an association with palliative care utilization. Result: Seventy-two (59.5%) had worse utilization of palliative care services, with higher odds in rural areas (adjusted odds ratio = 11.82). Conclusion: The study findings indicated that more than half of the study participants had worse utilization of palliative care services, with rural living being a contributing factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The number of globally food-insecure people is increasing since 2017. Sub-Saharan Africa has the highest proportion of severely food-insecure people in the world. Tigray region of Ethiopia is one of the food-insecure regions, which, over the past many decades has been affected by recurrent food insecurities. In the drought–prone rural areas of Tigray, many people are living under the condition of chronic hunger. Proper food security studies are vital for proper intervention mechanisms. Yet, previous food security studies have rarely addressed the four pillars of food security: availability, access, utilization, and stability. In this study, all components are duly considered to assess the food insecurity status in the drought–prone rural areas of Tigray, Ethiopia. Of the 34 rural districts in Tigray, 363 households from three drought–prone rural districts were studied. Results: Household Food Insecurity Access Scale and Food Insecurity Experience Scale were adapted to measure the food availability, access to food, and stability components of food security; and, Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS), Food Consumption Score (FCS), mid-upper arm circumference, and Bitot's spot were used to analyze the food utilization aspect. Findings show that 68% of the studied community frequently ate less food than they felt they needed and 82.1% of the households have experienced hunger because of lack of food. The study rural districts were unconnected to road networks; hence, 87.9% of the elderly and 20.4% of the women and girls had no access to food markets. Regarding the food utilization, 81.5% of the studied households had poor FCS; and the average HDDS and FCS for the study areas were 2.47 and 18.9, respectively. The prevalence of Global acute malnutrition, severe acute malnutrition (SAM), and moderate acute malnutrition (MAM) for 6–59 months of age children in the study areas were 50.3, 4.2, and 46.1%, respectively. More notably, the prevalence of SAM for children from the food-insecure households was 21.2%. The prevalence of MAM for pregnant and lactating women (PLW) in the study areas was 59.5. Further, the prevalence of Bitot's spot among 6–59 months of age children was 1.9%. On the other hand, all the rural households had anxiety about their future food demands. Conclusion: The rural households living in the studied areas were critically food-insecure. All the measurements implied that the food insecurity situation in the study areas was unacceptably worrisome and life-threatening. This calls for an instant action to avert the occurrence of famine and starvation in the drought–prone rural areas of Tigray region. Thus, interventions should primarily target the vulnerable rural people and need to be planned based on attaining food availability first rather than concurrently addressing all components of food security. Further, due emphasis should be given to diversifying livelihood strategies of the vulnerable villagers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Globally, 11 million children have died before reaching their fifth birthday. The introduction of the Integrated Management of Newborn and Childhood Illness (IMNCI) protocol reduces the morbidity and mortality rates among children under the age of 5. However, the share of neonatal mortality is increasing. As a result, the United Nations has established sustainable development goals to reduce national neonatal death rates through the utilization of the Integrated Management of Newborn and Childhood Illness protocol as the main tool for 12 per 1,000 live births by 2030. However, the death rate from preventable causes has increased owing to the low utilization of the protocol. Objective: The objective of this research is to assess the utilization of the IMNCI protocol and associated factors among healthcare workers (HCW) in health centers at the South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia, in 2022. Methods: The institution-based mixed study design was conducted from November to December 2022 at the South Gondar Zone, Amhara. A total of 422 HCW were selected using a computer-generated random-number generator. Data were cleaned and entered into EpiData 3.1 software and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Binary logistic regression was used to identify candidates for multivariable logistic analysis with p-value < 0.2, and for multivariable analysis, p-value < 0.05, with a 95% confidence interval, was considered significant. Thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data. Results: In total, 417 respondents were included in the final analysis. The overall response rate was 98.8%, and the mean age was 30.01 years. The results showed that the proportion of IMNCI utilization was 63.1%. The odds of the utilization of IMNCI protocol among HCW who took training were 3.13 times higher than those among HCW who did not take training [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.13, 95% CI: 1.594, 6.147]. The lack of drugs reduces the utilization of the IMNCI protocol by 75.7% compared with the use of drugs (AOR = 0.243, CI: 95%:0.128, 0.464). HCW who always referred to the chart booklet during case management were 3.34 times more likely to utilize the IMNCI protocol (AOR = 3.34, 95% CI: 1.99, 5.60) compared with those who did not refer to the chart booklet. Conclusions and recommendations: The utilization of the IMNCI protocol was low. A shortage of medical consumables and equipment attitude and training were identified as factors that affected the utilization of the protocol. Therefore, the availability of necessary logistics and training for employees with regular supportive supervision and monitoring should be conducted with the integration of sectors at the district and zone levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite remarkable progress in malaria burden reduction, malaria continues to be a major public health problem globally. Ethiopia has been distributing long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) for free and nationwide distribution was completed in 2016. However, evidence suggests that the utilization of LLINs varies from setting to setting and from time to time due to different factors, and up-to-date evidence is required for LLIN related decision-making. Hence, this study was designed to assess LLIN utilization and its determinants in the Southern Nations, Nationalities, and People's Region (SNNPR) of Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Southern Ethiopia in 2019. Using multi-stage sampling, a total of 2466 households were included. The region was stratified based on the annual malaria index as high, moderate, low, and free strata. Cluster sampling was then applied to select households from high, moderate, and low strata. Data on LLIN ownership, utilization and different determinant factors were collected using household questionnaire. SurveyCTO was used to collect data and data was managed using Stata 15. Descriptive statistics and multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression were performed to identify the determinants of utilization of LLINs. Effect measures were reported using adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% CI. Results: From a total of 2466 households, 48.7% of households had at least one LLIN. LLIN adequacy based on family size was 23% while it was15.7% based on universal access and 29.2% based on sleeping space. From 1202 households that possessed LLIN(s), 66.0% of households reported that they slept under LLIN the night preceding the survey. However, when the total population in all surveyed households were considered, only 22.9% of household members slept under LLIN the night preceding the survey. Malaria endemicity, educational status, wealth status, and knowledge about malaria were associated with LLINs utilization. In addition, reasons for non-use included perceived absence of malaria, side effects of LLIN, conditions of LLINs, inconvenient space and low awareness. Conclusion: Low LLIN coverage and low utilization were noted. A low level of utilization was associated with malaria endemicity, wealth status and level of awareness. Distribution of LLIN and continuous follow-up with community awareness creation activities are vital to improve coverage and utilization of LLINs, and to ensure the country's malaria elimination goal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality in developing countries including Ethiopia. Mass distribution of insecticide-treated nets and indoor residual spray for high malaria risk groups are the major prevention measures in different countries. Achievement of the malaria elimination plan is highly determined by the level of effective utilization of intervention measures. However, there is scarce information showing the national level of insecticide-treated nets utilization. Objective: To estimate the pooled prevalence of insecticide-treated nets utilization in Ethiopia, 2023. Method: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis employed to assess the utilization of long-lasting insecticidal nets in Ethiopia. Published articles were searched from Google Scholar, PubMed, Web Sciences, CINAHIL, EMBASE, and Scopus. The collected articles were screened for data extraction and further analysis using preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) flow chart. The quality of each study was assessed using the Jonna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. The data were extracted using Microsoft Excel and exported to STATA version 17.0 for analysis. The overall pooled prevalence of long-lasting insecticidal nets utilization was determined using a random effects model. Result: Out of 1657 articles reviewed, only 21 of them were eligible for final analysis. All of the included studies were used to estimate the pooled prevalence of long-lasting insecticidal net utilization. The point prevalence of LLIN utilization ranged from 14.23 to 91.9%. The Meta-analysis estimated that the overall pooled prevalence of insecticidal nets utilization among all study participants in Ethiopia was 56.26% (95%CI: 44.04–68.48%). Subgroup analysis revealed that insecticidal nets utilization was relatively highest in the Amhara region [63.0, 95%CI (37.0–89.0%)] and during 2020–2023 [61, 95% CI (53.0–69.0%)]. Conclusion: Long-lasting insecticidal nets utilization in Ethiopia is lower than the national target plan. Hence, it needs extra follow-up and intervention to enhance its utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is limited information regarding the level of sexual and reproductive health service utilization among disabled students in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the magnitude of sexual and reproductive health services utilization and its associated factors among disabled students in selected Universities in Ethiopia. An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was conducted. A simple random sampling method was used to draw study participants. EpiData version 3.1 and SPSS version 25.0 