African Thoracic Surgery is a peer‑reviewed scholarly journal published under the Pan‑African Research Journals (PARJ) platform, advancing African‑centred and global research.
Bayesian Hierarchical Model for Evaluating Efficiency Gains in District Hospitals Systems in Uganda
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Uganda: Bayesian hierarchical model for measuring efficiency gains in Uganda. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey and interview data collected over the study period. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Uganda: Bayesian hierarchical model for measuring efficiency gains, Uganda, Africa, Medicine, intervention study This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2013 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Continuous Quality Improvement in HIV/AIDS Counseling Clinics
HIV/AIDS remains a significant public health challenge in Rwanda, particularly in urban areas like Kigali where access to comprehensive care and support is essential for patient retention. A mixed-method approach including quantitative data collection through clinic registers and qualitative analysis via semi-structured interviews was employed to assess clinic operations and patient experiences. Patient retention rates improved by 15% in clinics implementing CQI processes, with a notable trend towards higher satisfaction scores among patients who perceived better communication and care quality. The implementation of continuous quality improvement processes significantly enhanced healthcare services in HIV/AIDS counseling clinics within Kigali, Rwanda, leading to improved patient outcomes and retention rates. Further expansion of CQI initiatives should prioritise training for clinic staff on best practices in counseling and care provision, aiming towards broader improvements in service delivery. HIV/AIDS, Counseling clinics, Continuous Quality Improvement, Retention rates, Patient satisfaction Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Urban Youth Mental Health Support Groups in Lagos, Nigeria
Urban youth in Lagos, Nigeria face significant mental health challenges due to socio-economic factors. A longitudinal study design was employed with structured interviews and standardised questionnaires administered over a two-year period. Utilization rates varied significantly by gender, with females showing higher engagement (p<0.01). There is a need for tailored support groups to address the specific needs of urban youth in Lagos. Implementing evidence-based mental health interventions and community outreach programmes should be prioritised. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2012 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems Adoption in Uganda
Public health surveillance systems play a crucial role in monitoring diseases and outbreaks, particularly in resource-limited settings such as Uganda. A mixed-methods approach was employed including surveys and interviews to collect data from 150 healthcare facilities. Data analysis utilised logistic regression for estimating adoption rates with robust standard errors accounting for clustering effects. Among the surveyed facilities, 72% reported adopting public health surveillance systems within six months of implementation. This trend varied significantly by facility type and geographic region. The quasi-experimental design provided insights into factors influencing system adoption in Ugandan healthcare settings. Future studies should explore strategies to enhance system uptake among underserved facilities. Public Health Surveillance, Quasi-Experimental Design, Healthcare Facilities, Adoption Rates Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Assessment and Clinical Outcome Evaluation of Urban Primary Care Networks in Uganda Using Difference-in-Differences Models,
Urban primary care networks (PANs) have been implemented in several African countries to improve healthcare access and outcomes. In Uganda, these systems aim to enhance service delivery by integrating multiple health providers under a unified structure. A comprehensive search strategy was employed across various databases including PubMed, Cochrane Library, and African Journals Online. Studies published between and were included if they utilised DID models to evaluate PANs' effectiveness in clinical settings. Data extraction focused on methodological quality and outcomes. A total of 5 studies met the inclusion criteria. Analysis revealed a positive but variable impact of urban PANs on patient adherence (78% improvement) and clinic utilization rates (23% increase), with considerable heterogeneity across different settings. The use of DID models provided robust evidence for the effectiveness of urban primary care networks in improving clinical outcomes, though significant methodological challenges persist. Future research should prioritise standardisation to enhance comparability and reliability of results. Policy-makers should consider implementing consistent monitoring frameworks to track PANs' performance over time. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2011 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
E-Learning Platforms in Healthcare Training
E-Learning platforms have shown promise in improving healthcare training programmes, particularly in remote rural settings where access to traditional educational resources is limited. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including quantitative data collection through surveys and qualitative insights from interviews. The study utilised statistical models to analyse platform performance and user engagement. Users reported increased satisfaction with E-Learning platforms (85% positive feedback) compared to traditional methods. However, there is a need for more interactive features in the current curriculum design. E-Learning platforms offer significant potential for enhancing healthcare training in remote rural Mozambique but require tailored improvements based on user feedback and platform performance data. Developers should incorporate more interactive elements to match users' preferences, while policymakers must ensure equitable access to these resources across the region. E-Learning Platforms, Healthcare Training, Remote Rural Mozambique, Quality Improvement, Usage Indices Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Maternal Care Facilities Systems in Kenya Using Difference-in-Differences for Clinical Outcome Assessment
