Search

Migration to South Africa is motivated by the pursuit of employment, safety, and improved living conditions. However, immigrants encounter significant challenges, such as restricted access to essential services, which were exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Malawian immigrants in South Africa, addressing the lack of attention given to this immigrant population by highlighting their vulnerabilities. Using a qualitative exploratory and descriptive approach, in-depth interviews were conducted with 24 Malawi immigrants who were over 18 years old and had established residency in South Africa before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Five key stakeholders were also interviewed for additional perspectives and to ensure triangulation and improve data reliability. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis strategies and coding with Nvivo12 software. The study highlighted the exacerbated struggles of Malawian immigrants in South Africa amid the COVID-19 pandemic, uncovering systemic discrimination in healthcare, marked by longer wait times and reluctance from health workers to treat undocumented immigrants. The study also revealed a dire security situation, with immigrants living in high-crime areas and feeling particularly targeted due to their foreign status, a situation worsened by the pandemic's economic effects. Additionally, the economic downturn induced by COVID-19 significantly impacted employment opportunities, with many immigrants facing prolonged unemployment and job losses, especially in sectors where they traditionally found work. The detailed accounts of participants highlight not only the multifaceted challenges imposed by the pandemic but also the critical need for inclusive policies and support systems that ensure healthcare access, safety, and economic resilience for immigrants, particularly during global health emergencies. Future research should focus on effective interventions for socioeconomic integration and well-being, particularly for immigrants from other African countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reflecting global trends, migrant farm workers in South Africa experience challenges in accessing healthcare. On the commercial farms in Musina, a sub‐district bordering Zimbabwe, Medécins sans Frontières and the International Organization for Migration both implemented migration‐aware community‐based programmes that included the training of community‐based healthcare workers, to address these challenges. Using qualitative data, this paper explores the experiences that migrant farm workers, specifically those involved in the programmes, had of these interventions. A total of 79 semi‐structured interviews were completed with migrant farm workers, farm managers, NGO employees and civil servants between January 2017 and July 2018. These data were supplemented by a review of grey and published literature, as well as observation and field notes. Findings indicate that participants were primarily positive about the interventions. However, since the departure of both Medécins sans Frontières and the International Organization for Migration, community members have struggled to sustain the projects and the structural differences between the two programmes have created tensions. This paper highlights the ways in which local interventions that mobilise community members can improve the access that rural, migrant farming communities have to healthcare. However, it simultaneously points to the ways in which these interventions are unsustainable given the realities of non‐state interventions and the fragmented state approach to community‐based healthcare workers. The findings presented in this paper support global calls for the inclusion of migration and health in government policy making at all levels. However, findings also capture the limitations of community‐based interventions that do not recognise community‐based healthcare workers as social actors and fail to take into account their motivations, desires and need for continued supervision. As such, ensuring that the ways in which migration and health are included in policy making are sustainable emerges as a necessary element to be included in global calls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child protection social workers (CPSWs) do critical work protecting vulnerable children. Given the demanding nature of this work, CPSWs are reportedly at great risk for negative outcomes, such as burnout and depression. Another outcome is often unsatisfactory service delivery by CPSWs, leaving vulnerable children exposed to continued maltreatment. Understanding how some CPSWs do well, despite the demanding nature of their work, is important to inform future interventions that could potentially promote CPSW resilience and improve CPSW service delivery. While some research on the resilience of CPSWs exists, very little is known about resilience in South African CPSWs. The aim of this qualitative study was to contribute to the ongoing conversation of CPSW resilience, by exploring resilience among CPSWs in Gauteng, South Africa. Participants shared their lived experiences of workplace adversity and resilience. In this paper, we report only on the findings related to their resilience, which was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings reveal that participants' resilience was informed by a safe and appealing space away from work; drawing strength from religion; relaxation and self‐care as healing modalities; a passion for CPSW; the positive influence of personal background; supportive care systems; self‐efficacy and personal agency; and a positive outlook. The resilience of these CPSWs, although dependent on supportive and responsive ecologies, was mostly self‐directed since they appeared