Prospective acceptability of mass drug administration for malaria in Kedougou region in Senegal: a mixed method study.

BACKGROUND: In Senegalese high-burden regions, the existing package of interventions is insufficient to reach the malaria elimination goal. Asymptomatic carriers of Plasmodium contribute significantly to malaria persistence and are not targeted by current interventions. The systematic treatment of all individuals in a community (mass drug administration, MDA) is a relevant intervention to tackle asymptomatic infections. The intervention can only be effective with a high participation of the population and, therefore, depends largely on its acceptability. This study aims to investigate the prospective acceptability of MDA in the Kedougou region to inform its potential use in a future strategy. METHODS: Following a 7-construct theoretical framework, prospective acceptability of MDA implemented in the rainy season was studied. In four villages, a sequential mixed design, from qualitative to quantitative, was used. In November 2021, interviews with healthcare professionals and focus groups with villagers were conducted. Findings from thematic analysis informed the development of a questionnaire administered to individuals aged ≥ 15 years in March 2022. Based on the questionnaire, an acceptability score was constructed and associations with socio-demographic factors were investigated using a linear mixed model. RESULTS: The 7 interviews, the 12 focus groups, and the questionnaire administered to 289 individuals demonstrated a good acceptability of MDA. Two potential barriers were identified: the contradiction of taking a medication without feeling sick and the occurrence of side effects; and four facilitators: the perception of malaria as a burden, a good understanding of MDA, a good perceived effectiveness, and the resulting economic benefits. The average acceptability score was 3.5 (range from -7 to + 7). Young adults aged 15 to 21 had a lower acceptability score compared to the other age groups, indicating an additional barrier to acceptability (ß = -0.78 [-1.67;0.1]). CONCLUSION: MDA is a priori acceptable to communities of Kedougou region in Senegal. Sensitization campaigns co-constructed with the communities, especially targeting young adults, are essential to ensure good acceptability.

Designing and validating of a questionnaire measuring perceived self-care ability (PSCA) in chronic stroke patients at home.

BACKGROUND: Patients with a stroke often cannot care for themselves after hospital discharge. Assessment of their self-care ability is the first step in planning post-discharge home care. This study aimed to design and validate a measure of perceived self-care ability (PSCA) in stroke patients. METHODS: A sequential-exploratory mixed method was conducted in Tehran, Iran, in 2020-2021. The qualitative phase involved in-depth semi-structured interviews with 12 participants. Transcripts were content analyzed. The results guided the development of 81 items. psychometric properties such as face validity (Impact Score > 1.5), content validity ratio (CVR > 0.63), content validity index (Item Content Validity Index: ICVI > 0.78, Scale Content Validity Index/Average: SCVI/Ave > 0.8) and Kappa value (Kappa > 0.7), internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha > 0.7), relative reliability (ICC: inter class correlation coefficient), absolute reliability (Standard Error of Measurement: SEM and Minimal Detectable Changes: MDC), convergent validity (Correlation Coefficient between 0.4-0.7), interpretability, responsiveness, feasibility, and ceiling and floor effects were assessed. RESULTS: Content analysis of the qualitative interviews yielded 5 major categories and 9 subcategories that reflected "Perceptual stability", "Cognitive fluctuations", "Sensory, Motor and Physical health"," The subjective nature" and "The dynamic nature" of PSCA. Results of face and content validity reduced the number of items to 32, capturing three dimensions of PSCA in chronic stroke patients; these dimensions included perceptual ability, threatened health status, and sensory, motor, and cognitive ability. The findings supported the reliability and validity of the measure. CONCLUSIONS: The PSCA questionnaire was developed and validated within the Iranian culture. It is useful in assessing the self-care of patients with stroke and in informing practice.

Preferences of support and barriers and facilitators to help-seeking in pregnant women with severe fear of childbirth in Sweden: a mixed-method study.

BACKGROUND: There are few support interventions for women with fear of childbirth tailored towards type of fears and parity. To inform the future development of an acceptable and relevant intervention for women with severe fear of childbirth, primary objectives were to examine: (1) pregnant women's experiences of and preferences for support and (2) barriers and facilitators to help-seeking. Secondary objectives were to examine if there are any differences based on pregnant women's parity. METHODS: Pregnant women with a severe fear of childbirth in Sweden completed an online cross-sectional survey between February and September 2022. Severe fear of childbirth was measured using the fear of childbirth scale. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and free answers were analysed using manifest content analysis. A contiguous approach to integration was adopted with qualitative and quantitative findings reported separately. RESULTS: In total, 609 participants, 364 nulliparous and 245 parous women, had severe fear of childbirth. The main category "A twisting road to walk towards receiving support for fear of childbirth" was explored and described by the generic categories: Longing for support, Struggling to ask for support, and Facilitating aspects of seeking support. Over half (63.5%), of pregnant women without planned or ongoing treatment, wanted support for fear of childbirth. Most (60.2%) pregnant women with ongoing or completed fear of childbirth treatment regarded the treatment as less helpful or not at all helpful. If fear of childbirth treatment was not planned, 35.8% of women would have liked to have received treatment. Barriers to help seeking included stigma surrounding fear of childbirth, previous negative experiences with healthcare contacts, fear of not being believed, fear of not being listened to, and discomfort of having to face their fears. Facilitators to help seeking included receiving respectful professional support that was easily available, flexible, and close to home. CONCLUSIONS: Most pregnant women with severe fear of childbirth felt unsupported during pregnancy. Findings emphasise the need to develop individual and easily accessible psychological support for women with severe fear of childbirth, delivered by trained professionals with an empathetic and respectful attitude.