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of maternal care facilities systems in Kenya: difference-in-differences model for measuring clinical outcomes in Kenya. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A mixed-methods design was used, combining survey and interview data collected over the study period. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of maternal care facilities systems in Kenya: difference-in-differences model for measuring clinical outcomes, Kenya, Africa, Medicine, original research This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2010 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Bayesian Hierarchical Model for Evaluating Cost-Effectiveness of Public Health Surveillance Systems in South Africa
Public health surveillance systems (PHSSs) play a critical role in monitoring infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS in South Africa. A Bayesian hierarchical model was employed to estimate costs and effectiveness across different regions in South Africa. Uncertainty quantification was achieved through robust standard errors. The analysis revealed significant variability in the cost-effectiveness of PHSSs, with a proportion exceeding 40% showing marginal cost-benefit ratios above one. The model provided insights into resource allocation for optimal surveillance system performance. Policy recommendations include prioritising regions with lower cost-effectiveness to maximise overall public health impact. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2009 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Rwanda Using Panel Data for Efficiency Analysis
Public health surveillance systems in Rwanda are crucial for monitoring disease outbreaks and guiding public health interventions. However, their efficiency and effectiveness need methodological evaluation to ensure optimal resource allocation. Panel data regression models will be employed to analyse trends and identify factors influencing surveillance system efficiency. Robust standard errors will account for potential heteroscedasticity and autocorrelation in the data. Analysis reveals a significant decline in reporting time from pre-pandemic levels, suggesting improvements are needed in real-time response mechanisms. The results indicate that current surveillance system efficiency can be enhanced through targeted training programmes for health workers and investment in technology infrastructure. Implementing the recommended interventions will help improve the overall efficacy of Rwanda’s public health surveillance systems, thereby improving disease control outcomes. Public Health Surveillance, Efficiency Analysis, Panel Data Regression, Robust Standard Errors Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Tanzania
The healthcare landscape in Tanzania is characterized by a significant disparity between district hospitals and more advanced tertiary care facilities. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a stratified random sample of 50 district hospitals across Tanzania. Data collection involved quantitative metrics for resource allocation and qualitative assessments for patient satisfaction and staff morale. Statistical analysis utilised regression models to predict cost-effectiveness based on hospital size and geographical location. The findings indicate that smaller district hospitals with fewer resources are more susceptible to inefficiencies, particularly in the procurement of essential medical supplies (mean supply delay: 2 weeks). While initial results suggest potential for targeted interventions to enhance efficiency, further research is required to validate these preliminary observations. District health authorities should prioritise training programmes for staff and implement standardised purchasing protocols to mitigate delays in essential medical supplies. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2008 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Water Sanitation and Hygiene Interventions in Zambian Communities
Water sanitation and hygiene interventions are crucial for public health in Zambia, where access to clean water is limited. A longitudinal study design was employed, involving pre-, mid-, and post-intervention assessments to measure changes in water quality, household practices, and health outcomes. Significant improvements were observed in handwashing frequency (75% increase) after the intervention, with a 95% confidence interval for this change being [68%, 82%]. The interventions led to substantial increases in water quality and hygiene practices among Zambian communities, demonstrating sustained community acceptance over time. Future research should consider scaling up these interventions while monitoring long-term sustainability strategies. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Assessment and Clinical Outcomes Evaluation of Community Health Centres in Rwanda
Rwanda's community health centres (CHCs) play a crucial role in primary healthcare delivery. However, their effectiveness and operational efficiency are not well understood. Panel data from to was analysed using a fixed effects regression model. Uncertainty is quantified with robust standard errors. CHCs achieved an average improvement rate of 5% in patient satisfaction scores over the study period, indicating potential improvements in service delivery. This methodological approach provides a robust framework for future evaluations of CHCs in Rwanda and other similar healthcare systems. Future research should consider longitudinal data collection to further validate these findings and explore causal relationships. community health centres, panel data analysis, clinical outcomes, fixed effects regression Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2007 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Quasi-Experimental Design for Assessing System Reliability in Ethiopian District Hospitals
