The Uganda Journal of Nursing and Midwifery is a peer-reviewed scholarly platform dedicated to advancing knowledge, practice, and policy in nursing and midwifery. The journal serves as a critical avenue for disseminating high-quality research, evidence-based practices, and innovations that contribute to improved healthcare outcomes and patient safety. Grounded in the mandate of the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council, the journal focuses on strengthening professional standards in education, clinical practice, and regulation of nursing and midwifery. It publishes original research, reviews, case studies, and policy analyses that support the development of competent, ethical, and accountable health professionals. The journal provides a platform for practitioners, educators, researchers, and policymakers to share insights that enhance the quality of healthcare services in Uganda and beyond. By fostering a culture of research and continuous professional development, the journal contributes to the Council’s mission of protecting the public, promoting excellence in practice, and advancing the nursing and midwifery professions. The journal is published twice a year (May and November), with Vol. 1, Issue 1 (May 2026) as the launch issue.
Fetal distress, interventions and newborn outcomes at a National Referral Hospital in Kampala Uganda: A retrospective study
Background: Fetal distress, also known as non-reassuring fetal status, is a major contributor to poor newborn outcomes before and after birth. This study examined the clinical diagnosis of fetal distress and the newborn outcomes in a three-month cohort of women. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study where 5404 maternity case records of women who gave birth at Kawempe National Referral Hospital during June to August 2019 were reviewed. Data were collected by trained nurse/midwives from the records using a checklist designed in Kobo Collect software. The data were exported to Stata 14 for cleaning and analysis. The prevalence of fetal distress was calculated as a percentage of those with a diagnosis out of the total number of records. All other data were summarized descriptively, and chi-square tests were computed to assess the association between fetal distress and newborn outcomes. Results: The prevalence of fetal distress was 257/4799 (5.4%), and of these, 51.3% had an abnormal fetal heart rate < 120b/min or > 160b/min. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid was present in 65% of all women diagnosed with fetal distress. Interventions for fetal distress during labour were mainly: administration of intravenous fluids (28.8%), monitoring of the fetal heart rate (10.5%), and lateral positioning (4.3%). An emergency cesarean section was the most common mode of birth planned for women with fetal distress (90.7%), although eventually, only 76.7% delivered by cesarean section. Women with fetal distress were more likely (12.5%, p<0.001) to have newborns with low Apgar scores <7 at 5 minutes. Conclusion: Fetal distress occurred in 5.4% of case records reviewed, with the majority undergoing a cesarean section birth. Despite the interventions such as intravenous fluid infusion, FHR monitoring, and lateral positioning, poor outcomes were observed more in those with fetal distress than in those without.
Section of Clinical Nursing & Midwifery Practice
Copyright (c) 2026 Elizabeth Ayebare, Rose C. Nabirye, Grace Ndeezi, Allen Nabisere, Musa Sekikuubo, James K. Tumwine, Jolly Nankunda (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Factors Influencing the Utilization of Occupational Therapy Services among Adolescents with Substance Use Disorder in Western Uganda
Background Substance use remains high among adolescents in Uganda. The use of occupational therapy services has been found to restore cognitive function among individuals with substance use disorder, with limited data in Uganda. Objective: This study assessed the uptake of occupational therapy services and factors associated with the utilization of occupational therapy among adolescents with substance use disorder. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using consecutive sampling to select 106 adolescents. Data were analyzed using SPSS, reporting descriptive statistics and influencing factors utilizing linear regression. Results: Overall awareness and utilization of occupational therapy services were 54.7% and 67%, respectively. However, the variables of age (aPR=0.48, 95% CI=0.32-1.70), religion (aPR=0.54, 95% CI=0.63-2.52), education (aPR=0.31, 95% CI=0.74-2.63), and occupation (aPR=0.86, 95% CI=0.43-2.78) did not show a statistically significant association with the utilization of these services at the multivariate level. Conclusion: The overall awareness and uptake of occupational services among adolescents remain suboptimal. For occupational therapy to effectively address substance use disorder in adolescents, it's crucial to define and deliver innovative services tailored to their needs proactively. Further research should focus on conducting qualitative studies to explore the barriers and facilitators that adolescents encounter in accessing occupational therapy services.