were used for data entry and analysis respectively. Statistical significance was declared at a p-value of < 0.05. The overall utilization of sexual and reproductive health services was 36.22% among 557 disabled participants. Marital status (AOR = 5.50; 95% CI: 2.64, 11.46), discussing sexual and reproductive health issues (AOR = 3.84; 95% CI: 2.596, 5.689), knowledge about sexual and reproductive health (AOR = 2.23; 95% CI: 1.16, 4.28), and attitude towards sexual and reproductive health (AOR = 2.87; 95% CI: 1.94, 4.23) were statistically associated with utilization of sexual and reproductive health services. This study showed a low proportion of disabled students had utilized sexual and reproductive health services. The most utilized services were voluntary testing and counseling followed by family planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Healthcare workers must maintain their knowledge, attitude, and skills regarding the most recent technology and competencies to deliver quality health care. The Ministry of Health, Ethiopia developed guidelines and directives for the utilization of continuous professional development programs. However, there is limited evidence on utilization and barriers to utilization in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the utilization and barriers to the utilization of continuous professional development among health professionals working in health facilities in eastern Ethiopia. Methods: A health facility-based cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among 731 healthcare professionals from September 01, 2022, and October 30, 2022. A multistage sampling technique was utilized. A simple random sampling technique selected health facilities and study participants. A self-administered questionnaire developed from national continuous professional development guidelines was disseminated to healthcare professionals working in the selected forty health centers and four hospitals. STATA statistical package version 14 was used for data analysis. A descriptive summary was used to summarize the variables. A logistic regression model was used to assess the association between independent variables and the outcome variable. Adjusted odds ratios along with 95% CIs were estimated to assess the strength of the association, and a p-value < 0.05 was used to declare the level of statistical significance in the analysis. Results: Continuous professional development utilization was determined for 731 healthcare professionals, of whom 241 (32.97%) [(95% CI: (29.55, 36.38)] had utilized continuous professional development. Lack of continuous professional development knowledge AOR 0.23 [(95% CI: 0.14, 0.37)], being female AOR 0.58 [(95% CI: 0.39, 0.86)], lack of internet access AOR 0.62 [(95% CI: 0.43, 0.89)], greater than 20 km distance from main road AOR 0.58 [(95% CI: 0.37, 0.91)], not heard importance of continuous educational units AOR 0.45 [(95% CI: 0.31, 0.65)], and poor perceived need of continuous professional development AOR 0.61 [(95% CI: 0.38, 0.97)], had a negative statistically significant association with the utilization of continuous professional development. Conclusion: The utilization of continuous professional development in the study area was low. Health sectors and stakeholders working on continuous professional development programs are required to focus on developing strategies for knowledge creation, female health workers, and access to the internet, remote areas, information on the importance of continuous educational units, and the variety of needs of professionals for continuous professional development implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Growth Monitoring and Promotion (GMP) services is the preventive and promotive activity that uses growth monitoring, measuring, and interpreting growth, to facilitate communication and interaction with the caregiver to promote child growth. This study aimed to assess GMP service utilization and associated factor among children less than two years in Decha district, Southwest Ethiopia 2023. Methodology: We conducted Community-based crosssectional study design to assess GMP service utilization and associated factor among children less than two years in Decha district, Southwest Ethiopia. The multistage sampling technique was employed for the study. Multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to determine the presence of statistically significant association GMP service utilization and independent variable at p_value <0.5 and adjusted odd ratio (AOR) value with 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: This study revealed that 47% [95% CI, 42.74%, 51.26%] of the children utilized GMP services. Availability of growth monitoring service in the nearest health facility [AOR 5.829; 95% CI, 2.588-13.129], Mother or caregivers who visited antenatal care service [AOR 6.449; 95% CI, 2.078-20.019], mother or care givers who delivered in Health facility [AOR 3.417 95% CI; 1.162-10.053], favorable mother or caregivers attitude toward GMPservice [AOR 2.438 95% CI; 1.400-4.247] and mother or caregivers who have good knowledge toward GMP service [AOR 3.015; 95%CI, 1.729-5.259] were significantly associated with utilization of GMP services. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: We found that over all GMP services utilization was low in the study are a compared with NN target (80%). Utilization of GMP services was signicantly associated with availability of growth monitoring service, antenatal care service, place of delivery, Caregivers attitude and knowledge toward GMP service. designing intervention; Increasing caregivers knowledge and increasing antenatal care coverage and facility delivery and availing services routinely in all health facilities is needed to improve utilization of GMP service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maternal health service utilization decreases maternal morbidity and mortality. However, the existing evidence is inadequate to design effective intervention strategies in Ethiopia. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the utilization of maternal health service and identify its determinants among women of reproductive age in southern Ethiopia. Design: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from October 21 to November 11, 2022 on a sample of 1140 women selected randomly from the Northern Zone of the Sidama region. Methods: Data were collected using the Open Data Kit mobile application and exported to Stata version 15 for analysis. We used a multilevel mixed-effects modified Poisson regression with robust standard error to identify determinants of maternal health service utilization. Results: Utilization of antenatal care, health facility delivery, and postnatal care was 52.0% (95% confidence interval: 49.0%, 55.0%), 48.5% (95% confidence interval: 45.6%, 51.4%), and 26.0% (95% confidence interval: 23.0%, 29.0%), respectively. Antenatal care use was associated with receiving model family training (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.19; 95% confidence interval: 1.06, 1.35), knowledge of antenatal care (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.54; 95% confidence interval: 1.31, 1.81), perceived quality of antenatal care (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.02; 95% confidence interval: 1.01, 1.03), and having birth preparedness plan (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.13; 95% confidence interval: 1.02, 1.25). The identified determinants of health facility delivery use were middle wealth rank (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.35; 95% confidence interval: 1.03, 1.77), perceived quality of health facility delivery (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.02; 95% confidence interval: 1.01, 1.03), antenatal care (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.76; 95% confidence interval: 1.36, 2.26), and high community-level women literacy (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.55; 95% confidence interval: 1.10, 2.19). Postnatal care use was associated with facing health problems during postpartum period (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.79; 95% confidence interval: 1.18, 2.72), urban residence (adjusted prevalence ratio: 3.52; 95% confidence interval: 2.15, 5.78), knowledge of postnatal care (adjusted prevalence ratio: 1.11; 95% confidence interval: 1.04, 1.19), and low community-level poverty (adjusted prevalence ratio: 0.43; 95% confidence interval: 0.25, 0.73). Conclusion: Maternal health service use was low in the study area and was influenced by individual- and community-level determinants. Any intervention strategies must consider multi-sectorial collaboration to address determinants at different levels. The programs should focus on the provision of model family training, the needs of women who have a poor perception, and knowledge of maternal health service at the individual level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Organizations still struggle with the best mechanisms to implement research into practice, and guideline developers need to continue to strive toward collaboration and avoidance of duplication. Objective: To assess the utilization of evidence-based nursing practice and associated factors among nurses working in Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2022. Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 10 September 2022 to 25 November 2022. The total sample size was 418, and a simple random sampling technique was used to select nurses. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. Data were entered using EpiData version 4.6 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Multicollinearity was considered by using a variance inflation factor (VIF > 10). The goodness of fit test was done using the Hosmer–Lemeshow model. Binary logistic regression was done, and variables with a p -value of less than 0.25 in the bivariable analysis were taken into the multivariable analysis. Statistical significance was declared at a p -value of less than 0.05 with an adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval. Result: The utilization of evidence-based nursing practice was 58.1% [95% CI: 52.23–63.24]. Male sex [AOR 4.65, 95%CI: 2.51–8.63], work experience of >5 years [AOR 6.83, 95%CI: 2.27–20.58], head nurse role in the hospital [AOR 1.72, 95%CI: 1.02–3.18], master's degree educational status [AOR 2.78, 95%CI: 1.89–8.61], and availability of EBNP guideline in the ward [AOR 1.24, 95%CI: 1.04–5.32] were significantly associated. Conclusion: About six in 10 nurses utilize EBNP at Saint Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College. Sex, experience of >5 years, head nurse role in the hospital, master's degree educational status, and availability of EBNP guidelines in the ward were significantly associated with the utilization of EBNP. Therefore, recruiting experienced nurses, learning master's degrees, and availing the EBNP guidelines in the ward might increase the utilization of EBNP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite its benefit in promoting maternal health and the health of her developing fetus, little is known about preconception care practice and its associated factors in Ethiopia. Moreover, preconception care utilization in private hospitals is not known. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to determine the utilization of preconception health care services and its associated factors among pregnant women following antenatal care in the private Maternal and Child Health hospitals in Addis Ababa. Methods: A Hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 1 to April 30,2022 among 385 women attending ANC in private MCH hospitals. Bestegah and Hemen MCH hospitals were selected by convenience method. Data were collected by a pretested self-administered semi-structured questionnaire. To identify the factors associated with the utilization of preconception care, bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed. Adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were estimated to assess the strength of associations, and statistical significance was declared at a p-value < 0.05. Results: The utilization of preconception care among the pregnant mothers according to our study was 40%. Professional/technical/managerial occupation (AOR = 4.3, 95%CI = 1.13, 16.33, P < 0.032), having good knowledge on preconception care (AOR = 3.5, 95%CI = 1.92, 6.53, P < 0.000), having unintended pregnancy (AOR = 0.1, 95%CI = 0.03, 0.42, P < 0.001), history of family planning use before conception (AOR = 3.9, 95%CI = 1.20, 12.60, P < 0.023), having pre-existing medical disease(s) (AOR = 8.4, 95%CI = 2.83, 24.74, P < 0.002), and having adverse pregnancy outcome(s) in previous pregnancies (AOR = 3.2, 95%CI = 1.55, 6.50, P < 0.000) were significantly associated with preconception care utilization. Conclusions: This study found out that the utilization of preconception care in the private MCH hospitals is still low i.e., only 40%. Occupation, level of knowledge, having unintended pregnancy, history of family planning use before conception, having adverse pregnancy outcome(s) in previous pregnancy and having pre-existing medical disease(s) were independently associated with preconception care utilization. Lack of awareness about the availability of the services and having an unintended pregnancy were the main reasons for not utilizing preconception care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: pregnant women waiting areas are residential facilities where women who live remotely can wait before giving birth at a hospital or health center. About 80% of people in developing countries live in rural areas, where poor access to maternity services accounts for many maternal and perinatal deaths. Although, pregnant women waiting areas are recommended to reduce maternal and infant deaths data on the utilization of pregnant women waiting areas limited in Ethiopia and the study area. Thus, this study assessed the utilization of pregnant mothers waiting area and associated factors among pregnant mothers at Damboya district Kembata Tembaro Zone south, Ethiopia in 2020. Methods: community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from March 16 to April 15/ 2020 at Damboya district Kembata Tembaro Zone Southern Ethiopia. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Data were coded, edited, and cleaned then double entered into epi data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done. Finally, variables with p-value < 0.05 by multivariate logistic regression analysis were reported as independently associated factors for utilization status of pregnant mothers waiting area. Results: this study shows pregnant women waiting area utilization was 28.1% at 95%CI (24-32). A distance greater than 30 minutes [AOR: 2.29, 95%CI (1.38-3.62)], wealth fourth quintile [AOR: 3.66, 95%CI (1.73-7.73)], awareness for PWWAs [AOR: 2.30, 95%cCI (1.12,4.74)], Good attitude [AOR: 3.0, 95%CI (1.8-5.0)], Favorable subjective norm [AOR: 2.40, 95%CI (1.50-4.0)] and low perceived barrier [AOR: 2.10, 95%CI (1.30-3.3)] were factors associated with utilization of Pregnant women waiting areas. Conclusion: utilization of pregnant women waiting areas in the study area was low. A distance greater than 30 minutes, wealthy family, good awareness of pregnant women waiting areas, favorable subjective norm, good attitude, and low perceived barriers were predictors of utilization. To increase their utilization, we need to focus on; improving the economic status of mothers, awareness creation, and work on attitude, subjective norm, and the barriers to utilize pregnant women waiting areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria infection during pregnancy endangers the pregnant woman, fetus, and newborn child. Thus, the use of an insecticide-treated net (ITN) is one of the most frequently advised methods for preventing malaria during pregnancy. Contrary findings have been reported in various studies on ITN utilization among pregnant women in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study was aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of ITN utilization and its associated factors among pregnant women in Ethiopia. Methods: Published articles from PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, AJOL and Cochrane library were systematically searched. All cross-sectional studies on ITN utilization among pregnant women were included in this meta-analysis. To estimate the pooled prevalence and odds ratio, a random-effect model was used; and a subgroup analysis was performed to identify the possible source of heterogeneity. Begg's and Egger's tests were used to identify possible publication bias. Results: Ten cross-sectional studies with 7,161 participants were included. The pooled prevalence of ITN utilization among all pregnant women who had access to ITN in Ethiopia was 59.42% (95% CI 51.14, 67.69). Statistically significant heterogeneity was observed (I2 = 97.7%; p < 0.0001). Higher educational status (OR = 3.47, 95% CI 2.32, 5.2), pregnant women who had antenatal care visits (OR = 2.37, 95% CI 1.97, 2.65) and having good knowledge of malaria prevention practices (OR = 10.63, 95% CI 5.31, 21.29) were associated with ITN utilization among pregnant women. Conclusion: The utilization of ITNs among pregnant women was much lower than the national target. Higher education status, attending ANC and a good level of knowledge were found to be independent predictors of ITN utilization. Improving women's understanding of ITNs will enhance their use, and the government and health sectors should encourage pregnant mothers to enroll in antenatal care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many sub-Saharan African countries promote micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to play crucial roles in Africa's socio-economic development. However, evidence from previous research highlights that enterprises remain informal, small, and with low performance due to the formidable challenges. Previous efforts that attempt to understand what challenges/determines the enterprises' performance considerably focus on factors outside the MSMEs, with little attention to the enterprises' own market and customer-focused activities. The current study examines the effect of the enterprises' market-focused activities on their performance by conducting an empirical survey among 150 enterprises in Ethiopia. Apart from extending the conceptualization on the role of market-focused practices, the study suggests development workers complement their efforts by backing the enterprises' endeavours to entirely focus on customer-centric operations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to look into the availability and utilization of instructional technology in Ethiopian primary education, using some urban and regional schools as case representatives. 165 in-service teachers were recruited using available sampling method from Addis Ababa and Amhara regional state primary schools. A questionnaire and semi-structured interview items were created and administered to collect data. The study used a descriptive survey design with a mixed methods research approach. Major findings revealed that teachers in the case primary schools do not have accesses to properly utilize educational technologies in the teaching-learning processes. Multiple regression analysis results showed that there is no significant difference in the use of educational technology between regional and urban school teachers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Despite a crucial role played by obstetric care providers (OCPs) in providing pain relief methods during labour, the evidence suggests that there is a large number of women in Ethiopia who did not have access to pain relief methods. Moreover, to the best of the investigators' knowledge, evidence is scarce regarding the utilization of pharmacological labour pain management methods in the study area. Thus this study was carried out to determine the practice of pharmacological labour pain management methods among OCPs in Harari regional state health facilities in Ethiopia. Methods A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 20 May to 10 June 2021 in Harari regional state health facilities. All (n=464) OCPs in Harari regional state health facilities were included in the study. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from previous studies. The data were entered into Epi-data version 3.1 statistical software. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS for Windows version 22. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to determine the association between independent variables and the outcome variable. A p-value <0.05 was used to establish statistical significance. Results In this study, 464 OCPs participated. The overall utilization of pharmacological labour pain relief methods was 50.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] 45.8 to 55.8). The main barriers to labouring mothers receiving pain relief include high patient flow (54.4%), the limited number of staff (51.9%) and a lack of knowledge and skill (32.9%). Being female (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.07 [95% CI 1.31 to 3.26]), not having training (AOR 1.60 [95% CI 1.02 to 2.53]) and having an unfavourable attitude (AOR 9.1 [95% CI 5.34 to 15.35]) were the predictors of utilization of pharmacological labour pain management methods. Conclusions The study revealed that half of the OCPs utilized the pharmacological labour pain management method. In general, this study identified that variables like sex, training and the attitude of OCPs were factors associated with the utilization of pharmacological labour pain management methods. The health facilities should provide training to enhance the skill of OCPs and equip themselves with sufficient analgesic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Immediate postpartum intra-uterine contraceptive device (IPPIUCD) placement within 10 min after the expulsion of the placenta following vaginal delivery is a safe and effective method when provided after comprehensive counseling. Studies on its acceptance and utilization are scarce in the study area. This study aims to assess the acceptance and utilization of IPPIUCD. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1st up to February 31st, 2020, among 392 mothers who delivered at public health facilities in Hawassa city. EPI-Data version 7.2 was used for data entry and STATA 14 for analysis. Data were collected using an interviewer administered structured questionnaire. A binary logistic regression and a multivariable logistic regression model were used to assess association. Statistical significance was determined at a p-value of less than 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval. Results: Of the 392 mothers enrolled, 16.3% (95% CI: 12.7–20.0) of them accepted immediate post-partum IUCD. However, only 10% (95%CI: 7.0, 12.9) utilized immediate post-partum IUCD. Counseling about IPPIUCD, Attitude, plan to have another child, and birth intervals were associated with acceptance of immediate PPIUCD while husband support for family planning use, delivery time, and the number of children had a significant association with utilization of immediate PPIUCD. Conclusions: The study found a relatively low proportion of acceptors and utilizers of immediate post-partum IUCD in the study area. To improve the acceptance and utilization of immediate PPIUCD among mothers, all stakeholders concerned with family planning need to mitigate and promote the challenges and facilitating factors, respectively. Plain Language Summary: Immediate post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device (IPPIUCD) is a safe and effecti ve family planning method to prevent unintended pregnancy for a long time, by making the mother protected immediately after delivery before she leaves the postnatal room. Since it was a newly initiated program in Ethiopia, the proportion of mothers accepting and utilizing IPPIUCD and what factors should be the factors to acceptance and utilization were not well known. Previous studies were either from sole facility data or focused on postnatal family planning in general. This study was intended to assess acceptance, utilization, and related factors about IPPIUCD in 392 women delivered in five public health facilities. The facilities range from health centers to general and referral hospitals, providing immediate post-partum IUCD, free of charge without the need of returning for family planning methods. The proportion of women who accepted and utilized IPPIUCD was very low. Receiving information about IPPIUCD through counseling and a favorable attitude about IUCD resulted in better acceptance of PPICD than not being counseled and having an unfavorable attitude. Additionally, mothers with short birth intervals, due to fear of early pregnancy and wanting to limit pregnancy due to having a sufficient number of children were better acceptance than their counterparts. More utilization was observed among women who gave birth in the daytime, having satisfied the demand for childbirth and husband support for family planning use. To increase acceptance and utilization of IPPIUCD health professionals should provide counseling about IPPIUCD for all women, including their husbands. We have to consider family planning equally in daytime and nighttime services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Diarrhea morbidity and mortality remain child health and economic burdens in low resource settings. In Ethiopia, diarrheal disease treatment service utilization remains very low. However, evidence on the level of utilization of zinc bundled with ORS among under-five caregivers' was not addressed. Objective: The study aimed to identify predictors of under-five caregivers' utilization of co-packaged zinc and oral rehydration salts for childhood diarrhea in East Wollega Zone, Western Ethiopia, in 2022. Methods: The study design used was a community-based cross-sectional study that was conducted among 540 randomly selected participants from April 1 to 30, 2022. Data were collected using interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaires. It was entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 26. An adjusted odds ratio along with a 95% confidence level was estimated, and a P value < 0.05 was considered to declare the statistical significance in the multivariable analysis. Results: About 39.6% of under-five caregivers' had utilized co-packaged zinc and oral rehydration salts for their childhood diarrhea at least once in the last 12 months. Having family size less than 5 [AOR and 95% CI = 5.72 (2.93,11.15)]; heard about the co-pack [AOR and 95% CI = 9.52 (4.95,23.68)]; perceived health status for the recent episode as poor [AOR and 95% CI = 5.90 (2.58, 15.96)] and medium [AOR and 95% CI = 2.20 (1.02, 4.83)]; perceived severity for recent episodes [AOR and 95% CI = 4.48 (1.36, 14.76)] and being community-based health insurance non-member [AOR and 95% CI = 2.28 (1.34, 6.90)] were statistically associated with co-packaged zinc and ORS utilization. Conclusion: The study found that co-packaged zinc and oral rehydration salt utilization was low. Family size, heard about the co-pack, perceived health status, perceived severity, and CBHI membership were predictors of co-packaged utilization of zinc and ORS. Hence, concerned bodies in the health system should have devoted to maximize its uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medical equipment are vital items to deliver quality services in health facilities and the role of medical equipment is a well-founded reality. It is mainly used in many diverse settings in hospitals to diagnose, treat illnesses; support disabled and intervened acute and chronic cases. Effective maintenance and proper management are major utilization issues to provide quality services while saving scarce resources. However, managing medical equipment, especially, the utilization phase of medical equipment, was not well studied in this general hospital. Objective: This study aims to assess the utilization of medical devices in Tulu Bolo General Hospital. Methods: The study was conducted from December 25, 2021 to February 9, 2022. Data sources included health professionals and document archives in the hospital. Data collection method includes questionnaires and observations checklists. A census of 165 health workers was conducted, with a response rate 94.5%. Data was entered into epi-data; version 3.1, then analyzed by SPSS version 23 and presented using descriptive statistics. Results: Procurement, storage, and utilization were found to be 53.47%, 56.57%, and 45.88%, respectively. Only 114 (57.3%) of the 199 pieces of medical equipment discovered were functional. Pearson correlation indicated that procurement and utilization of medical equipment are related to a higher proportion of non-functional devices (P = 0.000, B1 = 1.47, OR = 4.349, and CI 95% = 2.047– 9.241) and nonfunctional medical equipment (B2 = 0.790, OR = 2.203, and CI 95% = 1.065– 4.556) for procurement and utilization, respectively. Conclusion: Procurement, storage, and utilization of available medical equipment in Tulu Bolo Hospital were low. While health sectors operating in a resource-limited were assumed to have a big shortage of medical technologies, procurement, storage, and utilization of the limited available medical equipment need the attention of health program managers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Youths are people aged between 15 and 24 years. Globally, there were 37.7 million people living with HIV/AIDS, and 90% occur among youths. Despite enormous efforts made in Ethiopia to improve the reproductive health of the youth the utilization is still low. There is no study conducted on YFRHS utilization and associated factors among youths in East Belesa. Therefore, this study is aimed to assess YFRHS utilization and its associated factors among secondary school youths in East Belesa district. Objective: To assess the prevalence of youth friendly reproductive health service utilization and associated factors among secondary school students in East Belesa district, Ethiopia, 2022. Method: Institution based cross-sectional study design was used with a total sample size of 347 youths in East Belesa schools from May 23 to June 12, 2022. Stratified simple random sampling was employed. Data were entered using EpiData and analyzed using Stata version 14. Descriptive statistics and Logistic regression were done to describe and identify factors associated with reproductive health services utilization. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered to declare a level of significance. Results: A total of 346 students participated in the study with a response rate of 99.8%.the magnitude of youth friendly reproductive health service utilization was 28.9% (24.3, 33.9). Being married (AOR = 0.27, 95%CI: 0.14, 0.52), mothers attended higher education (AOR = 1.40, 95%CI: 1.87, 4.95), availability (AOR = 2.58. 95%CI: 1.29, 5.16) and students who had never discussed about reproductive issues with their families (AOR = 0.18, 95%CI: 0.07, 0.49) were significantly associated with youth friendly service utilization. Therefore, behavior change communication interventions targeted at advancing mothers' knowledge, encouraging open discussion between parents and children, and enhancing the availability of youth friendly services are important to enhance youth friendly service utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cervical cancer is the second highest cause of cancer-related mortality in the world, and it is one of the top 20 causes of mortality in Ethiopia. Even though cervical cancer is more common among women living with HIV, the utilization of cervical cancer screening services remains low in Ethiopia. Objectives: This study aimed to assess cervical cancer screening service utilization and associated factors among women living with HIV receiving anti-retroviral therapy at Adama Hospital Medical College, Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among a sample of 304 women living with HIV from 1st–30th June 2022. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The data were entered into Epi info version 7 and exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Bi-variable logistic regression analysis was used to identify candidate variables at p <.25. Finally, multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the independent predictors of cervical cancer screening service utilization at p <.05 with 95% confidence intervals. Results: The magnitude of cervical cancer screening service utilization was 26.9% (95% CI: 22.0, 32.6). Being a government employee (AOR: 8.09, 95% CI: 1.5, 41.19), having a family history of cervical cancer (AOR: 3.4, 95% CI: 1.02, 11.9), being aware of cervical cancer screening (AOR: 3.75, 95% CI: 2.11, 14.7), having a history of sexually transmitted infection (AOR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.95, 10.2), and heard about cervical cancer (AOR: 2.6, 95% CI: 1.05, 6.41) were associated with cervical cancer screening service utilization. Conclusion: The magnitude of cervical cancer screening service utilization was low. It was associated with occupation status, family history of cervical cancer, awareness about cervical cancer screening, history of STI, and ever heard about cervical cancer. Thus, to maximize utilization, health education programs and other multidisciplinary strategies had to be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the significant benefit of postpartum modern contraceptives to avert the problems related to short interpregnancy intervals and unintended pregnancy, still the uptake remains low in Ethiopia. The aim of the study was to assess the magnitude of family planning use during the puerperium period and the factors associated with it in the Benchi Sheko zone of Southwest Ethiopia. From 10th March to 10th May/2021, 385 mothers were enrolled in a community-based cross-sectional study. Participants were nominated using simple random sampling. To collect the data, an interviewer-administered questionnaire was used. To identify the factors associated with the utilization