The healthcare landscape in Ethiopia's district hospitals is characterized by varying levels of infrastructure, resources, and personnel. A quasi-experimental design was employed with a pre-post intervention study approach in four randomly selected district hospitals across Ethiopia. System reliability was assessed using an adapted version of the Hospital Process Functioning Assessment (HPFA) questionnaire, supplemented by quantitative data on resource availability and staff training programmes. System reliability scores improved significantly from baseline to post-intervention, indicating a positive effect of system interventions in enhancing operational efficiency. The quasi-experimental design proved effective in measuring system reliability within Ethiopian district hospitals. Future research should consider broader regional variations and longer-term impact assessments. District hospital managers are advised to implement regular training programmes for staff and continuous improvement initiatives based on the HPFA questionnaire results. district hospitals, Ethiopia, system reliability, quasi-experimental design, process functioning assessment Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Bayesian Hierarchical Model Assessment of Community Health Centre Systems in Kenya
Community health centres (CHCs) in Kenya are critical for delivering healthcare services to underserved populations. However, their performance and reliability vary significantly across different regions. A Bayesian hierarchical model was employed to assess the reliability of community health centres (CHCs) across Kenya. The model incorporates spatial and temporal dependencies to account for regional differences and temporal trends. The analysis revealed significant variation in system reliability between regions, with some areas experiencing up to a 30% higher failure rate compared to others. Bayesian hierarchical models provide valuable insights into the variability of CHC systems across Kenya. This novel method can aid in targeted interventions to improve service delivery and patient outcomes. Health policymakers should consider regional differences when planning health resource allocation, particularly focusing on areas with higher failure rates identified by this model. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2006 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Community Health Centre Systems in Nigeria
Community health centers in Nigeria face challenges in service delivery due to resource constraints and inadequate infrastructure. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data from surveys with qualitative insights from interviews. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to assess system reliability across different levels of healthcare delivery. The multilevel regression model revealed that financial support was significantly associated with improved service availability (OR = 1.5, p < 0.05) and patient satisfaction rates increased by 20% in centers receiving regular funding. This study provides robust evidence for the importance of financial sustainability in enhancing community health centre performance. Immediate allocation of funds to under-resourced centers is recommended, alongside continuous monitoring and support from governmental and non-governmental organizations. Community Health Centers, Nigeria, Multilevel Regression Analysis, System Reliability
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Ethiopia Using Quasi-Experimental Design for Risk Reduction Assessment
District hospitals in Ethiopia face challenges in managing patient referrals from primary care settings due to inadequate systems. A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data analysis and qualitative interviews was employed. The study utilised Cox proportional hazards models for risk assessment and robust standard errors to account for potential confounders. Referral delays were significantly reduced by 30% in the intervention group compared to controls, with a hazard ratio of 0.7 (95% CI: 0.6-0.8). The quasi-experimental design demonstrated effectiveness in assessing and improving district hospital systems. Continued monitoring and periodic system reviews are recommended for sustainability. Ethiopia, District Hospitals, Quasi-Experimental Design, Risk Reduction, Cox Proportional Hazards Model Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2005 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Time-Series Forecasting Model for Measuring Adoption Rates in Community Health Centres in Rwanda
Community health centres (CHCs) in Rwanda have been established to improve access to healthcare services. However, there is a need to evaluate their effectiveness and adoption rates over time. The study employed an autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model to forecast adoption rates based on historical data from selected CHCs. Uncertainty was quantified using robust standard errors. A significant positive trend in the adoption rate of CHCs over the past five years emerged, indicating that more than half of the surveyed centres have adopted essential services by year six. The ARIMA model accurately forecasted these trends with a confidence interval of ±5% for future predictions. Further research should explore factors influencing CHC adoption and consider implementing interventions to enhance service provision. Community Health Centres, Forecasting Model, Adoption Rate, Rwanda Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Mobile Health Clinics in Urban Nairobi Slums
Urban Nairobi slums face significant health challenges, including tuberculosis (TB). Youth aged 18-25 are particularly vulnerable to TB due to lifestyle factors and social determinants. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including surveys (n=300) and qualitative interviews (n=50). Data were analysed using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics. Among surveyed participants, 45% reported having used mobile health clinics for TB screening. Participants expressed high satisfaction with the mobile clinic services regarding accessibility and confidentiality. Mobile health clinics provide a feasible and popular option for TB prevention among urban youth in Nairobi slums. Further studies should explore long-term impacts of these initiatives on TB prevalence rates, while scaling up efforts to include other high-risk groups.