fundamentally accountable to procure support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper focuses on the role of 'social support' in the experience of fibromyalgia (a musculoskeletal pain disorder) in South Africa. In-depth semi-structured interviews were used to collect narratives from 15 participants. Sources of social support constitute important mechanisms for coping with the illness experience of fibromyalgia. In providing a space for consultation and validation of the diagnosis of fibromyalgia, and the person living with the condition, people giving support fulfil a critical role in shaping the experience. The findings show how support from family, partners, and peers plays an integral role in the process of accepting fibromyalgia diagnosis, adapting to the demands of the condition, and seeking help from healthcare providers. The findings also show the ways in which people with fibromyalgia provide support for others with the condition, and the importance of this peer network in shaping the paths and outcomes of this illness experience. The findings of this study corroborate existing evidence that show fibromyalgia to be a complex condition to manage, due to the multiplicity, uncertainty and contestation that feature in the experience of the illness. Additionally, this study presents the challenges related to the limitations of access to healthcare in the South African context, and the utility of narrative approaches in garnering insight into the ways in which social support is harnessed in this environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of perinatal common mental disorders in South Africa is high, yet little is known about mental health service use among pregnant and postnatal women. This paper reports on pregnant women's patterns of use of a counselling service at a primary level obstetric facility in Cape Town, South Africa, between January 2010 and December 2011. It investigates whether these are associated with demographics, severity and risk of depressive symptoms. Participants ( N = 3311) were screened for psychological distress using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale ( EPDS) at their first antenatal visit. Risk factors for antenatal depression were assessed using a 11-item checklist. Questionnaires were self-administered, but some participants required assistance. Participants scoring positive (≥13) on the EPDS were offered referral to on-site, individual counselling, and assigned to one of three groups according to their service use: declined referral; accepted referral and attended counselling sessions; and accepted referral but defaulted all appointments. Consent to participate was received by 3437 (96.4%) participants who were offered screening, of which 627 (18.9%) screened positive on the EPDS. Of these, 363 (57.9%) attended counselling. Both bivariate analyses and regression analyses revealed that age and risk factor assessment score were associated with screening positive on the EPDS. Odds ratios ( OR) for accepting counselling were OR = 0.94 (95% CI = 0.92-0.97) for gestation, OR = 1.27 (95% CI = 1.15-1.39) for EPDS score and OR = 0.48 (95% CI = 0.23-0.99) for reporting three or more risk factors. OR for attending counselling were, for age: OR = 1.06 (95% CI = 1.00-1.12) and for reporting three or more risk factors: OR = 0.60 (95% CI = 0.37-0.97). While the majority of women with psychological distress accessed the counselling service provided, strategies to increase service use of younger pregnant women specifically are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Klebsiella pneumoniae remains a global health threat due to its alarming rates of becoming resistant to antibiotics. Therefore, identifying plant-based treatment options to target this pathogen's virulence factors is a priority. This study examined the antivirulence activities of twelve plant extracts obtained from three South African medicinal plants (Lippia javanica, Carpobrotus dimidiatus, and Helichrysum populifolium) against carbapenem-resistant (CBR) and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) positive K. pneumoniae strains. The plant extracts (ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, methanol, and water) were validated for their inhibitory activities against bacterial growth and virulence factors such as biofilm formation, exopolysaccharide (EPS) production, curli expression, and hypermucoviscosity. The potent extract on K. pneumoniae biofilm was observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), while exopolysaccharide topography and surface parameters were observed using atomic force microscopy (AFM). Chemical profiling of the potent extract in vitro was analysed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Results revealed a noteworthy minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) value for the C. dimidiatus dichloromethane extract at 0.78 mg/mL on CBR- K. pneumoniae. L. javanica (ethyl acetate) showed the highest cell attachment inhibition (67.25%) for CBR- K. pneumoniae. SEM correlated the in-vitro findings, evidenced by a significant alteration of the biofilm architecture. The highest EPS reduction of 34.18% was also noted for L. javanica (ethyl acetate) and correlated by noticeable changes observed using AFM. L. javanica (ethyl acetate) further reduced hypermucoviscosity to the least length mucoid string (1 mm-2 mm) at 1.00 mg/mL on both strains. C. dimidiatus (aqueous) showed biofilm inhibition of 45.91% for the ESBL-positive K. pneumoniae and inhibited curli expression at 0.50 mg/mL in both K. pneumoniae strains as observed for H. populifolium (aqueous) extract. Chemical profiling of L. javanica (ethyl acetate), C. dimidiatus (aqueous), and H. populifolium (aqueous) identified diterpene (10.29%), hydroxy-dimethoxyflavone (10.24%), and 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid (13.41%), respectively, as dominant compounds. Overall, the ethyl acetate extract of L. javanica revealed potent antivirulence properties against the studied MDR K. pneumoniae strains. Hence, it is a promising medicinal plant that can be investigated further to develop alternative therapy for managing K. pneumoniae-associated infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Community engagement is crucial for effective and sustainable sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHRs) promotion. Community engagement in community-based health promotion initiatives is contextual and influenced by individual, community, and societal factors. In South Africa, community engagement in SRHR promotion is challenging due to numerous historical and contemporary factors including the socionormative community context and socionormative perceptions regarding SRHR matters. There is little empirical literature to guide community-based practitioners working in health promotion in understanding the contextual influences on community engagement with SRHR promotion generally or in South Africa specifically. Objective. This research aimed to explore the influences on community engagement in community-based SRHR promotion initiatives in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Methods. An ethnographic and multiqualitative study was conducted in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, involving 78 purposively and conveniently sampled participants. Findings. Three superordinate themes influence community engagement with SRHR promotion in South Africa (i) representations of the issues; (ii) perceived relevance of SRHR issues and SRHR promotion; and (iii) the relational environment, often operating in interactive ways. The themes are presented in a conceptual framework. Conclusions. Influences on community engagement in SRHR promotion in the Eastern Cape of South Africa are highly contextual. The conceptual framework arising from the study's findings could be used in community-based health promotion and primary health care in other settings to develop the understanding of factors influencing community engagement in SRHR or other sensitive or emerging health issues, and inform relevant and appropriate design and implementation of community-based initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the sustainable employability of emergency nurses is important, given the precarious environment in which they work. This study used a cross-sectional survey of 204 emergency nursing professionals to investigate their sustainable employability in a South African context from the perspectives of precarious work, mental toughness, capabilities, and mental health. The Precarity Position Profile, Mental Toughness Questionnaire-Short Form, Capability Set for Work Questionnaire, and Flourishing-at-Work Scale-Short Form were administered. Three precarious work dimensions negatively predicted emergency nurses' capabilities. Significantly, precarious work conditions and professional development were associated with most work capabilities. Emergency nurses' capability set positively affected their mental health, with mental toughness moderating the effect of poor salary (a component of precarious work) on capabilities. Precariousness regarding salary, work conditions, and professional development affected emergency nurses' mental health indirectly and negatively through a poor capability set, while mental toughness indirectly and positively affected their mental health through a strong capability set. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore and describe the psychosocial support for frontline nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic in the Tshwane district, Gauteng Province, South Africa. Background: The COVID‐19 pandemic has brought a lot of psychosocial distress for frontline nurses taking care of COVID‐19 patients. The frontline nurses were scared of being infected with COVID‐19, or exposing their families and loved ones to the risk of infection. A high number of nurses were infected with COVID‐19, and some died due to the virus. Evaluation: This study followed a qualitative, explorative, and descriptive research design. Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews and individual interviews were conducted. Seventeen participants, who consisted of all categories of nurses taking care of COVID‐19 patients, were interviewed until data saturation was reached. Non‐probability sampling method was used as a technique to select the participants. Data were analysed using Tesch's method of open coding. Key issues: The following five themes are identified: (1) acknowledgement, appreciation, and recognition of frontline nurses, (2) conducive managerial practices, (3) debriefing and training of frontline nurses, (4) human resources support, and (5) psychological and social support for frontline nurses and their families. Conclusion: The implementation of the psychosocial support for frontline nurses taking care of COVID‐19 patients is critical in improving patient care. Implications for nursing management: The findings of this study should alert nurse managers to plan the best way to support frontline nurses caring for COVID‐19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of resistance of microorganisms to conventional antibiotics is a major global health concern; hence, there is an increasing interest in medicinal plants as a therapeutic option. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, anti-biofilm, and anti-quorum activities of crude extracts prepared using various solvents of nine indigenous South African plants used locally for the treatment of diarrhoea. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using the broth microdilution method and the crystal violet assay was used to test the anti-biofilm activity of the extracts against a panel of bacteria. Anti-quorum sensing activity of the extracts was assessed via inhibition of violacein production in Chromobacterium violaceum ATCC 12472. Preliminary screening of extracts against E. coli ATCC 25922 revealed that the acetone extracts had significant activity, with MIC values ranging from 0.04 to 0.63 mg/mL. Further screening against a panel of bacterial pathogens showed that the acetone extract of Bauhinia bowkeri was the most active with MIC of 0.01 mg/mL against Salmonella enteritidis, followed by Searsia lancea with MIC of 0.03 mg/mL against Bacillus cereus. All the plant extracts prevented the attachment of biofilms by more than 50% against at least one of the tested bacteria. However, only the mature biofilm of B. cereus was susceptible to the extracts, with 98.22% eradication by Searsia pendulina extract. The minimum quorum sensing inhibitory concentration of the extracts ranged from 0.08 to 0.32 mg/mL with S. lancea having the most significant activity. The extract of S. lancea had the best violacein production inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 0.17 mg/mL. Overall, the results obtained indicate that acetone extracts of S. leptodictya, S. lancea, S. batophylla, S. pendulina, B. galpinii, and B. bowkeri possess antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities and can modulate quorum sensing through the inhibition of violacein production. Therefore, these results signify the potential of the selected plant extracts in treating diarrhoea through inhibition of bacterial growth, biofilm formation inhibition, and quorum sensing antagonism, supporting their medicinal use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Informed consent (IC) is constitutionally protected in South Africa based on individual rights to bodily integrity and well-being. In terms of the law, patients cannot be involved in medical treatment or research without IC. This study explored patients' experience on practice and applicability of IC in African traditional medicine (ATM) in Msunduzi and eThekwini municipalities, KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa, to evaluate whether important elements of IC such as full information disclosure, capacity, understanding, and volition are considered or being applied during ATM. Methods. This cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted using semistructured questionnaires administered to patients attending traditional health practitioners' (THPs') treatment centres. Stata V15.1 was used to analyse variables including descriptive and inferential data analysis. Results. One hundred and twenty-nine (129) participants completed this study, of which 62% were females. Most participants were in the age range of 26–35 (38.8%). All respondents were IsiZulu home-language speakers, single (62.8%), employed (48%), and with some tertiary education (48.8%). Most patients were informed about their diagnosis (58.9%), treatment benefits (79.8%), and recommended treatment (79.8%). Fewer were informed about risks of treatment (36.4%), right of refusal (3.1%), and risks of refusing recommended treatment (0.8%). All participants reported satisfaction with information disclosed by the THPs and did not feel coerced to accept treatment. Consent was obtained verbally in all cases. The majority of participants (76.7%) sought surrogate assistance when consulting THPS, and 81.4% preferred being informed about all treatment risks. Most respondents also preferred involvement in healthcare decision-making during ATM. Conclusion. This study reveals that most patients consulting THPs in the KwaZulu-Natal province for treatment are aware of their right to information disclosure and the need to reach agreement before involvement in ATM treatment procedures. The study also showed that some key elements of IC are currently being applied during ATM practice in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) producing Enterobacteriaceae cause severe infections in humans which leads to complicated diseases. There is increasing evidence that cattle contribute to the development and spread of multidrug resistant pathogens and this raises public health concern. Despite this, data on the concurrence of ESBL producing pathogens in cattle, especially in the North-West province are rare. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to isolate, identify and characterise ESBL producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae species from cattle faeces and raw beef samples. Results. A total of 151 samples comprising 55 faeces samples and 96 raw beef samples were collected and 259 nonreplicative potential isolates of Enterobacteriaceae were obtained. One hundred and ninety-six isolates were confirmed as E. coli (114; 44%) and K. pneumoniae (82; 32%) species through amplification of uspA and uidA and ntrA gene fragments, respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility test revealed that large proportions (66.7–100%) of the isolates were resistant to Amoxicillin, Aztreonam, Ceftazidime, Cefotaxime, and Piperacillin and were multidrug resistant isolates. Cluster analysis of antibiotic inhibition zone diameter data revealed close similarities between isolates from different sources or species thus suggested a link in antibiotic exposures. The isolates showing phenotypic resistance against ESBL antimicrobial susceptibility tests were screened for the presence of ESBL gene determinants. It was observed that 53.1% of the isolates harboured ESBL gene determinants. The blaTEM, blaSHV and blaCTX-M genes were detected in E. coli isolates (85.5%, 69.6%, and 58%, respectively) while blaCTX-M and blaOXA were detected in K. pneumoniae (40% and 42.9%, respectively). All the genetically confirmed ESBL producing E. coli and K. pneumoniae isolates were subjected to Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC) PCR analysis. Fingerprinting data revealed great similarities between isolates from different areas and sources which indicates cross-contamination between cattle and beef. Conclusion. This study revealed that cattle and its associated food products, beef in particular, harbour ESBL producing pathogens. And this warrants a need to enforce hygiene measures and to develop other mitigation strategies to minimise the spread of antibiotic resistant pathogens from animals to human. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/aim. In South Africa, contextual factors have been identified as barriers to outdoor, unstructured play. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and resulting progressive HIV encephalopathy (PHE) is a pandemic in this area, associated with development delays that are not addressed by highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART). This study aimed to describe the playfulness in children with HIV and PHE on HAART living in challenging socioeconomic areas in South Africa aged 6 months to 8 years and to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effectiveness of a play-informed, caregiver-implemented, home-based intervention (PICIHBI) for improving play. Methods. A feasibility randomized control trial allowed for comparison of PICIHBI and conventional one-on-one occupational therapy interventions. Children were filmed playing pre-, mid-, and postintervention, using the Test of Playfulness (ToP) to assess playfulness. The PICIHBI comprised of 10 monthly sessions facilitated by an occupational therapist, involving group discussions with caregivers and periods of experiential play. Results. Twenty-four children with HIV and/or PHE were randomized into one of the two intervention groups. Overall, the group (n=24) had a median score of 0 (lowest item score) on nine of 24 ToP items and only had a median score of 3 (highest score) on two items. Pre- to postintervention overall ToP scores improved marginally for the PICIHBI group (n=12) and the conventional group (n=12). Between-group differences were not significant. The PICIHBI group demonstrated a significant increase in one ToP item score at midassessment. No significant ToP item changes were found in the conventional group. Conclusion. Children with HIV were found to have the most difficulty on ToP items relating to the play elements of internal control and freedom from constraints of reality. The PICIHBI did not significantly improve children's play and was not more effective than the conventional intervention. Considerations for feasibility and effectiveness, including barriers to attendance, are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) may inhibit the development of atherosclerosis. We evaluated serum levels of TGF-β isoforms concurrently with serum levels of endotoxin and various inflammatory markers. In addition, we determined if any association exists between polymorphisms in the TGF-β1 gene and atherosclerosis in South African CKD patients. Methods. We studied 120 CKD patients and 40 healthy controls. Serum TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGF-β3, endotoxin, and inflammatory markers were measured. Functional polymorphisms in the TGF-β1 genes were genotyped using a polymerase chain reaction-sequence specific primer method and carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) was assessed by B-mode ultrasonography. Results. TGF-β isoforms levels were significantly lower in the patients with atherosclerosis compared to patients without atherosclerosis (p<0.001). Overall, TGF-β isoforms had inverse relationships with CIMT. TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 levels were significantly lower in patients with carotid plaque compared to those without carotid plaque [TGF-β1: 31.9 (17.2 – 42.2) versus 45.9 (35.4 – 58.1) ng/ml, p=0.016; and TGF-β2: 1.46 (1.30 – 1.57) versus 1.70 (1.50 – 1.87) ng/ml, p=0.013]. In multiple logistic regression, age, TGF-β2, and TGF-β3 were the only independent predictors of subclinical atherosclerosis in CKD patients [age: odds ratio (OR), 1.054; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.003 – 1.109, p=0.039; TGF-β2: OR, 0.996; 95% CI: 0.994–0.999, p=0.018; TGF-β3: OR, 0.992; 95% CI: 0.985–0.999, p=0.029). TGF-β1 genotypes did not influence serum levels of TGF-β1 and no association was found between the TGF-β1 gene polymorphisms and atherosclerosis risk. Conclusion. TGF-β isoforms seem to offer protection against the development of atherosclerosis among South African CKD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is growing concern about alcohol problems in low- and middle-income countries. More research is required, particularly among the younger generation. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of alcohol disorders and associated socioeconomic characteristics among young men and women living in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. This was a cross-sectional population-based study of 977 participants (52% male and 48% female) aged 18-40, the majority of whom lived in low-income areas. Data collection was carried out in 2012 by trained fieldworkers. The Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview ( DSM- IV) was used to investigate the prevalence of alcohol dependence (increased tolerance to alcohol, failed attempt to cut down, risk of physical and mental effects) and alcohol abuse (harmful use, consistent intoxication, risk behaviour, physically hazardous, social problems). A high 12-month prevalence of alcohol dependence was found (26.5% in total; 39.0% among men and 19.1% among