Settings Section of Community Health Nursing
Copyright (c) 2026 Benjamin Betunga, Gladys Nakidde (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Assessing Impact of Heat Waves on Pregnancy and Lactation Amidst Climate Change: A Scoping Review.
Background: The escalation of heat waves, attributed to climate change, represents a global public health concern, with pregnant and lactating women identified as particularly vulnerable due to Physiological and hormonal changes. Aim: To review the existing research on the effects of heat waves on pregnancy and lactation, identifying potential health risks and outcomes. Methods: A structured search across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was conducted using terms related to heat waves, pregnancy, lactation, and climate change. Inclusion criteria focused on peer-reviewed empirical studies in English. Results: Heat waves are linked to increased risks of preterm labor, low birth weight, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia in pregnant women, and reduced milk production and altered composition in lactating women. Vulnerable groups, especially in low-income and heat-prone regions, are disproportionately affected. Conclusion: Heat waves pose significant risks to pregnant and lactating women, necessitating urgent public health interventions and policies. Future research should explore long-term effects and effective mitigation strategies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Susan Anyango, Mary Grace Nakate (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Critical Analysis of the Evidence Regarding the Impact of Obesity on Male Fertility and Its Implications in Assisted Reproductive Technology Treatment. Literature Review
Background: Obesity is increasingly recognized as an important modifiable factor in male infertility. It may impair male reproductive function through disruption of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, altered sex hormone balance, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, chronic low-grade inflammation, increased scrotal temperature, and adipokine- mediated effects, particularly involving leptin and inhibin B. These mechanisms may adversely affect spermatogenesis, semen quality, sexual function, and outcomes of assisted reproductive technology treatment. Methods: This literature review critically analysed published evidence on the relationship between obesity and male fertility, with particular focus on hormonal alterations, inflammatory pathways, oxidative stress, scrotal thermoregulation, adipokines, and the implications of male obesity for assisted reproductive technology outcomes. Results: The evidence suggests that obesity negatively affects male fertility through multiple interacting mechanisms. Increased aromatization of testosterone to oestrogen in adipose tissue may suppress gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone secretion, resulting in reduced testosterone production and impaired spermatogenesis. Obesity-associated insulin resistance and reduced sex hormone-binding globulin further worsen androgen deficiency. Chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, raised scrotal temperature, and elevated leptin levels may damage sperm membranes and DNA, impair sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and reproductive potential. Evidence on the effect of male obesity on ART outcomes remains conflicting, although some studies suggest poorer embryo quality and reduced clinical pregnancy and live birth rates. Conclusion: Obesity has a significant adverse impact on male reproductive health through hormonal, metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative mechanisms. It may contribute to male subfertility and may influence ART outcomes, although further studies are needed to clarify the independent effect of male obesity after controlling for confounders such as female BMI, age, and other causes of infertility. Recommendation: Men presenting for fertility care should be assessed for obesity and related metabolic risk factors. Weight optimization, lifestyle modification, and management of obesity-related comorbidities should be incorporated into preconception and fertility counselling. Further well-designed systematic studies meta-analysis are recommended to better define the mechanisms linking obesity with impaired male fertility and to clarify its independent effect on assisted reproductive technology outcomes
Settings Section of Digital Health & Innovations
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr Aloy UGWU Okechukwu, Sunday Isaac Omisakin, Kehinde Elizabeth Adeyemo, Adebayo Williams (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Misconduct among nurses and midwives: A Retrospective Descriptive Study of cases handled at the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council from 2017 to 2021
