ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus and Management Practices among Senior High School Teachers in Ghana

Background: Educating teachers on diabetes mellitus is crucial to facilitate the appropriate care of the child with diabetes mellitus. The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the knowledge deficits about diabetes among school teachers in Ghana (2) to determine the knowledge on diabetes management practices among Senior High School teachers. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was carried out among 215 senior high school teachers from the western and central regions of Ghana. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires during the period August,2015 to February,2016. Results: Majority of the teachers (97%) knew that diabetes is as a result of increased blood sugar levels. Majority (81.8%) of the teachers knew that DM can cause complications in other organs and only 20.0%,15.8%,7.5% and 21.3% perceived obesity, decreased physical activity, stress and consuming too much sugars and sweets respectively as risk factors of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Majority of the teachers reported television and radio as the main source of information for DM. Only 31% knew the treatment for low blood sugar is to drink some sugar containing drink or eat food, but majority (75%) also knew that exercise lowers blood sugar. The most important DM management practices reported by the teachers were to allow student to see the school nurse upon request; discussing with parent about student condition and school to provide diabetic training for teachers; student to have access to fluids and to have competency in using glucometer. DM management practices that were considered not important by the teachers were preventing diabetic student to take part in school excursions; preventing diabetic student from exercising at school; diabetic student to eat his or her meal anywhere in school; allowing student to perform self-injection of insulin; permission for student to check his/her blood sugar level in school and keeping sugar in class to treat low blood sugar. Conclusion: Our study results indicate that teachers have limited knowledge about diabetes management and practices and therefore there is the need of diabetes education training courses for school teachers to enable them to provide adequate care for children with diabetes.

Source: UCC
Knowledge of Formally and Informally Trained Dressmakers on the Application of Dart Principles in Garment Designing

This study assessed and compared formally and informally trained dressmakers with regard to their use of dart principles in pattern making and garment designing. The descriptive research design was used for the study with a sample size of 50 dressmakers selected from three districts in the central region of Ghana. The instruments used for data collection were a semi-structured interview guide and an observation check list. The data collected were analysed with the help of descriptive and inferential statistics using the Predictive Analytical Software for windows version 22. The results of the study revealed significant differences between formally and informally trained dressmakers with regard to the application of dart principles manipulation and contouring, but not added fullness. Generally, the formally trained dressmakers performed better than the informally trained ones with the application of the three dart principles assessed in this study. It was therefore recommended that the dressmakers and tailors association incorporate a little theory on the preliminary stages involved in garment designing such as dart use into the framework they use in training apprentices. This will enable apprentices who will establish their own apparel production industry in the future treat preliminary stages with much importance.

Source: UCC
Knowledge of Nutrition Facts on Food Labels and their Impact on Food Choices on Consumers In Koforidua, Ghana: A Case Study

The aim of this study was to investigate consumers’ knowledge of food labels and how this knowledge guides their decisions when making purchasing choices with regard to food. This was a descriptive research design study. The setting was the suburb of Koforidua Municipality in the Eastern region of Ghana. One hundred and forty-three customers were observed in store from four randomly sampled supermarkets. One hundred of these customers completed a self-administered questionnaire. Measurements included observation and a self-administered questionnaire that elicited information on label-reading habits, attitudes towards health awareness and the influence of food labels on food choices. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Sixty-five of the 100 consumers (54 females and 46 males) who consented to respond to the questionnaire looked at or read food labels before selecting a food to purchase. Seventy-five per cent reported reading the food labels prior to selecting food. This study found that nutrition knowledge had a low to average impact on consumers’ food choices. Half of the consumers who reported reading the food labels did not do so regularly. This could have implications on how often such information is used when purchasing food. Also, only 22% of the study respondents answered correctly when asked to explain “26% RDA (recommended dietary allowance) vitamin A per serving” on a food label, even though 45% of the respondents had a tertiary education. These findings indicate awareness and knowledge of food labelling which may not always adequately impact on food choices, even though study respondents indicated high awareness and low to average reading of labels prior to purchasing food.