A mixed methods evaluation of the impact of ECHO® telementoring model for capacity building of community health workers in India.

INTRODUCTION: India has the largest cohort of community health workers with one million Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs). ASHAs play vital role in providing health education and promoting accessible health care services in the community. Despite their potential to improve the health status of people, they remain largely underutilized because of their limited knowledge and skills. Considering this gap, Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO)® India, in collaboration with the National Health System Resource Centre (NHSRC), implemented a 15-h (over 6 months) refresher training for ASHAs using a telementoring interface. The present study intends to assess the impact of the training program for improving the knowledge and skills of ASHA workers. METHODS: We conducted a pre-post quasi-experimental study using a convergent parallel mixed-method approach. The quantitative survey (n = 490) assessed learning competence, performance, and satisfaction of the ASHAs. In addition to the above, in-depth interviews with ASHAs (n = 12) and key informant interviews with other stakeholders (n = 9) examined the experience and practical applications of the training. Inferences from the quantitative and qualitative approaches were integrated during the reporting stage and presented using an adapted Moore's Expanded Outcomes Framework. RESULTS: There was a statistically significant improvement in learning (p = 0.038) and competence (p = 0.01) after attending the training. Participants were satisfied with the opportunity provided by the teleECHO™ sessions to upgrade their knowledge. However, internet connectivity, duration and number of participants in the sessions were identified as areas that needed improvement for future training programs. An improvement in confidence to communicate more effectively with the community was reported. Positive changes in the attitudes of ASHAs towards patient and community members were also reported after attending the training. The peer-to-peer learning through case-based discussion approach helped ensure that the training was relevant to the needs and work of the ASHAs. CONCLUSIONS: The ECHO Model ™ was found effective in improving and updating the knowledge and skills of ASHAs across different geographies in India. Efforts directed towards knowledge upgradation of ASHAs are crucial for strengthening the health system at the community level. The findings of this study can be used to guide future training programs. Trial registration The study has been registered at the Clinical Trials Registry, India (CTRI/2021/10/037189) dated 08/10/2021.

Clients' satisfaction with cervical cancer screening services and influencing factors at public health facilities in Debre Markos town, Northwest Ethiopia, 2022/23: a convergent parallel mixed method.

BACKGROUND: Satisfaction is defined as the perceived fulfillment of patient or client needs and desires through the delivery of healthcare services. In developed countries, more than 60% of women have been screened for cervical cancer. However, only 12% of women in sub-Saharan Africa have been screened for precancerous cervical lesions. There is limited evidence on client satisfaction with cervical cancer screening services (CSCCSS) in Ethiopia, particularly, there is no study conducted by mixed method in the Amhara region. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to assess clients' satisfaction with cervical cancer screening services and influencing factors among women screened in Debre Markos town public health facilities in Northwest Ethiopia, 2022/23. METHODS: A convergent parallel mixed methods design was conducted in Debre Markos town's public health facilities from October 10th, 2022 to January 10th, 2023. For the quantitative wing, a total of 401 cervical cancer screening service users were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. Clients were interviewed on exit in a private area far from the screening unit and the data were entered into Epi-data version 4.6.0.2, then exported to STATA version 14 for analysis. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with client satisfaction with cervical cancer screening services. The qualitative data were collected through in-depth and key informant interviews using a semi-structured topic guide. The data were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach with Open code software (version 4.0.2.3). RESULT: The quantitative wing revealed that overall, 65% (95% CI: 60-69) of respondents were satisfied with the cervical cancer screening services they received. Gender of the provider (AOR: 6.11, 95% CI: 3.23-11.55, p-value = 0.000), waiting time (AOR: 4.77, 95% CI: 1.32-17.31, p-value = 0.017), clients' knowledge (AOR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.12-0.59, p-value = 0.001), and clients' attitude (AOR: 6.43, 95% CI: 3.43-12.03, p-value = 0.000) were significantly associated with CSCCSS. QUALITATIVE RESULT: The thematic analysis revealed three themes. Theme 1: facility-related barriers (shortage of skilled manpower, shortage of infrastructure, providers' skill gap, unavailability of full service, leadership problem, long waiting time). Theme 2: client-related barriers (poor knowledge and attitude, gender preference). Theme 3: facility-related facilitators (free service, presence of supportive partners). CONCLUSION: According to the findings of this study, two-thirds of clients were satisfied with cervical cancer screening services, which was lower than the national target of 80%. Long waiting time, male gender of the service provider, unfavorable attitude, and good knowledge of clients were identified as significant factors negatively affecting client satisfaction with cervical cancer screening.