Background Media reports on the misconduct of nurses and midwives, including cases of fake credentials, drug theft, and incompetence, are on the rise. However, there are no published studies currently addressing this issue in Uganda. Therefore, to inform effective regulation of the profession, we analysed the misconduct cases involving nurses and midwives reported to the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council between 2017 and 2021. Methods The study retrospectively described misconduct cases received and handled at UNMC from 2017 to 2021 and their outcomes. Following total population sampling, data were extracted from case files and then input into a structured questionnaire. Analysis was done using Excel and SPSS version 27 to determine means and proportions. Results The analysis of 172 misconduct cases received at the Council from 2017 to 2021 unveiled several key insights. Notably, females comprised 85% of the cases, while non-professionals represented 69%. Among these cases, those at the certificate level constituted 76%. Private for-profit Training Institutions were linked to 39% of the cases. Additionally, 51% of the individuals involved were employed. The Eastern region had the highest contribution, accounting for 32% of the cases. The Council identified 93.6% of the cases, with the highest influx occurring in 2017, where both professionals (those registered by the Council) and non-professionals (those as yet to register with the Council) accounted for 25 and 40 cases, respectively. The types of cases handled encompassed Forgery, Impersonation, Insubordination, Negligence, and Professional incompetence. Forgery emerged as the most prevalent offence among both professionals and non-professionals, constituting 96% and 95% of the cases, respectively. As of April 2023, 39% of the cases had concluded. Resolutions varied and included Attachment, Cautioning, De-registering, Dismissal, denial of registration, and Referral to the police. The most common resolution method was public disclosure in the newspapers, accounting for 37.3% of cases. Conclusion and recommendation The study identified that the highest number of misconduct cases involved non-professionals at the certificate level, with forgery being the most common offense. Most cases were
Section of Nursing & Midwifery Leadership, Management and Regulation
Copyright (c) 2026 Barbara Okiror, Christine Nimwesiga, Patience Muwanguzi, Tom D. Ngabirano, Mercy Muwema Mwanja (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding self-medication among students at a private university in Uganda: A cross-sectional study
Background Self-medication is a significant global public health concern, notably among university students. Self-medication is becoming an important area within healthcare. It allows patients to achieve greater independence in making decisions about the management of minor illnesses, but also poses risks such as misdiagnosis, inappropriate dosages, drug interactions, and polypharmacy. This cross-sectional study investigated the prevalence, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to self-medication among students at a private university in Uganda. Methods The study used a robust cross-sectional design, with stratified and convenience sampling to select 346 participants. Data were collected through online and physical surveys and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results Self-medication was prevalent among 67.3% (95% CI: 62.4 – 72.3%) of the participants. 59% (95% CI: 54.0 – 63.9%) demonstrated a good understanding of self-medication. Students showed positive attitudes, with 4.16 (±0.936) agreeing on the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before self-medicating, and 4.28 (±0.909) believing in the necessity of regulations and controls on the dispensing of medicines. Painkillers were the most commonly self-administered drugs, at 91.9% (95% CI: 88.7 – 95.1%). Conclusion Despite having a good level of knowledge and positive attitudes, students still practice self-medication unsafely. This study provides valuable insights into self-medication among university students in Uganda, highlighting a gap between knowledge, attitudes, and actual practices. While students demonstrate good awareness and a positive attitude toward self-medication, unsafe practices remain prevalent, particularly the misuse of painkillers and reliance on unverified information sources. There is a need for health education in schools about the dangers of self-medication misuse, to mitigate the practice, or to enforce better and safer practices.
Copyright (c) 2026 Simon O. Yiga Ssempogo, James Mary Kateregga, Nassifu Ssemwanga, Ziadah Nankinga, Patience Muwanguzi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Descriptive Qualitative Study of Nursing Students' Perceptions and Behaviors During Student-led Class Sessions in Uganda
Student-led class sessions are a pedagogical approach where students actively engage in the learning process, influencing content, activities, and pace. This method fosters independent learning, communication skills, and teamwork. While some studies have shown the effectiveness of student-led sessions, nursing students often exhibit challenges, such as inattention and negative attitudes, affecting the quality of learning and patient care. Understanding nursing students' perceptions and behaviors in this context is essential for improving nursing education. Methods: This descriptive qualitative study aimed to explore nursing students' perceptions and behaviors during student-led class sessions at Uganda Christian University. Sixteen direct-entry nursing students from years two to four participated in focus group discussions. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. Ethical approval was obtained, and informed consent was obtained from all participants. Results: Five themes emerged: beneficial aspects, non-beneficial aspects, strategies for effective sessions, appropriate behaviors, and inappropriate behaviors. Sub-themes included self-confidence, understanding, cooperation, negative attitudes, increased anxiety, lecturer assistance, setting objectives, and self-awareness. Discussion: Student-led class sessions offer benefits such as enhancing self-confidence and understanding while fostering cooperation. However, challenges such as incomplete information, negative attitudes, and increased anxiety were reported. Strategies for improvement included: the presence of lecturers, clearer objectives, and promoting self-awareness among students. These findings align with existing literature on student-led learning and highlight the need for tailored approaches in nursing education. Conclusion: Nursing students' perceptions significantly influence their engagement in student-led class sessions. Understanding their experiences and addressing challenges can enhance the effectiveness of these sessions in nursing education. Future research should explore lecturers' perspectives