of postpartum contraceptives, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used. The statistical significance level was determined at p -value <.05. The overall utilization of postpartum modern family planning utilization was 50.4% (95% CI: 45.3, 55.3). Maternal education (AOR = 2.26, 95% CI; 1.03–4.95), informed on family planning (AOR = 0.34, 95% CI; 0.13–0.91), counseled on contraceptives during Antenatal Care (ANC) (AOR = 1.82, 95% CI: 1.05–3.17), previous family planning utilization (AOR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.28–0.73), counseled on contraceptives at the time of PNC (AOR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.07–2.71), and resumption of sexual intercourse after delivery (AOR = 4.17, 95% CI: 1.57–11.08) were the major factors hindering the utilization of modern contraceptives. the overall magnitude of modern contraceptive utilization during the puerperium period was low. Having counseling, information, and previous experience in family planning, and time to sexual intercourse resumption were clinical predictors of family planning utilization. A concerted effort to incorporate contraceptive services into maternal, neonatal, and child health (MNCH) service units should strengthen much, and counseling gives due emphasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Herd immunity against measles is essential to interrupt measles transmission, and this can only be attained by reaching at least 95% coverage for each of the 2 doses of measles vaccine provided in infancy and early childhood age group. It is important to provide everyone with 2 doses of the measles vaccine in order to effectively safeguard the population. Despite this, little is known about the second dosage of the measles vaccine utilization status and the factors that affect it. Therefore, this study aimed to assess second dose of measles vaccination utilization and its associated factors among children aged 24–35 months in Jabitehnan district, 2020. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted at Jabitehnan District, Northwest Ethiopia, from September 1st, 2020 to October 1st, 2020. Systematic random sampling technique was used to select 845 mothers/caregivers who had children aged 24–35 months. Both bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression was fitted to identify the determinant factors of second dose measles vaccination utilization. Finally, the statistical significant variables were declared by using 95% CI and P value less than.05 in the multivariable logistic regression analysis. The Hosmer and Lemeshow test was used to check the model's fit to the data, and the variance inflation factor was used to assess multi-collinearity. Results: The overall second dose of measles vaccination utilization was 48.1%, (95% CI: 44.7-51.6). Mothers with primary school education (AOR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.15-3.17), information about MCV2 (AOR = 6.53, 95% CI: 4.22-10.08), distance from vaccination site (AOR = 3.56, 95% CI: 2.46-5.14), knowledge about immunization (AOR = 1.935, 95% CI: 1.29-2.90), and favorable attitude about immunization (AOR = 5.19, 95% CI: 3.25-8.29) were significantly associated factors with second dose of measles vaccination utilization. Conclusion: Second dose measles vaccination utilization in the district was lower than the national target. Maternal education, distances from vaccination site, information about MCV2, and knowledge about immunization were significantly associated variables with second dose measles vaccination utilization. Therefore, in order to increase the utilization of the second dose of the measles vaccine, improved health education and service expansion to difficult-to-reach areas are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormalities of labor are the major causes of maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. Proper partograph utilization is a key intervention to detect labor abnormalities and subsequent initiation of management. Although a great deals of studies were conducted about partograph utilization, they have failed to explore some critical factors which correlate with correct filling of partograph so far. To assess magnitude and factors associated with proper partograph recording among skilled delivery attendants in public health facilities of Hawassa city, Sidama Ethiopia, in 2021. An institution based cross-sectional study was conducted to assess proper partograph filling practice among skilled delivery providers of public health facilities of Hawassa city, Sidama region, Ethiopia from November to December 15, in 2021. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaire, and client chart review. Data were entered, cleaned, and analyzed using SPSS software. Binary and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to show association between outcome and explanatory variables. Multi-collinearity test was done using VIF. Adjusted Odds Ratio with 95% CI and p value less than 0.05 was taken as cuff of value for statistically significant value at final model. Out of 405 study participants, only 370 study subjects have provided full response for questions making a response rate of 91.4% in this study. The reason of non-responders was evaluated as not related with the issue of the outcome variable. The mean age of study subjects was 28 ± 3.9 years. Magnitude of proper partograph utilization was found to be58.4% (95% CI, 55.8–60.9%) among skilled delivery attendants in this study. Factors associated with partograph uptake were: On job training (AOR = 1.9, 95% CI: (1.1, 3.2), good knowledge (AOR = 3.1, 95% CI: (1.8, 5.3) and supportive supervision (AOR = 4.5, 95% CI, 2.5, 7.9), client took Uterotonics (AOR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.4, 3.9), and day time admission (AOR = 3.5, 95% CI, 1.9–6.4). These factors were associated positively with proper partograph utilization. In conclusion, magnitude of proper partograph utilization was found to be lower than magnitude of WHO threshold. Hence, on job training should be enhanced about proper partograph utilization. Furthermore, monitoring, supervision and strengthening the human resource of delivery process would be mandatory by managers of delivery units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The health insurance system has been proven to offer effective and efficient health care for the community, particularly community-based health insurance is expected to ensure health care access for people with low economic status and vulnerable groups. Despite the significance of evidence-based systems and implementation, there is a limited report about the magnitude of CBHI utilization. Therefore, this study was done to assess factors associated with community-based health insurance utilization in Basona Worena District, North Shewa Zone, Ethiopia.Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was employed. We have included 530 households from 6 randomly selected kebeles. The data was entered using Epi-Data V 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 20.0 for statistical analysis. Bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were computed to determine factors associated with community-based health insurance utilization.Result: The study finding shows that 58.6% of the respondents were members of community-based health insurance. Respondents who had primary and secondary education levels were 2 times more likely to be members than those who had no formal education. As compared to those who had awareness, respondents who had no awareness about CBHI were 0.27 times less likely to be insured. Respondents who did not experience illness were 0.27 times less likely to be members than respondents who experienced illness.Conclusion: Educational status, awareness about CBHI, perception of CBHI scheme and illness experience of family influence CBHI utilization. There is a need to strengthen awareness creation to improve the CBHI utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Postnatal care (PNC) is critical for both the mother and the infant to treat delivery complications and provide the mother with important information on caring for herself and her baby. However, only 17% of women and 13% of newborns in Ethiopia received a postnatal checkup within the first two days of birth. This figure is significantly lower than the least developed countries. This study aimed to assess the coverage and associated factors of PNC service utilization in South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia. Method: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2020 to May 2021. The data were gathered using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. A total of 434 women who gave birth within 2 years of the study were included in the analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with PNC service utilization. Result: The prevalence of women who used PNC services was 36.4%. The study showed that antenatal care visit, husbands who have a secondary education, women with a secondary education, daily laborer women, husbands working for the government or non-profit sector, delivered in a health institution, nearby hospitals, travel by car to the nearest health facility were positively associated with PNC utilization. While, not having a cell phone, rural women and not having road access to a health facility, have not been receiving counseling were negatively associated with PNC utilization. Conclusion: The coverage of PNC service utilization in the study area was extremely low. Therefore, government and health care departments should pay special attention to uneducated women, women in rural areas, and women who are unemployed, are not exposed to mass media, and do not have access to transportation to improve PNC service utilization. Furthermore, programs educating mothers on the benefits of antenatal checkups and safer places of childbirth should be considered to increase PNC service utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The world faces great difficulty in continuing to provide essential maternity health care after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic Many women have trouble accessing maternity healthcare due to fear of infection. A decline in the utilization of maternity health services is suggested to worsen adequate antenatal care service utilization. Thus, this study aimed to determine the pooled estimate of adequate antenatal care service utilization after the onset of COVID-19 in Ethiopia., Methods: The searching of articles was carried out on Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, CINHAL, Google Scholar, African journals online, and the institutional repository of Ethiopian universities. Using a Microsoft Excel standardized spreadsheet, the data were extracted. A random effect model was used to determine a pooled estimate of adequate antenatal care utilization. I 2 statistics were used to quantify the amount of heterogeneity. The evidence of publication bias was examined using Egger's regression test and a visual inspection of the funnel plot. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also carried out., Results: Finally, this systematic review and meta-analysis included 11 eligible articles. The overall pooled estimate of adequate antenatal care service utilization after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia was 46.28% (95% CI: 35.32%-57.26%). There is a substantial amount of heterogeneity between studies ( I 2 < 0.001). Pregnant women who visited antenatal care early were 10.9 times more likely to have adequate antenatal care utilization than those without early visits (AOR = 10.93, 95% CI: 7.2-14.66).p < 0.001). Pregnant women who visited antenatal care early were 10.9 times more likely to have adequate antenatal care utilization than those without early visits (AOR = 10.93, 95% CI: 7.2-14.66)., Conclusion: In this review, the percentage of women who utilized adequate antenatal care after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic in Ethiopia was less than half. Early antenatal care visit is an important factor to achieve adequate antenatal care service utilizations., Systematic Review Registration: : CRD42023495279., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Wondmeneh and Solomon Tadesse.)