Source: UCC
Knowledge of occupational health and safety, and working conditions of small-scale gold miners in tarkwa nsuaem municipality

The main purpose of the study was to assess the knowledge of occupational health and safety, and working conditions of small-scale gold miners in Tarkwa Nsuaem Municipality. A quantitative research approach was used on a survey of 265 small-scale gold miners across Tarkwa through the usage of proportionate random sampling technique. Interview schedule was used to gather the data which were analysed using descriptive analytical techniques such as frequencies and percentages as well as chi-square statistics. The outcome of the study showed that majority of the miners expressed knowledge of occupational health and safety, while participation in basic occupational health and safety training enabled the miners to know about the occupational health and safety policy at the mining workplace. In terms of working conditions, most of the miners worked for more than eight hours per day, but were not paid for working overtime, while they were exposed to dust, rock falls, and harmful chemicals. The study also found that knowledge of occupational health and safety policies at the workplace was associated with the wearing of protective hand gloves and overall/overcoat for the body as well as ear protector while working. It was concluded that knowledge of occupational health and safety is relevant for promoting healthy and safe small-scale gold mining work. The study recommended further education for the small-scale gold miners to deepen their knowledge of occupational health and safety for the reduction of the occurrence of occupational hazards, diseases and injuries.

Source: UCC
Knowledge of Registered Mental Health Nurses about the Role of Nutrition in the Management of Schizophrenia at Pantang Hospital in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Schizophrenia is an enduring mental condition that affects about 26 million people each year globally. The purpose of the study was to assess the knowledge of Registered Mental Nurses (RMNs) in Psychiatric Hospital, Pantang about the role of nutrition in the management of schizophrenia. Descriptive cross-sectional research design was used. Systematic sampling was used to select 170 RMNs for the study. A questionnaire was developed to collect data from the respondents. The processing of data was done with the use of the SPSS and all the research questions were analysed using descriptive statistics. The results from the study indicate that the RMNs showed an overall positive knowledge about the management methods of schizophrenia, but most did not know the recommended period to detect treatment resistance and when to stop PACT treatment. However, many did not accept that eating less nutritious food has a correlation with schizophrenia. Lastly, the study found that knowledge about the dietary composition of schizophrenic patients was also fair enough among the RMNs, aside from most of them not knowing much about gluten-containing food substances. The study recommended that mental health training institutions must emphasise on enough courses on nutrition to help increase the knowledge of future RMNs on the correlation between nutrition and schizophrenia.

Source: UCC
Knowledge on Classroom Behaviour Modification Techniques of Pre-Service Teachers of Colleges of Education in Ghana

Classroom discipline is one of the most thought-provoking issues in modern education.Studies has it that students’ classroom misconduct interferes with teaching and learning and is believed to be a precursor to later school dropout and similar negative social outcomes. This study aimed at investigating the knowledge of pre-service teachers of Colleges of Education in Ghana on the concept of behaviour modification techniques in the classroom. A cross-sectional survey design was used for the study. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were used to obtain a sample size of three hundred and sixty participants for the study. Data was collected using behaviour modification questionnaire developed by the researchers and analysed using SPSS data analysis software. The results show that most of the participants have insufficient knowledge on behaviour modification techniques for classroom management even though they exhibited strong knowledge on few of the items. At 5% level of significance, there was virtually no significant difference found to exist in pre-service teachers’ knowledge of behaviour modification practices in terms of gender.

Source: UCC
Knowledge Sharing Behaviour Among University Lecturers in a Higher Education Institution

The quantitative research examined the degree to which lecturers at University of Cape Coast share and use knowledge. This study used the descriptive cross- sectional survey and gathered data from 114 lecturers from the College of Education Studies UCC, through the census method. Data for the study was gathered through the use of a questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive (mean and standard deviation) and inferential (independent samples t-test and One-way ANOVA) statistics. The research found that lecturers had a considerable willingness to take part in knowledge sharing with their colleagues. Also, they were willing to receive and use shared knowledge. Additionally, the research revealed that knowledge sharing improved lecturers' efficacy of their academic and administration functions. In terms of demographic variables, it was found that there were no age and sex differences in lecturers’ willingness to share and utilise knowledge. However, significant differences existed in their willingness to share knowledge based on professional ranks. They were collaborating, so they were given a sustenance recommendation to encourage lecturers in sharing knowledge with their colleagues since knowledge sharing was found to be beneficial

Source: UCC
Knowledge Transfer Practices: A Means of Sustainable Career Development among Non-Academic Senior Members in Ghana

The goal of this article is to look into how knowledge transfer practices might help non-academic senior members in Ghana maintain their career progress. The research was founded on interpretive philosophical assumptions, and a multiple case study design was employed to gain a comprehensive understanding of knowledge transfer methods among nonacademic senior members of Ghanaian universities. Non-academic senior members of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and University of Cape Coast (UCC) and University of Ghana (UG) make up the study's population. The non-academic senior members of the study were chosen from fifteen (15) colleges within the institutions, and data was acquired through semi-structured interviews. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. The results show that face-to-face interaction, after-action reviews, discussion forums, documentation, workshops, brainstorming and seminars were the most common methods for knowledge transfer. Non-academic senior members benefit from this type of information transfer in their career paths and development. Institutions should build up a knowledge portal where personnel may readily access material from other units or sections within their context, according to the recommendations.