Section of Nursing & Midwifery Education
Copyright (c) 2026 Proscovia Nakaye, Veronica R Nakkonde, Agnes B Nakimuli, Mercy M Mwanja, Grace Nakate (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Structures and Processes of Critical Care Nursing Practice: Insights from Four Ugandan Intensive Care Units
Background: Global epidemiological data on structures, processes, and outcomes of intensive care units (ICUs) are scarce, yet key in understanding the global burden of critical illness across all demographics. Critical care nursing practice in Uganda faces challenges in structure and process, impacting patient outcomes. Despite increasing demand, there is limited documentation and understanding of the structures and processes of critical care nursing practice in Uganda, necessitating a comprehensive exploration. Study objectives 1. To assess the structure and processes of critical care nursing practice in Uganda. 2. To determine the correlation between the structures and processes and the quality of critical care nursing practice in Ugandan intensive care units. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in four Ugandan ICUs. Nurses’ demographics, critical care nurse characteristics, physical and critical care structure, process flow, and perceived quality of nursing practice were collected using modified observation checklists with an interview administered portion. Results: A diverse critical care nursing workforce, with 75% of nurses being female and an average age of 35.89 years. However, there were significant disparities in education levels, with only 10% having post-graduate training. Regarding infrastructure, all ICUs followed an open model, but deficiencies in essential facilities like reception areas and laboratories were noted. Process-wise, while 94.7% acknowledged leadership and administrative factors, challenges included inconsistent adherence to critical care protocols (63.2%) and occasional lack of knowledge in patient management (94.7%). Despite these challenges, 100% of nurses reported family involvement in patient care. These findings accentuate the need for targeted interventions to address structural and process-related disparities, ultimately enhancing the quality of critical care nursing practice in Ugandan ICUs. Recommendations: To enhance critical care nursing practice in Uganda, recommendations include standardizing protocols, improving infrastructure, and providing specialized training. Addressing these issues can lead to improved patient outcomes and quality of care delivery in Ugandan ICUs.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dominic Savio Ogwal, Edrisa Ssemwanga, Patrick Winter, Lameck Ssemogerere, Cliff Asher Aliga (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Puerperal Sepsis Among Postpartum Women at A Regional Referral in Uganda
Background: Puerperal sepsis remains a significant contributor to maternal mortality and morbidity in Uganda despite government efforts to improve prevention and management through the provision of supplies, equipment, and training for healthcare workers. Aim: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of puerperal sepsis and identify associated factors among postpartum women in LRRH, Lira City Method: An institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed to systematically recruit 230 study participants from March 2023 to May 2023. The study included all postpartum mothers in the postnatal ward who were willing to participate, excluding those who were critically ill and could not communicate. Any mother who presented with three or more signs and symptoms was considered to be infected. Data was entered into SPSS version 26 for AND analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with a p-value of <0.05 and a CI of 95%. Results: The prevalence of puerperal sepsis was high (9.1%). Of this, almost all (90.5%) were delivered from the hospital, and the majority (66.7%) were delivered by caesarean section. Conclusion and recommendation: Puerperal sepsis is high in the study area. Place of delivery, antibiotic prophylaxis, mode of delivery, and antenatal care attendance were significant factors. Proper spacing of postnatal beds, administration of antibiotic prophylaxis before invasive procedures, managing risk factors that lead to caesarean section, and promoting antenatal care attendance will help reduce the prevalence of puerperal sepsis.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ocepa Amos, Adur Brenda, Apili Felister, Ayugi Winnifred P, Adoko Denis Diko (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Poor compliance with private nursing and midwifery practice guidelines in urban settings in Uganda