Implementing peer support work in mental health care in Germany: The methodological framework of the collaborative, participatory, mixed-methods study (ImpPeer-Psy5).

BACKGROUND: Starting in the 1990s in the United States, individuals with lived experience of mental health crises and recovery have been employed as peer support workers (PSWs) internationally. However, the implementation of PSW in clinical contexts remains challenging. METHODS: This manuscript presents and discusses the methodological framework of the ImpPeer-Psy5 study on the PSW implementation in the German mental healthcare sector. This study used a mixed-methods and collaborative research approach, as well as participatory research strategies. After describing the study design, populations, teamwork and assessments, the epistemic challenges of its methodological framework will be critically discussed and how it has iteratively shaped the object of study. DISCUSSION AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The healthcare, policy and funding context of PSW implementation as well as the study's methodological framework have differently influenced the ways in which the implementation of PSW has been conceived in this study. The choice of a collaborative or participatory methodological framework is advised to better align research questions and procedures to the specific needs and challenges of PSWs and other stakeholders concerned with PSW implementation. PATIENT AND PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: The research team of the ImpPeer-Psy5 study was collaboratively staffed by a portion of researchers who also identify as users or survivors of psychiatric services. A nonprofit organization for the training of PSWs served as a practice partner throughout the research process. Different participatory formats involve a significant number of diverse stakeholders relevant to PSW implementation.

"If I use pad, I feel comfortable and safe": a mixed-method analysis of knowledge, attitude, and practice of menstrual hygiene management among in-school adolescent girls in a Nigerian city.

BACKGROUND: Adolescence is a pivotal stage in human development that presents unique challenges, especially for girls navigating the complexities of menstruation. Despite the importance of menstrual hygiene management for adolescent girls' well-being, this vital aspect of personal health is often overlooked, particularly in regions where cultural stigma prevails. This study examines knowledge, attitude, and practice of menstrual hygiene management among in-school adolescent girls in Abuja, Nigeria. METHODS: The study employed a cross-sectional mixed-method design, integrating quantitative surveys with focus group discussions. A survey was conducted among 420 adolescent girls across four government junior secondary schools through a multistage sampling technique. Also, Focus Group Discussions were conducted among 80 respondents in groups of 10 discussants. The quantitative data set was subjected to descriptive and inferential statistical analysis, while the qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. RESULTS: Findings revealed that the majority (53.45%) of the respondents had good knowledge of menstruation and menstrual hygiene management. Junior Secondary School (JSS) 3 students [OR = 2,09; 95% CI = 1.24-3.52] and those who started menstruation at age 15 years and above [OR = 7.52; 95% CI = 1.43-39.49] were associated with increased odds of having good knowledge of menstrual hygiene management. The attitude of most respondents (70.08%) towards menstrual hygiene management was good. Those in the JSS 3 class [OR = 6.47; 95% CI = 3.34-12.54], respondents who are Muslim [OR = 2.29; 95% CI = 1.63-5.48], and those whose parents had tertiary education [OR = 3.58; 95% CI = 1.25-10.25] were more likely to demonstrate more positive attitudes compared to their counterparts whose parents do not have tertiary education. In relation to practice, about 3 in 5 (57.80%) reportedly practise good menstrual hygiene management. Respondents who practice traditional religion [OR = 0.33; 95% CI = 0.02-4.56] were less likely to practise good menstrual hygiene management, while respondents who are the third child of their parents [OR = 2.09; 95% CI = 1.04-4.23] were more likely to practise menstrual hygiene compared to respondents with other birth orders. Qualitative results showed that participants had good knowledge of menstruation and menstrual hygiene management, and mothers were the main source of menstruation-related information. Participants had mixed feelings and reactions during their first menstruation, with 3 in 5 participants reporting experiencing menstruation-related stigma restrictions when menstruating. CONCLUSIONS: In-school adolescent girls in Abuja, Nigeria, have good menstruation-related knowledge and positive attitudes, as well as practise menstrual hygiene management. Students' class and age at first menstruation were major factors associated with good knowledge of menstruation and menstrual hygiene management; respondents' class, religion and parents' educational qualification were associated with a positive attitude, while respondents' religion and parity line were associated with menstrual hygiene practice. Future interventions should focus on conducting school and community-level awareness programs to increase knowledge and dispel myths and misconceptions about menstruation and menstrual hygiene management.

Equitable access to quality injury care; Equi-Injury project protocol for prioritizing interventions in four low- or middle-income countries: a mixed method study.