Source: UCC
Knowledge, attitude and acceptability of cesarean Section among pregnant women in the Cape Coast Metropolis

The study sought to assess the knowledge, attitude, and acceptability of cesarean section (CS) among pregnant women in the Cape Coast Metropolis (CCM). Descriptive cross sectional study design was employed in the study. The study population was pregnant women in the CCM. A sample size of 384 participants were involved in the study. The study was a facility-based study, and accidental sampling technique was used to sample respondents from the health facilities in the CCM. A researcher generated questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. Data was entered into SPSS version 21.0 and descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages, chi-square test and logistics regression were used to analyse data. Majority of the respondents had high knowledge (78%), and positive attitude (89%) towards CS. Acceptability of CS was low (34%) among respondents. High knowledge was associated with CS acceptability (χ2 = 6.88; p = 0.032), whiles attitude did not (χ2 = 0.07; p = 0.79). Religions acceptability of CS (OR = 2.91, 95% CI = [1.53-5.55], p =.00) was the only socio-cultural variable that influenced CS acceptability (OR = 2.91, 95% CI = [1.53-5.55], p =.00). Demographic variables such as ethnicity (OR = 3.27, 95% CI = [1.18-9.07], p = .02), income (OR = 2.23, 95% CI = [1.09-4.58], p = .03), and parity (OR = 39.5, 95% CI = [1.35-1156], p = .03) significantly influenced CS acceptability. It was concluded that if pregnant women have knowledge on CS, they will accept CS if indicated to reduce maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. It was therefore recommended that there should be ongoing education at the antenatal clinics on CS and vaginal delivery to update pregnant women’s knowledge and reduce misconceptions about CS as well as reduction in maternal mortality associated with delayed labour.

Source: UCC
Knowledge, attitude and adherence to biosafety practices among clinicians of tertiary hospitals in Ghana

Biosafety concept in laboratory practice is of utmost importance which demands much attention always because of the daily exposure of clinical laboratory staffs to toxic hazards. Thus, there must be a continuous and cooperative effort on the part of laboratories and other departments of the health facilities to ensure that their testing procedures are safe. This study aims to assess the knowledge of clinical staffs in the four major teaching hospitals in Ghana. Methodology: The aim of the study was achieved by using a self-administered questionnaire. Results: A total of 105 participants were involved in the study (69 were males, 36 were females). About 86.7% of the participants had a bachelor’s degree, 70% have had a biosafety training, Majority of the laboratory staffs agreed that following the biosafety guidelines was for their safety; 93.3% agreed that infectious materials should be decontaminated before disposed into containers, 83.3 agreed that needles should be recapped before disposing into containers. Regarding leadership qualities; 84.8% always reported accidents near miss in the laboratory, a little above half (58.1%) ensured others follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), 55.2% of participants always reported new medical conditions. Concerning the safety of the facility, most of the laboratories complied with standard safety measures. However, some of the clinicians practice practiced bad laboratory behavior such as eating in the lab and mouth pippeting which can be attributed to inadequate experience. Conclusion: The majority of sample showed good laboratory practices, nevertheless, some showed bad behaviors that are not accepted and need intervention

Source: UCC
Knowledge, attitude and health beliefs of cervical cancer among women in Ajumako, Eyan, Essiam district in the central region of Ghana

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer prevalence among women worldwide with half a million cases each year. Cervical cancer incidence rate in Ghana is among the highest in the world.Low knowledge level, poor attitude and health beliefs are known to account for thelow level of cervical cancer screening in the Ghana.The study set out to explore the knowledge, attitude and health beliefs of cervical cancer and its screening among women in Ajumako-Enyan-Essiam district. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 240 women aged 18 to 60 from eight selected towns in the district. The study found a significant association between women’s level of knowledge on cervical cancer and practice of cervical cancer screening. There was also a significant association between women’s knowledge, health beliefs (34.2%) and practice of cervical cancer screening. In terms of attitude, the study found the respondents have positive attitude(44.3%) towards cervical cancer screening. Most of the respondents were of the view that they will be satisfied after having a pap smear. Majority (88.8%) of the respondents reported that regular Pap smear gave them a sense of control. Most respondents (79.6%) believed that cervical cancer test should be done on regularly basis. It is recommended that women should be educated on cervical cancer and screening because the formal education of women influence screening uptake.