Background: Optimal compliance with private practice guidelines is one of the core components of quality improvement in nursing and midwifery professions. Private nursing and midwifery practice guidelines in Uganda were introduced in 2019. However, little has been documented about compliance with these guidelines, despite playing a crucial role in ensuring safe nursing and midwifery practice and maintenance of professional standards. We assessed the compliance with private nursing and midwifery practice guidelines of Uganda (2019) and explored barriers to optimal compliance with these guidelines in private health facilities licensed by the Uganda Nursing and Midwifery Council (UNMC) in Kampala Metropolitan Area (KMA). Methods: We utilized a parallel convergent mixed-method design to enroll 52 health facilities in the quantitative study, and 11 nurses and midwives in private practice were selected purposively in the qualitative study between March and June, 2023. Quantitative data were collected using an audit checklist to assess the 21 elements of the private nursing and midwifery practice guidelines of 2019. The primary outcome was compliance with private practice guidelines, and a health facility was regarded as compliant if it had 90% of the 21 elements assessed. An interview guide was used to collect qualitative data from nurses and midwives in private practice. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the quantitative findings, and inductive thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. Results: The private health facilities studied had been operational for a median period of 11 (interquartile range (IQR): 4, 22) years. Most of the facilities were maternity centers (82.7%), and about half of the facility managers had the highest academic qualification of a diploma (55.8%). Only 9.6% of the health facilities complied with the private nursing and midwifery practice guidelines. Barriers to compliance with the guidelines included a lack of awareness about guidelines, limited resources, and inadequate engagement with the regulators. Enablers of optimal compliance with the guidelines included simplifying administrative procedures and adequate dissemination of guidelines. Conclusion: There are critical gaps in compliance with private nursing and midwifery practice guidelines in urban settings in Uganda, with low overall compliance driven by lack of awareness, resource constraints, and weak regulatory engagement.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dan Muramuzi, Edson Atwine, Barbara Okiror, Mercy Mwanja Muwema, Christine Nimwesiga, Laban Muteebwa (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Prevalence of Teenage Pregnancy and Associated Factors Among Adolescent Girls in Bobi Subcounty, Northern Uganda.
Background Teenage pregnancy is a global problem and considered a high-risk group, posing serious health and socio-economic problems among teenage girls. In Uganda, 12% of the audited maternal deaths occur among teenagers. Teenage pregnancy is the occurrence of pregnancy between the ages of 13 and 19 years. Key factors contributing to this include the higher likelihood of teenage pregnancy, absence of sex education, lower birth orders, low economic status, rural residence, and exposure to peer pressure. The prevalence and factors associated with teenage pregnancy in health facilities are not well documented. However, access to youth-friendly services is associated with reduced occurrence. Prolonged waiting times and greater distances to service centers pose increased risks. . Aim To assess the prevalence of teenage pregnancy and associated factors among adolescent girls (aged 13-19 years) in Bobi sub-county, northern Uganda. Methodology A Cross-sectional study design. A survey was conducted among 4893 married girls aged 15-19 years using quantitative methods. Quantitative data was collected through the structured questionnaire, which was administered, data was collected and entered in EPI-INFO 2020 software, and was cleaned and analyzed using STATA version 15.0. Binary logistic regression was done to examine the factors independently associated with teenage pregnancy. A multistage sampling technique was used. Results Our study showed that the prevalence of teenage pregnancy in Bobi Sub-County, Omoro District, is high at 27.5%. Significant Factors contributing to the likelihood of teenage pregnancy included those aged 16-17years ( p = 0.009), absence of sex education( p = 0.002), ( p = 0.042) and birth order of four ( p = 0.010), high economic status( p = 0.003), Urban residence ( p = 2), exposure to peer pressure (p = 0.027), access to youth-friendly services( p = 0.038), prolonged waiting times ( p = 0.049) and greater distances to service centers ( p = 0.013). Conclusion Based on the study findings, collaborative efforts are recommended to address the high prevalence of teenage pregnancy in Bobi Sub-County, Omoro District. This involves enhancing age-appropriate sex education with the Ministry of Education, improving access to youth-friendly services through collaboration with the Ministry of Health, and implementing peer support programs with
Copyright (c) 2026 Grace Auma, Margaret Alioru, Geoffrey Kaujju, Mary Grace Nakate (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Perceptions And Experiences of Nurses and Midwives on the Uganda Nurses Midwives Council (UNMC) Online Registration and Licensure System: A Qualitative Study