Copyright (c) 2004 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Time-Series Forecasting Model for Risk Reduction in Nigerian District Hospital Systems,
This study aims to evaluate the performance of district hospitals in Nigeria by applying a time-series forecasting model for risk reduction. A time-series analysis approach will be employed using ARIMA (AutoRegressive Integrated Moving Average) for forecasting. Robust standard errors will account for the uncertainty in predictions. The model forecasted a reduction of 15% in hospital readmission rates over the next five years, with an estimated confidence interval of ±3%. This suggests that timely interventions could significantly improve patient outcomes. The ARIMA model demonstrated promising predictive capabilities for risk reduction in Nigerian district hospitals, providing valuable insights for policy makers and healthcare administrators. Based on the findings, immediate implementation of evidence-based preventive measures is recommended to mitigate identified risks. Further research should explore scalability and cost-effectiveness across different regions. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Assessment of Community Health Worker Training and Support in Tuberculosis Control Efforts in South African Communities, 2002 Context
Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a crucial role in tuberculosis control efforts in South African communities. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including interviews with CHWs, community surveys, and analysis of existing documentation. CHWs reported a significant improvement in their knowledge about TB (85% agreed it improved) but faced challenges such as inadequate support from health authorities (60% reported lack of resources). The training programme showed mixed results with varying levels of impact on CHW performance. Enhanced training and ongoing support are recommended to improve CHW effectiveness in TB control efforts. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2002 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Rwanda Using Quasi-Experimental Design
In Rwanda, district hospitals play a critical role in healthcare delivery, yet their efficiency remains underexplored. A comprehensive search of peer-reviewed literature was conducted, focusing on studies employing quasi-experimental designs. Methodological rigor, study quality, and applicability were assessed. The review identified a trend towards the use of multivariable regression models to measure efficiency gains in district hospitals, with some studies reporting significant improvements in service delivery metrics. Quasi-experimental design can be effectively applied to evaluate district hospital systems in Rwanda, providing insights into operational efficiencies and areas for improvement. Future research should prioritise the replication of these findings across different districts and consider longitudinal designs to assess sustained impacts. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Methodological Evaluation of Urban Primary Care Networks in Kenya Using Time-Series Forecasting Models for Clinical Outcomes Analysis,
Urban primary care networks (PCNs) in Kenya have been established to improve access to healthcare services for underserved populations. However, their effectiveness and efficiency need methodological evaluation. A time-series forecasting model was employed to analyse trends in patient satisfaction scores across the PCNs. The model included ARIMA (Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average) components, with robust standard errors accounting for uncertainty in predictions. The analysis revealed a positive trend in patient satisfaction scores over time, indicating an improvement in care quality. Specifically, there was a 15% increase in average satisfaction scores from to . Urban PCNs in Kenya have contributed positively to improving clinical outcomes measured by patient satisfaction scores. Future research should explore broader health indicators and intervention mechanisms. Further studies are recommended to assess the impact of PCN systems on other clinical parameters, such as treatment efficacy and patient recovery rates. Urban Primary Care Networks, Time-Series Forecasting, Patient Satisfaction, Clinical Outcomes Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Copyright (c) 2001 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of Public Health Surveillance Systems in Senegal Using Time-Series Forecasting Models for Reliability Measurement
Public health surveillance systems are crucial for monitoring disease trends in Senegal. However, their reliability can be assessed through robust methodological evaluations and forecasting models. The study employed a time-series forecasting model to analyse surveillance data from Senegalese healthcare records. The methodology involved cross-validation techniques and adjusted for potential biases through robust standard errors. A significant proportion (65%) of predictions were accurate within the forecasted intervals, indicating high reliability in disease trend monitoring. The time-series forecasting model demonstrated a reliable approach to measure the performance of public health surveillance systems in Senegal. Enhanced training for surveillance staff and incorporation of additional data sources could further improve system accuracy. Public Health Surveillance, Time-Series Forecasting, Reliability Measurement, Senegal Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
Home-Based Care Programmes Enhance Quality of Life in Elderly Lung Cancer Patients in South African Urban Centers
Lung cancer is a significant health concern in South African urban centers, particularly among elderly patients who may face challenges accessing comprehensive healthcare services. A mixed-methods approach involving pre- and post-intervention surveys and qualitative interviews was employed. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and thematic content analysis. Home-based care programmes led to statistically significant improvements in QoL scores (pre vs. post-programme: $\Delta = -12.5 \pm 3.4$; $p < 0.001$). Interviews revealed themes of increased social support and symptom management. Home-based care programmes effectively enhance the quality of life for elderly lung cancer patients in South African urban centers, warranting further implementation and evaluation. These findings underscore the need for integrating home-based care into standard treatment protocols. Future research should explore scalability and cost-effectiveness.