Source: UCC
Knowledge, Attitude and Perceptions of Pregnant Women towards Caesarean Section among Antenatal Clinic Attendants in Cape Coast, Ghana

Over the years, caesarean section has become increasingly safe and remains one of the most commonly performed surgeries in obstetric practice worldwide. Even though there is an increased rate of Caesarean section in both developed and developing countries, some studies have suggested that African women have an aversion for it. We therefore set out to assess the knowledge, attitude and perceptions of Ghanaian women towards caesarean section. A descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in the University of Cape Coast Hospital. A structured questionnaire was used to assess the knowledge, attitude and perception of 412 pregnant women towards caesarean section. Total knowledge was categorized as inadequate (<50%) and adequate (≥50%). All the 412 respondents were aware of caesarean section. There was, however, a low level of adequate knowledge (39.6%) among the respondents. Majority of the women (94%) preferred vaginal delivery to caesarean section as their primary mode of delivery. Although 40% perceived that most women undergoing CS may die, 95.7% were willing to undergo the operation when indicated. However, 4.3% of the pregnant women would refuse the surgery even if indicated. Formal education (p=0.018), parity (p=0.035) and a previous experience of caesarean section (p<0.0001) were significantly associated with adequacy of knowledge on caesarean section. Even though there was a high awareness among the pregnant women, there was a low level of knowledge on caesarean section in our setting. Educational messages on caesarean section should be prepared to address especially issues on safety of the procedure and how post-operative pain is managed. Doctors should actively get involved in the education on caesarean section at the antenatal clinics, probably this will increase the knowledge of antenatal clinic attendants on CS.

Source: UCC
Knowledge, attitude and practice of cold chain management among health practioners in the Sekyere central district

Cold chain management is the process of storing vaccines in a potent state from the manufacturer to the recipient. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude and practice of cold chain management among health practitioners in the Sekyere Central District of Ghana. The study used a mixed method approach. Eighty- six participants responded to a questionnaire. Twelve cold chain sites were observed and a key informant interview was conducted with 11 health practitioners to explore the challenges on cold chain management. The major findings from the study indicated that (68.6%) of the participants level of knowledge was good and (67.4%) of them had good attitude towards cold chain management. With respect to cold chain management practices, (66.7%) also observed that the district was involved in incorrect cold chain practices such as storage of non-vaccines in vaccine refrigerators, inadequate monitoring of vaccine temperature (50%), inadequate temperature range for vaccine storage (41.7%), few facilities arranging vaccines correctly (16.7%), inadequate emergency power supply (8.3%) and non-availability of contingency plan (100%).The major challenges identified were poor cold chain infrastructure such as state of constant pressure and stress, electricity or power failure, delays in reaching the underserved communities. It is therefore recommended that the Regional Health Directorate should supply the district with cold chain equipment and logistics, especially the remote and underserved areas of the district, and sensitize the staff to refrain from incorrect cold chain practices

Source: UCC
Knowledge, attitude and practice of voluntary counselling and testing by HIV and AIDS counsellors

The purpose of the study was to find out whether or not HIV and AIDS counsellors in Kumasi Metropolis in Ashanti Region are: aware of national HIV and AIDS policy and policy guidelines, have requisite minimum training in HIV and AIDS counselling and care, have the necessary human resources for VCT, and have the minimum level of conceptual knowledge about VCT. It was meant to ascertain whether VCT as practiced, conforms with the minimum guidelines set by the UNAIDS as well as finding out if VCT is widely available in all the selected hospitals for the study in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ashanti Region of Ghana. The study involved 25 HIV and AIDS counsellors and 36 clients from three Kumasi Metropolis hospitals in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Data were collected using questionnaire consisting of 60 items, some of which consisted of statements to which the respondents were to respond to. The results of the study indicated that, there were national policy and some guidelines on VCT. Greater majority (78%) of the respondents did understand what the concept VCT entails. Lack of trained (volunteer) and designated staff to oversee the successful implementation of VCT and inadequate human resource base were some of the impediments identified. The general practice of VCT in Kumasi Metropolis hospitals to a large extent conforms with UNAIDS standards. It was recommended that the National Aids Commission (NAC) make available adequate number of trained voluntary and designated staffs to oversee the successful implementation of VCT in the Kumasi Metropolis.

Source: UCC