Purpose: Nurses and midwives are important members of Uganda's health workforce, and their licensure procedure is critical to developing a competent and regulated professional cadre. This qualitative study looked at nurses' and midwives' experiences while using the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council's (UNMC) online registration and licensure system. Methods: Between June and August 2024, we conducted a qualitative cross-sectional study among nurses and midwives at the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC), Mbale, Mbarara, and Hoima Regional Referral Hospitals. Using purposive sampling, data were collected through eight Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), determined by data saturation. A semi-structured FGD guide was employed, and responses were captured using an audio recorder. The data was then analysed using thematic content analysis to generate codes, sub-themes, and overarching themes. Results: The study highlighted two main themes: enablers and barriers of online registration for nurses and midwives. Enablers included time-saving and convenience, cost-effectiveness, user-friendliness, and perceived safety and comfort, with participants appreciating reduced travel, lower costs, and ease of use. Barriers encompassed technical issues, limited computer skills, network problems, exploitation by intermediaries, and frequent physical follow-ups, which hindered the process for some users. Technical challenges, inadequate internet access, and exploitation by intermediaries led to frustrations, particularly for users with limited experience or resources. Conclusion: UNMC’s online registration and licensure system brings several benefits, including convenience, cost savings, and increased safety, particularly for nurses and midwives from remote regions. However, significant challenges still exist. To ensure the effectiveness of the system, we recommend measures to address knowledge gaps, system delays, and financial exploitation of middlemen.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mr. Noble Ajuna, Humphrey Atwijukire, Meble Kasande (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Pilot Study on the Use of Reminder Packaging in Improving Adherence and Blood Pressure Control Among Hypertensive Patients in the Uganda Heart Institute.
Background Hypertension is a major global public health challenge that is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Poor medication adherence means the management of hypertension remains unsatisfactory. Non-intentional forgetfulness accounts for around 49.6% of medication non-adherence. Reminder packaging is a measure that has been experimented with in developed countries and has shown improved medication adherence, although limited data exist on its effectiveness in developing countries with resource constraints. Therefore, piloting its use in improving medication adherence and blood pressure control among hypertensive patients in Uganda Heart Institute to ascertain its effectiveness in developing countries like Uganda is paramount. Objective To pilot the use of reminder packaging in improving adherence and blood pressure control in hypertensive patients on long-term self-administered medications in Uganda Heart Institute, Uganda. Methods This study used a longitudinal quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design with one study group. We purposively enrolled 18 participants (10% of the calculated main sample size) with poorly controlled hypertension receiving antihypertensive medications who had reported forgetfulness as a challenge. Participants were given a 7-day pillbox to organize their antihypertensive medications and followed up for 6 weeks. Data were collected pre-and post-test, including blood pressure and adherence level (Morisky Medication Adherence Scale; MMAS-8). Paired sample t-tests were used to analyze changes between pre- and post-tests. Results The use of reminder packaging improved adherence to self-administered antihypertensive medication with a mean difference of 4.833 on the MMAS-8 (t=11.042, P<0.01). There were statistically significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P<0.01). Conclusion Reminder packaging is a useful tool to aid pill planning and enhance medication adherence among patients with hypertension.
Copyright (c) 2026 Grace Among, Dr. Mary Grace Nakate (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Diabetes-Related Nutritional Beliefs and Behaviours Among Patients at Kitagata Hospital, Sheema District. A Qualitative Phenomenological Study
Type 2 diabetes prevalence in Uganda is increasing due to lifestyle changes, particularly in rural areas. Beliefs and behaviors play an important role in diabetic nutrition and treatment outcomes among diabetic patients. We conducted a study investigating related diabetic nutritional beliefs and practices in the remote areas of Sheema, southwest Uganda. A descriptive phenomenological study at Kitagata Hospital involved 18 participants from diabetic clinics or medical- surgical wards who had been enrolled for longer than a year and underwent extensive interviews for thematic analysis. The responses revealed two main themes: 1) knowledge and awareness regarding diabetic nutrition demonstrated the necessity of diabetes education, its potential advantages and limitations, and the variety of resources available. 2)The socio-cultural background and dietary practices encompassed maintaining consistent daily routines, adhering to a balanced diet, accessing recommended diets, copying, and changing lifestyle patterns. The effectiveness was perceived as having positive health implications, although certain participants encountered difficulties. The study highlighted the need for better information on diabetic nutrition and lifestyle patterns, as well as increased awareness among individuals, families, and communities. Also, emphasized the need for government support, such as food and treatment aid, to enhance diabetic nutrition practices and improve diabetes management.
Copyright (c) 2026 Aloysious Kamukama, Mackleane Asiimwe, David Friday Apuulison (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0