Introduction: The building construction industry is well known for being one of the most dangerous industries worldwide. Statistics show it is one of the most dangerous occupations in the world. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of injury, personal protective equipment usage among building construction workers, and associated factors in Southeast Ethiopia., Methods: Institutional-based cross-sectional study was done among 406 selected construction workers in Southeast Ethiopia. Study participants were selected randomly. Data were collected by using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to summarize study variables. Binary logistic regression was utilized to investigate factors associated with injury among study participants. Accordingly, adjusted odds ratio along its 95% confidence interval were calculated and a p value of <0.05 was used to declare statistical significance. Generalized linear models were utilized to investigate factors associated with the use of personal protective equipment. Accordingly, an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was determined and a p value of <0.05 was used as a level to declare a significant statistical association., Result and Discussion: In this research 406 building construction workers were interviewed and 393 participants gave complete responses, yielding a 96.8% response rate. Of all participants included in this study, 27 (6.8%) drink alcohol and 26 (6.6%) chew khats. Uses of personal protective equipment among study participants was 133 (33.3%, with a 95% confidence interval of 28.3% to 37.7%). Of 393 participants in this study, 213 (54.2%) of them sustained at least one building work-related injury in the last year. The commonest type of injury that occurred among this population was abrasion 43.3% followed by muscular pain (13%). Not having orientation about personal protective equipment, without safety training, didn't use personal protective equipment, and rural residence were factors significantly associated with injury among building construction workers. Residence, age, monthly income, service year, orientation about personal protective equipment, safety training, and start using personal protective equipment immediately after the job offers were significantly associated with the uses of personal protective equipment by participants of this study. In general, this study has identified a relatively high prevalence of injury and low use of personal protective equipment in the study subjects and associated factors., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Aliyi, Hashim and Abdurebi.)

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Introduction: In Ethiopia, only one in ten reproductive-age women use long-acting reversible contraceptives. Evidence on the utilization of these methods and associated factors among sexually active reproductive-age women in the pastoral area of Northeast Ethiopia is limited. Thus, this study aimed to assess the utilization of long-acting reversible contraceptives and associated factors among sexually active reproductive-age women in the pastoral community of Northeast Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1 to 30 April 2021 among 572 reproductive-age women selected by a systematic random sampling method. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and entered into Epi-info version 7 and then finally exported to Stata version 16 for further analysis. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses were done to identify factors affecting the utilization of long-acting reversible contraceptives. Odds ratio with the corresponding 95% confidence interval were computed and the statistical significance of the explanatory variables was declared at p -value < 0.05. Results: Overall, the utilization of long-acting reversible contraceptives was (24.3%; 95% confidence interval = 20.9%–28.0%). It was also revealed that being Orthodox (adjusted odds ratio = 4.10; 95% confidence interval = 2.20–7.65) and Protestant (adjusted odds ratio = 7.86; 95% confidence interval = 1.26–18.97) religion followers, attending higher education (adjusted odds ratio = 3.31; 95% confidence interval = 1.37–7.98), and having a husband who attended higher education (adjusted odds ratio = 4.37; 95% confidence interval = 1.98–9.67) were associated with an increased odds of using long-acting reversible contraceptive methods. Besides, having a good (adjusted odds ratio = 6.69; 95% confidence interval = 2.64–16.95) and moderate (adjusted odds ratio = 3.03; 95% confidence interval = 1.06–8.56) knowledge, and positive attitude (adjusted odds ratio = 3.65; 95% confidence interval = 1.90–7.01) toward long-acting reversible contraceptives were also associated with the utilization of these methods. Conclusion: Less than one-fourth of sexually active reproductive-age women in the study area were using long-acting reversible contraceptives. Thus, improving women's and husbands' education and women's knowledge and attitude toward long-acting reversible contraceptives is important to scale up the uptake of these contraceptive methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Information, education, and communication (IEC) materials have paramount relevance in primary health care which mainly focused on disease prevention and control. They are a cost-effective approach for achieving better health outcomes in all clinical and public health interventions. This study aimed to explore enablers and barriers to utilize printed IEC materials among healthcare providers of North Shoa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia, 2020. Methods: A descriptive, qualitative study was conducted from December 1, 2020, to December 30, 2020, among health care providers. A judgmental sampling technique was used and 20 key informants were recruited considering their educational level, professional categories, working units, work experience, and types of health facilities. The data were collected by using a semi-structured interview guide. The transcribed data were uploaded into ATLAS. ti version 7.5.18 software. Then, the inductive process of thematic analysis was employed and the data were coded, categorized, and thematized. Direct quotations were presented with a thick description of the findings. Results: The findings of the study were discussed under four themes of enablers and four themes of barriers. The four themes of enablers were availability of printed IEC materials, distribution of printed IEC material, perceived usefulness of printed IEC materials, and support from the non-government organization. The four themes of barriers were printed IEC materials-related factors, patients related factors, health care provider's related factors, and government-related factors. Conclusion: In this study, we found that the utilization of IEC materials was influenced by a number of facilitators and barriers. Thus, all concerned bodies need to give due attention to IEC materials and work towards the improvement of the quality of IEC materials, provide training for health care providers, work to increase the availability of IEC materials, and distribute them to the health facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Postnatal care is a key strategy to reduce maternal mortality. An early postnatal visit is a critical time for the survival of mothers and newborns. Despite the benefits, most mothers do not receive postnatal care services. Thus, this study was aimed to assess early postnatal care utilization among rural women and identify its associated factors. METHODS: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Horo Guduru Wollega zone from May 10 to 27/2019. A total of 695 randomly selected women participated in the study. A simple random sampling method was employed using the women's registration logbook. Multivariate logistic regression was used to control for possible confounders. A significance level of less than 0.05 was used in the final model to judge statistical significance. RESULTS: The magnitude of early postnatal care utilization was 21.8%. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that decision-making power, awareness about postnatal care, knowing at least one danger sign, place of delivery (AOR = 8.01), and model household (AOR = 5.65) were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: This study showed that the utilization of early postnatal care among rural women was found to be low. Decision-making, awareness about the danger signs, place of delivery, and graduating as a model household were the factors associated with postnatal care. Therefore, recommended that health facilities should work on increasing community awareness about the danger signs that can occur after birth or during the postnatal period and increase institutional deliveries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We already know that incorporating information and Communication technology (ICT) into every aspect of human activity result in significant change and makes tasks easier to complete. It can help in areas of healthcare systems and medical education. Therefore, this study aimed to assess utilization ICT and its associated factors among Arba Minch University College Medicine and Health Science students. Methods: A cross sectional study design was conducted in June through August 2021 among under graduate students in college of medicine and health science at Arba Minch University, Ethiopia. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on the students' socio-demographic factors as well as the utilization ICT. The data entry form was prepared with Epi-data 3.1 versions software and STATA version 14 software was used to analyze the data. Results: A total of 355 participants enrolled in the study, with a response rate of 98.34%. The percentage of students who used ICT was 55.77% [95% CI, 0.50, 0.60]. Regarding of field of study, health informatics students (84%) used the most ICT, while midwifery students (52%) used the least. Urban resident [AOR = 1.85, 95% CI = 1.08, 3.16], ICT knowledge [AOR = 3.8, 95% CI = 2.25, 6.40], having formal training of ICT [AOR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.06,3.48], having IT in current course study [AOR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.23, 3.84], and had good IT skill [AOR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.34, 4.23] revealed a significant and positive correlation with the use of ICT. Conclusion: In the current study previous residence, ICT knowledge, having formal training, having IT in current courses, and IT skill were significantly associated with student ICT utilization. Therefore, the university should continue to invest in professional development in order to improve teaching and student performance, as well as provide the college with student-centered ICT computer labs to encourage students to use technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The goal of blood transfusion is to provide a safe, sufficient, and timely supply of blood components to the recipients by ensuring that donation is safe and no harm to the recipient. So the current study was aimed to assess blood transfusion utilization and its outcome in patients at Yekatit-12 Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May 01 to July 30, 2021, on 616 individuals who have requested blood transfusion at Yekatit-12 Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Information on blood and blood component utilization was collected by using a checklist. Finally, data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0, and those variables in which P-value is less than 0.05 were considered statistically clinically significant. Results: A total of 1540 cross-match units were requested for 616 (53.2% male) patients with a mean age of 43 years. Out of 1540 cross-matched blood units, 1498 units of blood were transfused for 615 individuals with a mean of 2.43 units. The most widely used blood component was whole blood 694 (46.3%) and 1252 (83.6%) of the blood unit were "RH" positive. From a total of 68 (11.1%) none improved reported cases, 48 (10.5%) were those transfused with whole blood transfusion. The proportion of improvement after transfusion according to the service ranged from 83.3.0% to 100% and no post-transfusion reactions were reported. A significant improvement was seen in the hematological profile (hemoglobin, red blood cells, hematocrit, platelets, and white blood cells) findings of the transfused individuals after blood unit transfusion (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The overall utilization rate and improvement status after transfusion were high even if the utilization rate has some limitations. The overall ratios of cross-match to transfusion ratio, transfusion probability, and transfusion index were 1.03, 99.8%, and 0.97, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increasing access to family planning helps to ensure the reproductive right, decrease unintended pregnancy, improve the health and nutritional status of children, reduction of maternal mortality, and enhance longer birth spacing. However, there is continually low utilization of long acting and permanent contraceptive methods among low and middle-income countries. This study aimed to assess the utilization of long acting and permanent contraceptive methods (LAPMs) and associated factors among women of reproductive age in the West Guji Zone, Ethiopia. Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 507 women of reproductive age in the West Guji Zone, Southwest Ethiopia from April 15 to May 15, 2018. Data were collected by a structured, pretested, and interview-based questionnaire with open ended and closed ended questionnaire, then entered, and analyzed by SPSS Version 20. Bivariable and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out. A 95% confidence interval (CI) AND P-value < 0.05 was considered to declare statistically significant variables. Result: The current utilization of LAPMs at West Guji zone among the reproductive-aged group was found to be 51.1%. More than the median of participants had negative altitude (72.4%) and poor knowledge (57%) towards the LAPMs. Educational status of women, the number of alive children, acceptance of utilization of LAPMs, how treated by other staff, and waiting time during service delivery are significant determinant factors of LAPMs. Conclusion: Overall, more than half of women had a negative attitude and poor knowledge of LAPMs. Educational status of women, the number of alive children, acceptance of utilization of LAPMs, how treated by other staff, and waiting time during service delivery were factors affecting utilization of LAPMs. Therefore, sustained, and appropriate information on LAPMs should be provided to raise knowledge and build the attitude of women and the community. Treating the clients with respect, reducing the waiting time, and collaborative work with health extension worker will enhance utilization of LAPMs. Plain language summary: Low utilization of LAPMs has been continually reported in low- and middle-income countries. Unintended pregnancy and unsafe abortion might be related with unmet need of contraceptive. This study aimed to assess level of utilization of LAPMs among reproductive aged women in West Guji Zone Ethiopia. The findings from this research will help different stake holder by providing the level of current utilization of LAPMs and help them on planning how to strength the utilization by refereeing the associated factors. 507 Respondents were selected systematically: of which 51.1% of them utilize one of LAPMs currently. In conclusion the utilization may be affected by educational status of women, number of alive children, acceptance LAPMs by women, how treated by other staff during service delivery, and waiting time to get the service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The operating room (OR) is one of the most expensive areas of a hospital, requiring large capital and recurring investments, and necessitating efficient throughput to reduce costs per patient encounter. On top of increasing costs, inefficient utilization of operating rooms results in prolonged waiting lists, high rate of cancellation, frustration of OR personnel as well as increased anxiety that negatively impacts the health of patients. This problem is magnified in developing countries, where there is a high unmet surgical need. However, no system currently exists to assess operating room utilization in Ethiopia. Methodology: A prospective study was conducted over a period of 3 months (May 1 to July 31, 2019) in a tertiary hospital. Surgical case start time, end time, room turnover time, cancellations and reason for cancellation were observed to evaluate the efficiency of eight operating rooms. Results: A total of 933 elective procedures were observed during the study period. Of these, 246 were cancelled, yielding a cancellation rate of 35.8%. The most common reasons for cancellation were related to lack of OR time and patient preparation (8.7% and 7.7% respectively). Shortage of facilities (instrument, blood, ICU bed) were causes of cancelation in 7.7%. Start time was delayed in 93.4% (mean 8:56 am ± 52 min) of cases. Last case completion time was early in 47.9% and delayed in 20.6% (mean 2:54 pm ± 156 min). Turnover time was prolonged in 34.5% (mean 25 min ± 49 min). Total operating room utilization ranged from 10.5% to 174%. Operating rooms were underutilized in 42.7% while overutilization was found in 14.6%. Conclusion: We found a high cancellation rate, most attributable to late start times leading to delays for the remainder of cases, and lack of preoperative patient preparation. In a setting with a high unmet burden of surgical disease, OR efficiency must be maximized with improved patient evaluation workflows, adequate OR staffing and commitment to punctual start times. We recommend future quality improvement projects focusing on these areas to increase OR efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maternity continuum of care is the continuity of maternal healthcare services that a woman uses, which includes antenatal care (ANC 4+), skilled birth attendant (SBA), and postnatal care (PNC) within 48 h of delivery. It is one of the essential strategies for reducing maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors affecting the initiation and continuation of maternal health service utilization among women who delivered in the past one year in Enemay district, East Gojjam zone, Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among six hundred twenty-one (621) women who gave birth in the last one year in Enemay district from February 25 to March 10, 2019. A simple random sampling technique was used to select the study participants. Data were collected by face-to-face interviewer-administered, pretested, and semi-structured questionnaire. Binary logistic regressions (bi-variable and multivariable) were fitted to identify statistically significant variables. Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Interval (CI) was used to declare statistically significant variables on the basis of p-value < 0.05 in the multivariable binary logistic regression. Results: In this study, around 61% of women had antenatal care follow-up. Out of those women having ante natal care follow-up, about 77.5% (95% CI 73, 81.7%) had continued to receiving skilled birth delivery service. Age (AOR = 1.7 95% CI: (1.0, 2.88)), marital status (AOR = 1.6, 95% CI: (1.01, 2.76)), women's educational status (AOR = 2.9, 95% CI: (1.30, 6.72)), autonomy for health care decision-making (AOR = 3.71, 95%CI: (2.36, 6.02)), exposure to media (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI: (1.78, 4.6)), wanted pregnancy (AOR = 3.6 95% CI: (2.2, 5.95)), and parity (AOR = 0.34, 95%CI: (0.16, 0.71)) were statistically significant variables associated with initiation of antenatal care, whereas educational status of women (AOR = 4.65, 95% CI: (1.37, 15.7)), autonomy for health care decision making (AOR = 2.62, 95% CI:(1.0, 6.82)), and had counseled during antenatal care (AOR = 2.88 95% CI: (1.21, 6.83)) were statistically significant variables associated with the continuation of maternal health care services. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that the initiation and continuity of maternal health care services are low in the study area. Age, marital status, residence, women's educational status, health care decision-making autonomy, exposure to media, wanted pregnancy, and parity were factors significantly affecting the initiation of antenatal care. Whereas, women's educational status, health care decision-making autonomy, and counseling during antenatal care were predictors influencing the continuation of maternal health care services (antenatal care to skilled birth delivery). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The intrauterine contraceptive device, a type of long-acting reversible contraception, is one of the most effective and safe contraceptive methods. In Ethiopia, intrauterine contraceptive device is little known and practised to delay pregnancy. Therefore, this study aimed to assess post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device utilisation and its associated factors among women in Ethiopia. Method: In the current meta-analysis, variables were searched from different electronic database systems, including PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, HINAR, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Grey literature. Data were extracted using a standardised data collection measurement tool. The data were also analysed by using STATA 16 statistical software. I2 tests assessed heterogeneity between the studies. A random-effect model was used to forecast the pooled utilisation of postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device. Results: Twelve full-article studies were included. The pooled prevalence of post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device among women in Ethiopia was 21.63%. Occupation (OR = 4.44, 95% CI, 2.24–8.81), educational level of college and above (OR = 5.93, 95% CI, 2.55–13.8), antenatal care (OR = 2.09, 95% CI, 1.4–3.12), age (OR = 4.8, 95% CI, 2.3–10.04), good knowledge (OR = 4.16, 95% CI, 1.65–10.49), counseling (OR = 3.05, 95%CI, 1.41–6.63), husband support (OR = 11.48, 95% CI, 6.05–21.79) and awareness about IUCD (OR = 3.86, 95% CI, 1.46–10.2) were positively associated with utilization of postpartum intrauterine contraception device. Conclusions: Utilisation of post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device was significantly low. Scaling up women's educational status and ANC use has paramount importance in increasing post-partum IUD use, which further improves maternal and child health in general. This finding may be useful in both reproductive health promotion at an individual level and policy-making regarding this issue. Plain language summary: Family planning (FP) is widely recognised as a life-saving and health-improving intervention for women and children. An IUCD is a small, "T-shaped" intrauterine contraceptive device inserted into a woman's uterus. It is also referred to as an IUD, a loop, or a coil. Post-partum IUCD is an intrauterine contraceptive device inserted during the post-partum period. Although several primary studies have been conducted in various regions of Ethiopia, there is no nationally representative evidence on the PPIUCD utilisation and the pooled effects of its determinants in Ethiopia. In this review, some of the factors associated with the post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device were pooled quantitatively, and some were not because of inconsistent classification (grouping) of the exposures concerning the outcome (post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device). This systematic review and meta-analysis used the following electronic database; PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, HINAR, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Grey literature to search the primary articles. A total of 12 primary studies assessing the utilisation of postpartum intrauterine contraceptive device (PPIUCD) were included based on study eligibility criteria. And also, in this study we found that the pooled prevalence of post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device among women in Ethiopia was 21.63%. Occupation, educational status, good knowledge, husband support, age, counselling, antenatal care follow-up, and awareness about IUCD were factors that affect the use of post-partum intrauterine contraceptive devices. This systematic review and meta-analysis report that utilisation of post-partum intrauterine contraceptive device was significantly low. Therefore, scaling up women's educational status, and ANC use has paramount importance in increasing post-partum IUD use, which further improves maternal and child health in general. Beside this health professional also should be give health education and promotion about the importance of PPIUCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ethiopian Federal Ministry of Health and partners have scaled up integrated community case management (iCCM) and community-based newborn care (CBNC), allowing health extension workers (HEWs) to manage the major causes of child and newborn death at the community level. However, low service uptake remains a key challenge. We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed and grey literature to assess barriers to the utilization of HEW services and to explore potential solutions. The review, which was conducted to inform the Optimizing the Health Extension Program project, which aimed to increase the utilization of iCCM and CBNC services, included 24 peer-reviewed articles and 18 grey literature documents. Demand-side barriers to utilization included lack of knowledge about the signs and symptoms of childhood illnesses and danger signs; low awareness of curative services offered by HEWs; preference for home-based care, traditional care, or religious intervention; distance, lack of transportation and cost of care seeking; the need to obtain husband's permission to seek care and opposition of traditional or religious leaders. Supply-side barriers included health post closures, drug stockouts, disrespectful care and limited skill and confidence of HEWs, particularly with regard to the management of newborn illnesses. Potential solutions included community education and demand generation activities, finding ways to facilitate and subsidize transportation to health facilities, engaging family members and traditional and religious leaders, ensuring consistent availability of services at health posts and strengthening supervision and supply chain management. Both demand generation and improvement of service delivery are necessary to achieve the expected impact of iCCM and CBNC. Key steps for improving utilization would be carrying out multifaceted demand generation activities, ensuring availability of HEWs in health posts and ensuring consistent supplies of essential commodities. The Women's Development Army has the potential to improving linkages between HEWs and communities, but this strategy needs to be strengthened to be effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Providing post-abortion care service is a widely accepted to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality by promoting, preventing and treating maternal and neonatal health, identifying the utilization and its factor of post abortion contraceptive is crucial. Therefore we tried to review post abortion contraceptive utilization and its factors in Ethiopia. Methods: A review was performed by using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). A systematic and a comprehensive literature searching mechanism were used without any restriction, through Google scholar, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Grey literature databases for reporting utilization of post abortion family planning. Pilo-tested were performed in random sample studies and a standardized data extraction form was used. All statistical analyses were done using STATA version 14 software for windows, and meta-analysis was used with a random-effects method. The results are presented using texts, tables and forest plots with measures of effect and 95% confidence interval. Results: Among 1221 records, 11 studies were taken in the meta-analysis with 4336 Participants that full fill the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of post abortion contraceptive in Ethiopia was 74.56% (95% CI (73.31%, 75.81%)). Married women (OR 2.01 (95% CI (1.52, 2.66), I2: 0.0%)), women who were counseled (OR 5.36 (95% CI (3.10, 9.29), I2: 79.5%)), women whose educational level tertiary and above (OR 2.28 (95% CI (1.66, 3.17), I2: 0.0%)), women who had ever used contraceptive (OR 3.76 (95% CI (2.19, 6.47), I2: 67.8%)) and those women's age 15–24 years old (OR 8.35 (95% CI (2.74, 14.74), I2: 87.4)) were statistically significant. Conclusion: According to World Health Organization (WHO) guideline, "after a miscarriage or induced abortion, the recommended minimum interval to next pregnancy is at least 6 months in order to reduce risks of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes".. According to this post abortion contraceptive utilization in Ethiopia is not optimal. Marital status, education, Counsel, previously exposed and age were significantly associated. Therefore, the Ministry of Health should work target fully to address those problems to maintain maternal and child health in Ethiopia. Plain language summary: Post abortion family planning utilization is a woman utilizes at least one of the modern contraceptive methods within 6 weeks of post abortion. Providing post-abortion care service is a widely accepted strategy to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality. Linkage between abortion care and family planning can help in preventing unwanted pregnancies and thus induced abortion may be prevented. Post abortion women are a clear need for family planning. Even if a woman wants to have a child immediately, WHO guidelines recommend; "after a miscarriage or induced abortion, the recommended minimum interval to next pregnancy is at least 6 months in order to reduce risks of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes".. Since the main strategy of providing post abortion family planning is for promoting, preventing and treating maternal and neonatal health, identifying the utilization and its factor of post abortion contraceptive is crucial. Therefore we tried to review post abortion contraceptive utilization and its factors in Ethiopia. We reviewed 1221 records and 11 studies were fulfill the inclusion criteria and taken in the meta-analysis with 4336 participants. The pooled prevalence of post abortion contraceptive in Ethiopia was 74.56% (95% CI (73.31%, 75.81%)). Marital status, education, Counsel, previously exposed and age were significantly associated factors. As per the finding investing on women education and counseling is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) is the largest source of HIV infection in children below the age of 15 years, and more than 90% of pediatric HIV are infected through mother to child transmission. Without treatment, one-half of those infected children will die before the age of 2 years. Despite this, there is limited evidence on PMTCT and its determinants. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the factors affecting the PMTCT service utilisation in Ethiopia.Methods: A two-stage stratified sampling technique was used to identify 4081 women from 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS). A multilevel mixed-effect binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the individual and community level factors associated with PMTCT services utilisation. In the final model, a p-value of < 0.05 and Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to declare statistically significant factors with the utilisation.Results: Overall, 21.9% (95% CI, 20.6-23.2) of the women were utilized PMTCT services. Educational status; primary (AOR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.27-2.13), secondary (AOR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.03-2.24) and higher school (AOR: 2.48, 95% CI: 1.45-4.22), poorer (AOR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.12-2.37), middle (AOR: 1.82, 95% CI: 1.10-3.02), richer (AOR: 2.44, 95% CI: 1.42-4.21) and richest (AOR: 4.45, 95% CI: 2.43-8.14) wealth status and orthodox religion follower (AOR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.22-2.16) were the individual level factors. Moreover, having basic (AOR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.34-2.06) and comprehensive (AOR: 1.73, 95% CI: 1.38-2.18) knowledge on HIV prevention methods, having knowledge on MTCT of HIV (AOR: 2.69, 95% CI: 2.16-3.36) were also factors at individual level. Whereas, rural residence (AOR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.32-0.85) was the community level factors that affects the utilization.Conclusions: Less than one-fourth of the mothers had utilised the PMTCT services in Ethiopia. To increase the utilisation of the services, the health care providers should give emphases on counselling, awareness creation, and strengthen the existing frontline integrated health care services in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]