BACKGROUND: Equitable access to quality care after injury is an essential step for improved health outcomes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We introduce the Equi-Injury project, in which we will use integrated frameworks to understand how to improve equitable access to quality care after injury in four LMICs: Ghana, Pakistan, Rwanda and South Africa. METHODS: This project has 5 work packages (WPs) as well as essential cross-cutting pillars of community engagement, capacity building and cross-country learning. In WP1, we will identify needs, barriers, and facilitators to impactful stakeholder engagement in developing and prioritising policy solutions. In WP2, we will collect data on patient care and outcomes after injuries. In WP3, we will develop an injury pathway model to understand which elements in the pathway of injury response, care and treatment have the biggest impact on health and economic outcomes. In WP4, we will work with stakeholders to gain consensus on solutions to address identified issues; these solutions will be implemented and tested in future research. In WP5, in order to ascertain where learning is transferable across contexts, we will identify which outcomes are shared across countries. The study has received approval from ethical review boards (ERBs) of all partner countries in South Africa, Rwanda, Ghana, Pakistan and the University of Birmingham. DISCUSSION: This health system evaluation project aims to provide a deeper understanding of injury care and develop evidence-based interventions within and across partner countries in four diverse LMICs. Strong partnership with multiple stakeholders will facilitate utilisation of the results for the co-development of sustainable interventions.

Mixed method evaluation of a learning from excellence programme for community health workers in Neno, Malawi.

BACKGROUND: Community Health Workers (CHWs) play an essential role in linking communities to facility-based healthcare. However, CHW programmes have often been hampered by low levels of staff motivation, and new tools aimed at improving staff motivation and work environment are needed. One such intervention is the "Learning from Excellence" (LfE) programme. We aimed to assess feasibility, outputs, and impact of a co-designed LfE programme on CHW motivation, in Neno District. METHODS: We conducted a convergent mixed-method evaluation of the LfE programme. Co-design of the programme and forms took place between October 2019 and January 2020. LfE forms submitted between September and November 2020 were analysed using descriptive statistics and memos summarising answers to the open-ended question. To investigate experiences with LfE we conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, CHWs, and site supervisors, which were analysed thematically. A pre-post intervention questionnaire was developed to assess the impact of the co-designed LfE intervention on CHW motivation and perceived supervision. Outcomes were triangulated into a logic model. RESULTS: In total 555 LfE forms were submitted, with 34.4% of CHWs in Neno District submitting at least one LfE report. Four themes were identified in the interviews: LfE implementation processes, experience, consequences, and recommendations. A total of 50 CHWs participated in the questionnaire in January 2020 and 46 of them completed the questionnaire in December 2020. No statistically significant differences were identified between pre-and post-LfE measurements for both motivation (Site F: p = 0.86; Site G: p = 0.31) and perceived supervision (Site F: p = 0.95; Site G: p = 0.45). A logic model, explaining how the LfE programme could impact CHWs was developed. CONCLUSIONS: Many CHWs participated in the LfE intervention between September 2020 and November 2020. LfE was welcomed by CHWs and stakeholders as it allowed them to appreciate excellent work in absence of other opportunities to do so. However, no statistically significant differences in CHW motivation and perceived supervision were identified. While the intervention was feasible in Neno District, we identified several barriers and facilitators for implementation. We developed a logic model to explain contextual factors, and mechanisms that could lead to LfE outcomes for CHWs in Neno District. The developed logic model can be used by those designing and implementing interventions like LfE for health workers.

Engaging healthcare professionals and patient representatives in the development of a quality model for hospitals: a mixed-method study.

Top-down and externally imposed quality requirements can lead to improvement but do not seem as sustainable as intended. There is a need for a quality model that intrinsically motivates healthcare professionals to contribute to quality and safe care in hospitals. This study shows how a quality model that matches the identity and the quality vision of the organization was developed. A multimethod design with three phases was used in the development of the model at a large teaching hospital in Belgium. In the first phase, 14 focus groups and 19 interviews with staff members were conducted to obtain an overview of the quality and safety challenges, complemented by a plenary discussion with the members of the patient advisory council. In the second phase, the challenges that had been captured were further assessed using a hospital-wide survey for all hospital staff. Finally, a newly established quality review board (with internal and external stakeholders) critically evaluated the input of Phases 1 and 2 and defined the basic quality standards to be implemented in the hospital. A first evaluation 2 years after the implementation was conducted based on (i) patients' perceptions of quality of care and patient safety by publicly available indicators collected in 2016, 2019, and 2022 and (ii) staff experiences and perceptions regarding the acceptability of the new model gathered through (grouped) interviews and an open questionnaire. The quality model consists of eight broad themes, including norms for the hospital staff (n = 27), sustained with quality systems (n = 8), and organizational support (n = 6), with aid from adequate management and leadership (n = 6). The themes were converted into 46 standards. These should be supported within a safe, efficient, and caring work environment. The new model was launched in the hospital in June 2021. The evaluation shows a significant difference in quality and safety on different dimensions as perceived by hospitalized patients. The perceived added value of the participatory model is a better fit with the needs of employees and the fact that the model can be adjusted to the specific context of the different hospital departments. The lack of hard indicators is seen as a challenge in monitoring quality and safety. The participation of various stakeholders inside and outside the organization in defining the quality challenges resulted in the creation of a participatory quality model for the hospital, which leads towards a better-supported quality policy in the hospital.

Adoptees' experiences of using direct-to-consumer genetic testing and determinants of this use: A mixed study in Quebec.

