Knowledge and Practices of the Fourth Year Degree Nursing Students Regarding Tuberculosis Management at a University in Khomas Region, Namibia

Abstract

Background: Namibia has one of the highest incidence rates in the world reporting nearly 10 000 cases in 2015, with multi-drug resistants’ TB prevalence of between 3.9 percent for new cases 8.7 percent for previously treated cases. Regardless of Namibia being among the countries that are worst affected by TB, significant improvements have been made in the country in terms of TB diagnosis, treatment and care. Intensified screening, introduction of WHO-recommended rapid molecular testing for TB, Directly Observed Treatment (DOT, Tuberculosis Preventative Therapy (TPT) eligible for PLHIV and others have been adapted to deal with increasing TB incidence. Methods: The researcher applied a quantitative descriptive research design carried out among fourth year nursing students at the University of Namibia, main campus. Data was collected using self- developed and self-handed printed questionnaires. A simple random sampling method was used to obtain a sample from the population. The population size of the study was 74, however only 69 responses were attainable. Results: The overall perceived knowledge regarding TB management was generally satisfactory. The findings of this study also revealed that nursing students had fair practices towards the management of TB as some students still practiced bad and unethical practices regarding TB management. Conclusion: The University of Namibia should also introduce a specific module, preferably from 1st year specifically on basic TB management. Future researches also recommended on topics such as Experiences of nursing students working in TB wards/clinics and the knowledge, attitude and practices of nursing students when caring for TB positive patients.

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