women) as well as of alcohol abuse (9% in total; 19.0% among men and 6.0% among women). Few socioeconomic differences emerged among the men, except older men ( OR 1.94, CI 1.11-3.42) and those supported by social grants ( OR 2.28, CI 1.06-4.93), who presented higher odd ratios for alcohol dependence than the reference groups. Among the women, more differences emerged: women who were widowed/single ( OR 2.35, CI 1.20-4.62), had no education ( OR 3.41, CI 1.04-11.21), had a low income ( OR 3.26, CI 1.55-6.80) and had no social support from friends when ill presented higher odd ratios ( OR 1.73, CI 1.07-2.80). In the adjusted model, marital status and low income remained statistically significant. With regard to alcohol abuse, fewer socioeconomic differences emerged. Interventions need to address the early onset of alcohol misuse in order to meet both current needs and long-standing mental and physical illness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim This study aimed to establish and describe the level of communication satisfaction that professional nurses experience in selected public hospitals in the City of Johannesburg, South Africa. Background The success of any organisation depends on the effectiveness of its communication systems and the interaction between staff members. Method Data were collected by means of questionnaires, based on the Communication Satisfaction Questionnaire ( CSQ), from a sample of 265 professional nurses from different categories, chosen using a disproportionate random stratified sampling method. Results The results indicated poor personal feedback between nurse managers (operational managers) and professional nurses, as well as dissatisfaction among nurse managers and professional nurses with regard to informal communication channels. A lack of information pertaining to policies, change, financial standing and achievements of hospitals was identified. Conclusion Nurse managers should play a leadership role in bringing staff of different departments together by creating interactive communication forums for the sharing of ideas. Implications for nursing management The results emphasise the need for nurse managers to improve communication satisfaction at all levels of the hospital services in order to enhance staff satisfaction and create a positive working environment for staff members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To investigate the relationship between non-nursing tasks ( NNTs), nursing tasks left undone ( NTLU) and job satisfaction among professional nurses ( PNs) in South Africa ( SA). Background This study adds to the international debate about the relationship between non-nursing tasks, nursing tasks left undone and job satisfaction by studying the variables at individual nurse and hospital unit level. Method A cross-sectional survey design of 1166 PNs in 60 medical and surgical units in 55 private hospitals and seven public hospitals. Results Nationally, the three main non-nursing tasks performed were clerical duties ( M = 1.81), arranging discharge referrals and transport ( M = 1.38) and performing non-nursing care ( M = 1.31), while the main nursing tasks left undone were comfort/talk with patients (62.2%), educating patients and family (57.9%) and develop/update nursing care plans/pathways (51.6%). Nursing tasks left undone were only related to three non-nursing tasks, and job satisfaction correlated most highly with nursing tasks left undone. Conclusion Professional nurses conduct many non-nursing tasks, and leave several important nursing tasks left undone. Nursing tasks left undone cause the greatest degree of job dissatisfaction amongst professional nurses. Implications for nursing management Role overlapping and work performed by professional nurses below their skill level should be identified and re-organised; support services should be employed and efficiently used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To establish reasons for absenteeism amongst professional nurses, enrolled nurses and enrolled nurse auxiliaries in a general hospital in Durban, in order to recommend strategies that could decrease absenteeism. Background Nurses endure increased workload, resulting in burnout and absenteeism in workplace environments that already suffer staff shortages. Method This study was a quantitative, non-experimental survey. The study population consisted of 60 nurses, including professional and enrolled nurses and enrolled nurse auxiliaries. The survey consisted of closed-ended questions to options of 'agree' and 'disagree' and an open-ended section. Result Family matters, lack of motivation to attend work, illness, finance, favouritism, unfriendly nurse managers, long work hours, increased workload, unsatisfactory work conditions, lack of equipment, unfair promotions and selection of nurses for training, staff shortages, lack of a reward system and incoherent decision-making caused nurse absenteeism. Conclusion Personal, professional and organisational factors may cause nurse absenteeism, crippling the health sector further against the backdrop of human and mechanical resource shortage. Implications for nursing management Nurse managers have an important role in reducing absenteeism by addressing the employees' concerns, which can lead to productivity, increased staff morale, decreased medical hazards and satisfied patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An intercultural partnership was formed to meet South African township high schools' need to provide career education and identify barriers and hope in relation to career choice. The objective of this study was to collect data on the students' perceptions of career choice, barriers prohibiting students from engaging in a career of choice and their general hopefulness. A non-experimental, descriptive study was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis strategies was used. A significant difference was found based on gender in relation to having career options and with regard to how knowledge about careers is gained. Despite barriers to career choice, students are hopeful about the future. Occupational deprivation is a risk factor for South African youth living in disadvantaged communities. Results are from two township high schools in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. English as a second language may have influenced data analysis. Future research must explore the role of occupational therapy in South African township high schools and the issue of career choice among South African youth. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aims of this study were to validate the Maslach Burnout Inventory - Human Services Survey ( MBI- HSS) for registered nurses in South Africa and to analyse the differences between the levels of burnout of different biographical groups. Background The nursing profession is seen as a stressful and emotionally demanding profession, which makes nurses susceptible to burnout. Method A cross-sectional survey design with a stratified random sample ( n = 818) was used. The MBI- HSS and a biographical questionnaire were administered. Results Exploratory factor analysis resulted in a three-factor structure of burnout, consisting of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and personal accomplishment. Construct equivalence and reliability of the three factors were confirmed. Significant differences were found in burnout levels with regard to language, age, rank, job satisfaction, reciprocity, full-time employment and specialised training. Conclusions The MBI- HSS showed acceptable validity and reliability for South African nurses. Burnout is associated with specific factors, including language, age, rank, job satisfaction, reciprocity, full-time employment and specialised training. Implications for nursing management The use of the MBI- HSS is recommended to assess burnout of nurses in South Africa. Organisations employing nurses should intervene to prevent and/or manage burnout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shortage of healthcare workers caring for South Africa's 5-6 million persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLHA) calls for inquiry into workers' challenges and experiences. This exploratory study examines one little-studied challenge: stigmatisation of HIV/AIDS healthcare workers based on their association with PLHA. The authors tested the hypotheses that HIV/AIDS healthcare workers experience stigmatisation due to their association with PLHA, and that such association stigma is correlated with thoughts of leaving the HIV/AIDS field. A sample of 100 participants who provided direct care to PLHA was recruited from a variety of public and private HIV/AIDS care centres in Eastern Cape province, South Africa. Participants attended one of 12 focus groups held between June and August, 2008. They completed a 17-item questionnaire and discussed each item. Findings exhibit the presence of an adverse differentiation and labelling of HIV/AIDS healthcare workers, leading to status loss and discrimination, creating an impetus for HIV/AIDS healthcare workers to leave AIDS work altogether. A significant relationship (χ2TREND = 3.86, df = 1, P = 0.049) was found between contemplation of leaving AIDS work and perception of others' responses to their work with PLHA. In addition, associations emerged between type of AIDS worker and contemplation of working in AIDS care outside of South Africa (Kruskal-Wallis χ2 = 6.96, df = 2, P = 0.031), with doctors and nurses reporting higher frequency of contemplating leaving South Africa to work with PLHA elsewhere (Mann-Whitney z = −2.53, P = 0.011). The study lays the foundation for additional research on the effects of association stigma. In turn, increased efforts to retain and recruit new HIV/AIDS healthcare workers will expand the pool of healthcare personnel to PLHA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

klopper h.c., coetzee s.k., pretorius r. & bester p. (2012) Journal of Nursing Management 20, 685-695 Practice environment, job satisfaction and burnout of critical care nurses in South Africa Aim To describe the practice environment, job satisfaction and burnout of critical-care nurses (CCNs) in South Africa (SA) and the relationship between these variables. Background CCNs are more sensitive to job satisfaction and burnout, and several studies have been published on the relationship between these variables. However, the research that was undertaken did not focus exclusively on the practice environment of CCNs or the context of SA. Method The RN4CAST survey was used. A stratified sample of 55 private hospitals and seven national referral hospitals were included in the study. A total of 935 CCNs completed the survey. Results The practice environment is positive, except for staffing and resource adequacy, and governance. The greatest job dissatisfaction is experienced with regard to wages, opportunities for advancement and study leave. CCNs have a high degree of burnout. Conclusion The high degree of burnout is related to dissatisfaction with wages, opportunities for advancement, study leave and a practice environment with inadequate staffing and resources, and lack of nurse participation in hospital affairs. Implications for nursing management Managers should ensure that adequate numbers of CCNs are on the staff allocation and provide opportunities for CCNS to participate in policy and governance of the hospital, while giving attention to good salaries and providing opportunities for advancement and study leave. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]