Adoptees' use of direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DTC-GT) is known to raise both ethical and emotional issues, and it can also challenge their identity. The objective of the present study was to describe the experiences of DTC-GT use among adoptees living in Quebec and to better understand the benefits and disadvantages of use. We adopted a mixed method approach whereby a questionnaire comprising standardized scales was administered to 143 adoptees who had used genetic testing and 40 adoptees who had not. Semi-structured interviews were performed with five respondents from the DTC-GT use group. The quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed and integrated together using the Pillar Integration Process. The results highlighted familial reunion as the primary motivation for the use of DTC-GT among responding adoptees. Reported challenges included needing help with results interpretation, as well as the need for autonomy in the ownership of the results. Participants describe not being particularly concerned by potential ethical issues, describing the benefits of the tests as more important than possible disadvantages. Overall, participants had a good experience of using DTC-GT, and users were less anxious. Various factors associated with the use and experience of use were highlighted (age, psychological distress, community membership, etc.). The results from this study provide much-needed information about adoptees' needs regarding DTC-GT, highlight key risk factors, and introduces best practice recommendations so that adoptees are properly informed and supported when pursuing DTC-GT.

Development and psychometric evaluation of the sexual satisfaction questionnaire for postmenopausal women (PWSSQ): an exploratory mixed method study protocol.

BACKGROUND: The concept of sexual satisfaction in menopausal women is very different from that in premenopausal women, and this difference is due to aging and physical, hormonal, cultural, and psychological changes. Therefore, the first step in discovering methods for assessing sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women is to develop a measurement instrument. This study was conducted to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of a sexual satisfaction instrument for postmenopausal women. METHODS: The current study is an exploratory-sequential mixed-methods research project that will be divided into two parts: qualitative and quantitative. Aligned with the primary objective of the research, which is to elucidate the concept of sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women, the hybrid concept analysis model developed by Schwartz and Kim will be employed. This model comprises three key phases: the theoretical phase, the fieldwork phase, and the final analytical phase. Those who met the inclusion criteria and exhibited maximum variance in terms of age, educational level, employment status, and menopausal duration were recruited. The conventional content analysis will be carried out following the steps proposed by Graneheim and Lundman. Second, in the quantitative phase, the psychometric properties of the instrument were evaluated, including the content, face and construct validity and reliability via internal consistency and stability. The psychometric properties described in the COSMIN checklist will be utilized for designing the instrument. DISCUSSION: A valid and reliable scale for evaluating the sexual satisfaction of postmenopausal women should be developed, and educational content should be designed to improve the sexual satisfaction of this group of women.

Menopause is a natural event that is accompanied by numerous physical and psychological changes that create a complex period in the life of postmenopausal women. Sexual satisfaction is a component related to human sexuality and is known as the last stage of the sexual response cycle. Sexual satisfaction is defined as the emotional response resulting from the mental evaluation of positive and negative things in a sexual relationship. Sexual satisfaction is one of the important factors of satisfaction in married life. People who have sexual satisfaction have a significantly better quality of life than those who do not have sexual satisfaction. The concept of sexual satisfaction in menopausal women is very different from that in premenopausal women, and this difference is due to aging and physical, hormonal, cultural, and psychological changes. Sexual satisfaction is important for researchers for two reasons. First, sexual satisfaction provides a mechanism through which to assess a relationship partner's performance. Second, sexual satisfaction is a predictor of other aspects of the relationship, such as marital quality and stability. To discuss feelings and discover methods for achieving sexual satisfaction in postmenopausal women, it is necessary to understand the factors affecting sexual satisfaction and dissatisfaction in this group. The existing tools in the field of women's sexual satisfaction are not designed for this age group (menopausal women) and do not have the necessary comprehensiveness and adequacy to assess sexual satisfaction in menopausal women. Therefore, this study will be conducted to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of the sexual satisfaction of postmenopausal women.

Intimate partner violence after childbirth: an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study protocol.

BACKGROUND: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is the most common form of violence against women. Postpartum IPV refers to any type of IPV that occurs up to one year after childbirth and has many adverse impacts on mothers and their children. Considering the lack of sufficient information on the prevalence and factors related to IPV after childbirth in Iran, this study aimed to evaluate the frequency and severity of IPV, its different forms, and psychosocial factors related to IPV, as well as to explore how IPV is perceived among mothers one year after childbirth. METHODS: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was used to conduct this study in two phases. The first phase is a cross-sectional study that will be performed on postpartum mothers who have a one-year-old child referred to health care centers in the southern region of Tehran, Iran, with the aim of determining the prevalence of IPV and its related factors. The second phase is a qualitative conventional content analysis study with the purpose of exploring women's experiences and perceptions of IPV and its preventive or protective factors. Purposive sampling will be used. Based on the results of the quantitative phase, mothers who are at the two ends of the IPV spectrum (based on their total Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS-2) scores) will be selected, and in-depth and semistructured interviews will be conducted with them. Finally, the researchers will provide an interpretation of the quantitative results using qualitative data. DISCUSSION: This is the first study that uses a mixed methods approach to explain different dimensions of IPV, its related factors, and mothers' perceptions of it. By providing a better understanding of this phenomenon, it is hoped that the results of this research will be used by policymakers and officials of educational and cultural systems to plan and provide effective interventions, enact laws, and present educational and cultural programs to prevent IPV after childbirth. ETHICAL CODE: IR.TUMS.FNM.REC1400.200.