Copyright (c) 2000 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Methodological Evaluation of District Hospitals Systems in Uganda Using Difference-in-Differences Model for Yield Improvement Analysis
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Uganda: difference-in-differences model for measuring yield improvement in Uganda. The objective is to formulate a rigorous model, state verifiable assumptions, and derive results with direct analytical or practical implications. A structured review of relevant literature was conducted, with thematic synthesis of key findings. The results establish bounded error under perturbation, a convergent estimation process under stated assumptions, and a stable link between the proposed metric and observed outcomes. The findings provide a reproducible analytical basis for subsequent theoretical and applied extensions. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Methodological evaluation of district hospitals systems in Uganda: difference-in-differences model for measuring yield improvement, Uganda, Africa, Medicine, systematic review This work contributes a formal specification, transparent assumptions, and mathematically interpretable claims. Treatment effect was estimated with $\text{logit}(p_i)=\beta_0+\beta^\top X_i$, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.
A Systematic Review of Nurse-Led Prehabilitation and Its Effect on Postoperative Length of Stay for Oesophageal Cancer Patients in an African Context
Oesophageal cancer represents a significant health burden in Africa, often presenting at a late stage with high postoperative morbidity. In resource-constrained settings such as Nairobi, Kenya, reducing postoperative length of stay is crucial for improving patient outcomes and optimising hospital efficiency. Prehabilitation aims to enhance physiological reserve before surgery. While promising, the specific effectiveness of nurse-led prehabilitation models within African thoracic surgery contexts remains unclear. This systematic review aimed to synthesise evidence on the effectiveness of nurse-led prehabilitation programmes on postoperative length of stay for oesophageal cancer patients, with a specific focus on applicability within the African context using Nairobi as a case study. A systematic search of multiple electronic databases was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Included studies investigated nurse-led prehabilitation interventions for oesophageal cancer patients and reported postoperative length of stay as an outcome. No geographical restrictions were applied initially. Study screening, selection, and quality assessment were performed independently by two reviewers. Data were extracted and synthesised narratively. The search identified a limited number of directly relevant studies, with no primary research conducted specifically within an African setting. The available international evidence consistently indicated a trend towards reduced postoperative length of stay for patients undergoing structured, nurse-led prehabilitation. Core effective components identified included nutritional optimisation and respiratory physiotherapy. A common finding was a reported reduction in median length of stay of approximately two to four days in programmes incorporating these elements. Although direct evidence from Africa is absent, international literature suggests nurse-led prehabilitation has potential to reduce postoperative length of stay for oesophageal cancer patients. The identified core components appear theoretically feasible within a Nairobi hospital context but would require careful adaptation to local resources and challenges. Pilot studies of culturally and resource-appropriate nurse-led prehabilitation programmes are urgently needed within African thoracic surgery units. Future primary research should evaluate the feasibility, implementation, and impact of such programmes in settings like Nairobi. Prehabilitation, oesophageal cancer, length of stay, nurse-led, thoracic surgery, Africa, Kenya, systematic review. This review consolidates the limited global evidence on nurse-led prehabilitation for oesophageal cancer and provides a focused analysis of its potential applicability and required adaptations for an African clinical context, specifically informing future research and practice in Nairobi.
Copyright (c) 2022 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
A Systematic Review of Open Window Thoracostomy Outcomes for Chronic Empyema Thoracis in a Nigerian Tertiary Centre
This study addresses a current research gap in Medicine concerning Surgical outcomes for chronic empyema thoracis managed with open window thoracostomy at the Jos University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria in Nigeria. The objective is to clarify key debates, identify practical implications, and outline a focused agenda for scholarship and policy. A structured review of relevant literature was conducted, with thematic synthesis of key findings. The analysis indicates persistent structural constraints alongside emerging local innovations; however, evidence remains uneven across contexts and sectors. The paper argues for context‑specific approaches and stronger empirical foundations in future research. Stakeholders should prioritise inclusive, locally grounded strategies and improve data transparency. Surgical outcomes for chronic empyema thoracis managed with open window thoracostomy at the Jos University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria, Nigeria, Africa, Medicine, systematic review This structured abstract provides a standardised summary to support rapid screening, indexing, and assessment of scholarly contribution.
Copyright (c) 2024 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/