Abstract

The prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV/AIDS is a critical component of maternal and child healthcare, with nurses and midwives playing a central role in implementing preventive practices. This study assesses the attitudes, practices, and challenges faced by nurses and midwives in PMTCT at the Buea Regional Hospital. The findings will help identify gaps in knowledge and areas needing support to improve PMTCT services.

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted involving 100 nurses and midwives actively involved in PMTCT programs at the Buea Regional Hospital. Data were collected through structured questionnaires assessing participants’ attitudes toward PMTCT, adherence to PMTCT protocols, and challenges encountered. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, and chi-square tests were applied to determine associations between demographic factors and attitudes toward PMTCT.

Results indicated that 80% of the respondents displayed a positive attitude toward PMTCT, recognizing its importance in preventing HIV transmission and enhancing maternal and child health outcomes. However, only 60% adhered consistently to all PMTCT protocols, citing challenges such as limited access to resources (50%), insufficient training on updated PMTCT guidelines (45%), and high patient loads (40%). Notably, younger nurses reported more difficulty in managing PMTCT procedures compared to their more experienced counterparts.

Challenges highlighted by participants included a lack of regular training and updates on evolving PMTCT guidelines, shortages of essential supplies like antiretroviral medications, and time constraints due to high patient-to-staff ratios. Furthermore, 30% of nurses and midwives reported facing stigma and discomfort among patients when discussing HIV-related topics, affecting patient engagement in PMTCT programs.

The findings underscore the need for enhanced support and training for healthcare workers involved in PMTCT services. Addressing these challenges will require the provision of regular, structured training sessions to keep healthcare providers updated on PMTCT protocols, an increase in essential medical supplies, and a focus on reducing patient load through staffing support. Additionally, stigma reduction initiatives could improve patient willingness to participate in PMTCT programs. Strengthening these areas could lead to improved PMTCT practices, ultimately reducing the transmission rate of HIV from mothers to children at the Buea Regional Hospital.

Keywords: PMTCT, HIV/AIDS prevention, nurses and midwives, maternal health, Buea Regional Hospital, healthcare challenges, HIV transmission.