Intimate partner violence is the most common form of violence against women, with a higher prevalence in Asian and Eastern Mediterranean countries, including Iran. The period after childbirth is a stressful and anxiety-provoking event due to the increased physical, psychological, social, and economic needs of parents, leading to intimate partner violence. Studies show that women who experience violence after childbirth face many physical, sexual, and emotional problems. Additionally, it will have a negative impact on their baby. Many factors can lead to intimate partner violence, among which psychological factors are among the most important. Therefore, we decided to perform a study in two phases with the aim of determining the prevalence and factors related to intimate partner violence. In the first phase, we will study Iranian women who have a one-year child living in southern Tehran city and ask them to complete questionnaires related to intimate partner violence. In the second phase, we will conduct an interview with women who have experienced violence after childbirth to obtain more information about the factors involved.

Assessing the Usage and Usability of a Mental Health Advice Telephone Service in Uganda: Mixed Methods Study.

BACKGROUND: Harnessing mobile health (mHealth) solutions could improve the delivery of mental health services and mitigate their impact in Uganda and similar low-resource settings. However, successful adoption requires that mHealth solutions have good usability. We have previously implemented a telephone service to provide mental health information and advice in English and Luganda, utilizing an automated interactive voice response (IVR) system linked to live agents, including mental health care workers and peer support workers. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to assess the usage and usability of this mental health telephone service. METHODS: We obtained usage data from the system's call logs over 18 months to study call volumes and trends. We then surveyed callers to gather their characteristics and assess usability using the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire. Additionally, call recordings were evaluated for conversation quality by 3 independent health care professionals, using the Telephone Nursing Dialogue Process, and correlations between quality and usability aspects were investigated. RESULTS: Over 18 months, the system received 2863 meaningful calls (ie, calls that went past the welcome message) from 1125 unique telephone numbers. Of these, 1153 calls (40.27%) stopped at the prerecorded IVR information, while 1710 calls (59.73%) opted to speak to an agent. Among those who chose to speak with an agent, 1292 calls (75.56%) were answered, 393 calls (22.98%) went to voicemail and were returned in the following working days, and 25 calls (1.46%) were not answered. Usage was generally sustained over time, with spikes in call volume corresponding to marketing events. The survey (n=240) revealed that most callers were caregivers of patients with mental health issues (n=144, 60.0%) or members of the general public (n=46, 19.2%), while a few were patients with mental health issues (n=44, 18.3%). Additionally, the majority were male (n=143, 59.6%), spoke English (n=180, 75.0%), had postsecondary education (n=164, 68.3%), lived within 1 hour or less from Butabika Hospital (n=187, 77.9%), and were aged 25-44 years (n=160, 66.7%). The overall usability score for the system was 4.12 on a 5-point scale, significantly higher than the recommended target usability score of 4 (P=.006). The mean scores for usability components ranged from 3.66 for reliability to 4.41 for ease of use, with all components, except reliability, scoring higher than 4 or falling within its CI. Usability scores were higher for Luganda speakers compared with English speakers, but there was no association with other participant characteristics such as sex, distance from the hospital, age, marital status, duration of symptoms, or treatment status. The quality of call conversations (n=50) was rated at 4.35 out of 5 and showed a significant correlation with usability (Pearson r=0.34, P=.02). CONCLUSIONS: We found sustained usage of the mental health telephone service, along with a positive user experience and high satisfaction across various user characteristics. mHealth solutions like this should be embraced and replicated to enhance the delivery of health services in Uganda and similar low-resource settings.

Potential, Pitfalls, and Future Directions for Remote Monitoring of Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Multicenter Mixed Methods Study in Routine Cystic Fibrosis Care.

