African Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Medical) | 04 September 2008
Early Warning System Implementation in Nigerian Primary Healthcare Facilities for Tuberculosis Prevention, 2008
S, a, m, u, e, l, E, m, e, a, g, w, a, l, i
Abstract
Nigeria has a high incidence of tuberculosis (TB), particularly among children and adolescents. Primary healthcare facilities are pivotal in TB prevention but often lack effective early warning systems. The study utilised a mixed-methods approach involving surveys, interviews, and observational studies among healthcare workers at 20 randomly selected primary health centers across Nigeria. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Among the surveyed facilities (\(n=20)\), 85% reported reduced TB case misdiagnosis post-EWS implementation, with a significant decrease in median time from symptom onset to diagnosis (p<0.01). The EWS significantly improved diagnostic accuracy and shortened diagnostic times, demonstrating its effectiveness in early TB detection within Nigerian primary healthcare environments. Primary health centers should prioritise the implementation of structured EWS protocols for TB prevention, supported by ongoing training and resources.