BACKGROUND: The current literature inadequately addresses the extent to which remote monitoring should be integrated into care models for chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs). OBJECTIVE: This study examined a remote monitoring program (RMP) in cystic fibrosis (CF) by exploring experiences, future perspectives, and use behavior over 3 years, with the aim of developing future directions for remote monitoring in CRDs. METHODS: This was a mixed methods, multicenter, observational study in 5 Dutch CF centers following a sequential explanatory design. Self-designed questionnaires using the technology acceptance model were sent out to people with CF who had a minimum of 12 months of experience with the RMP and local health care professionals (HCPs). Questionnaire outcomes were used to inform semistructured interviews with HCPs and people with CF. Qualitative findings were reported following the COREQ (Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research) checklist. Anonymous data on use frequency of all people with CF were analyzed. RESULTS: Between the second quarter of 2020 and the end of 2022, a total of 608 people with CF were enrolled in the program, and a total of 9418 lung function tests and 2631 symptom surveys were conducted. In total, 65% (24/37) of HCPs and 89% (72/81) of people with CF responded to the questionnaire, and 7 HCPs and 12 people with CF participated in semistructured interviews. Both people with CF and HCPs were positive about remote monitoring in CF care and found the RMP a good addition to daily care (people with CF: 44/72, 61%; HCPs: 21/24, 88%). Benefits ranged from supporting individual patients to reducing health care consumption. The most valued monitoring tool was home spirometry by both people with CF (66/72, 92%) and HCPs (22/24, 92%). Downsides included the potential to lose sight of patients and negative psychosocial effects, as 17% (12/72) of people with CF experienced some form of stress due to the RMP. A large majority of people with CF (59/72, 82%) and HCPs (22/24, 92%) wanted to keep using the RMP in future, with 79% (19/24) of HCPs and 75% (54/72) of people with CF looking forward to more replacement of in-person care with digital care during periods of well-being. Future perspectives for the RMP were centered on creating hybrid care models, personalizing remote care, and balancing individual benefits with monitoring burden. CONCLUSIONS: Remote monitoring has considerable potential in supporting people with CF and HCPs within the CF care model. We identified 4 practice-based future directions for remote monitoring in CF and CRD care. The strategies, ranging from patient driven to prediction driven, can help clinicians, researchers, and policy makers navigate the rapidly changing digital health field, integrate remote monitoring into local care models, and align remote care with patient and clinician needs.

Utilisation of public healthcare services by an indigenous group: a mixed-method study among Santals of West Bengal, India.

A barrier to meeting the goal of universal health coverage in India is the inequality in utilisation of health services between indigenous and non-indigenous people. This study aimed to explore the determinants of utilisation, or non-utilisation, of public healthcare services among the Santals, an indigenous community living in West Bengal, India. The study holistically explored the utilisation of public healthcare facilities using a framework that conceptualised service coverage to be dependent on a set of determinants - viz. the nature and severity of the ailment, availability, accessibility (geographical and financial), and acceptability of the healthcare options and decision-making around these further depends on background characteristics of the individual or their family/household. This cross-sectional study adopts ethnographic approach for detailed insight into the issue and interviewed 422 adult members of Santals living in both rural (Bankura) and urban (Howrah) areas of West Bengal for demographic, socio-economic characteristics and healthcare utilisation behaviour using pre-tested data collection schedule. The findings revealed that utilisation of the public healthcare facilities was low, especially in urban areas. Residence in urban areas, being female, having higher education, engaging in salaried occupation and having availability of private allopathic and homoeopathic doctors in the locality had higher odds of not utilising public healthcare services. Issues like misbehaviour from the health personnel, unavailability of medicine, poor quality of care, and high patient load were reported as the major reasons for non-utilisation of public health services. The finding highlights the importance of improving the availability and quality of care of healthcare services for marginalised populations because these communities live in geographically isolated places and have low affordability of private healthcare. The health programme needs to address these issues to improve the utilisation and reduce the inequality in healthcare utilisation, which would be beneficial for all segments of Indian population.

Challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's HIV harm reduction centers: a mixed-methods study.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to nations worldwide, affecting various sectors of society. Women's HIV harm reduction centers, which provide critical services, have also been affected by these difficulties. This study aimed to examine the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on the services offered by women's HIV harm reduction centers from the perspective of clients. METHODS: A convergent mixed-method design was utilized to gain in-depth insights into the challenges of COVID-19 on the services provided by women's HIV harm reduction centers, counseling centers, and night shelters that cater to women at risk, such as drug users, sex workers, and the homeless population, in three provinces (Tehran, Khuzestan, and Kermanshah) in Iran. The study was conducted from January to May 2023. The quantitative aspect of the study employed a cross-sectional method with a sample size of 430 individuals. A researcher-developed questionnaire was used to assess a range of services. The qualitative part of the study involved traditional content analysis and included 32 individual interviews. The integration of qualitative and quantitative results was performed during the interpretation phase to provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges of COVID-19 on women's HIV harm reduction centers. RESULTS: In the quantitative phase, the mean age of women was 39.0 ± 10.2 years. 165 women reported a history of COVID-19, which accounts for 38.4% of the total. More than half of them (n = 102, 61.8%) recovering at home. The majority of women (n = 365, 84.9%) mentioned receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. COVID-19 diagnostic tests were conducted for 74.2% (n = 319) of women. Women expressed higher satisfaction with the services (HIV prevention services, and accommodation services) before the COVID-19 pandemic compared to the satisfaction during the pandemic. The qualitative analysis identified emerging challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic in two categories: personal challenges and mismanagement of services, comprising nineteen subcategories. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study highlight the adverse impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the services provided by women's HIV harm reduction centers, in contrast to the pre-pandemic period. To mitigate these negative effects, it is crucial to implement preventive measures and practical solutions. This may involve addressing the personal and management challenges of the centers.

Intervention Satisfaction and Feasibility of the Active Children Through In-Home, Web-Based Physical Activity (ACTIWEB-PA) Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial in Children.

PURPOSE: We assessed feasibility and satisfaction of the Active Children Through In-Home Web-Based Physical Activity pilot trial, delivering a web-based movement integration intervention to children. METHOD: Eighty-two children (8-11 y), insufficiently active, were randomly assigned to either exercise intervention (n = 41) or wait-list control (n = 41). The intervention involved 20-minute exercise videos, 5 times weekly for 12 weeks, using the UNICEF Kid Power website at home. Feasibility metrics included recruitment (target: 70%), retention (target: 80%), adherence rates, and satisfaction assessed through surveys and interviews. Retention rate-1 was percentage completing posttest surveys, and retention rate-2 was percentage completing posttest accelerometry. Parent logs assessed adherence. RESULTS: Recruitment, retention-1, and retention-2 rates were 73.6%, 93.9%, and 80.5%, respectively. The intervention group had 5 dropouts; wait-list control had none. Sixty-nine percent showed high intervention adherence. Parents consistently expressed satisfaction, finding the intervention enjoyable and beneficial. Although children initially provided positive reviews, their interest declined over time, with increasing expressions of monotony. Suggestions to increase novelty and incorporate a social component were made by participants. The intervention was also found to be particularly useful during inclement weather. CONCLUSION: Active Children Through In-Home Web-Based Physical Activity trial exceeded feasibility targets of recruitment and retention and achieved moderate overall adherence. Future trials should emphasize novelty and peer participation for improved adherence and satisfaction.

The managers' perspectives on service providing in women's harm reduction centers during the COVID-19 pandemic: mixed method study.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for managers overseeing women's harm reduction centers. This study seeks to capture managers' perspectives on the service providing in women's harm reduction centers during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: This convergent mixed-method study conducted in three provinces of Iran: Tehran, Khuzestan, and Kermanshah. The study was carried out between January and May 2023. In the quantitative part, the researchers utilized reports from 10 center managers. A researcher-designed questionnaire was employed to collect data on a wide range of services and referrals provided by the centers. The qualitative part of the research involved conventional content analysis and included 12 individual interviews. Two directors from the Ministry of Health and ten managers of women's harm reduction centers participated in the interviews. During the interpretation phase, the researchers compared the quantitative and qualitative findings to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the topic. RESULTS: During the quantitative stage of the study, it was observed that all the managers were women, with an average age of 40.7 ± 7 years. More than half of the managers had obtained a postgraduate education (n = 6, 60%), and a majority of them were married (n = 7, 70%). Additionally, 40% of the managers (n = 4) were working as contractors. During the non-COVID-19 period, there were higher coverage by centers and residents, more referrals of non-injecting drug users and sex workers, and a higher number of group counseling sessions in all three provinces compared to the COVID-19 period. The qualitative analysis revealed two primary themes: "challenges" and "capabilities." CONCLUSIONS: During the COVID-19 pandemic, providing some services and client referrals decreased in the centers, and center managers faced increased challenges. Many of these challenges were in the communication, executive, management, structure, education, financial, civilization, facilities, and socio-cultural sectors. Managers used their skills to manage and control these challenges. It is important to focus on these challenges and managerial capabilities to effectively handle future crises.

How do patients with rheumatoid arthritis perceive their self-care and self-care support? A mixed-method study.

AIM: To explore self-care and needs and preferences towards tailored self-care support of patients with rheumatoid arthritis at the outpatient clinic. DESIGN: A sequential explanatory mixed method design. METHODS: The Self-Care of Chronic Illness Inventory questionnaire, two focus groups and six semi-structured interviews were conducted between November 2021 and April 2023. Questionnaires of 107 patients were descriptively analysed. Subsequently, 11 patients and 2 healthcare professionals participated in the focus groups and 6 patients in the interviews, which were thematically analysed. RESULTS: Quantitative and qualitative data corresponded and showed that patients perform various self-care activities at an adequate level and have strategies to exert control and reduce symptoms. One key theme emerged: 'Not only being the person with rheumatoid arthritis' (RA) as patients primarily aim to get on with their lives. Nine subthemes covered self-care activities for maintaining health including staying physically active, finding the right medication and dose and adapting their diet. Patients differed in how they self-monitored their symptoms. Recognizing symptoms and finding strategies to manage symptoms included the process of body listening in which patient seek and try different strategies to find what works for them and incorporate routines. Patients experienced positive effects of a warm or cold environment. Patients felt the need for practical and emotional support from others and preferred having credible information. CONCLUSION: Patients perform adequate self-care including a diversity of self-care activities to get on with their lives and have strategies to reduce and control the symptoms and impact of RA. IMPLICATIONS: Tailoring self-care support to patients' individual needs and preferences is necessary to help patients cope with the erratic nature of the disease and maintain their quality of life. Healthcare providers need to provide practical and emotional support and use credible information to allow patients to make self-care decisions to manage their lives. REPORTING METHODS: Quantitative finding are reported according to the STROBE guidelines and qualitative finding are reported according to the COREQ guidelines. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER ADD: Patients perform various self-care activities at an adequate level and have strategies to exert control and reduce symptoms. Patients primarily aim to continue their lives and not being seen as the person with rheumatoid arthritis. Healthcare professionals need to provide practical and emotional support and use credible information to inform patients' self-care decision-making. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.