Factors Influencing the Acceptability of ISONIAZID Preventative Therapy among Healthcare Workers at Kabwata Health Centre

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) is classified as an occupational illness, and health care workers (HCWs) are among the most vulnerable populations to contracting the disease due to its transmission mechanism in a healthcare setting. The health facility serving as a source of infection for HCWs produces a deadly TB infection cycle that spreads throughout the community. Isoniazid (INH) preventive therapy (IPT) is recognized as an important component of TB infection control activities. INH therapy of latent TB infection has been shown to reduce the incidence of active TB by >60%, where adherence could be guaranteed. Isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) among HCWs has not been fully utilised hence very little research has been conducted around it. Therefore, this study helped explore information on the Factors Influencing the Acceptability of Isoniazid Preventive Therapy among Healthcare Workers at Kabwata Health Centre so as to improve IPT uptake. The study was guided by the use of a cross sectional study approach. A descriptive and study was used. Primary data was collected through actual field research using questionnaires that were distributed to the respondents. Data was coded manually into themes through the use of content analysis. The study comprised 30 participants, which include Clinical Officers, Nurses and treatment supporters from chest clinic at Kabwata Health Centre. All the 30 respondents that were interviewed had knowledge about IPT and that it did not influence acceptability. 90% of the HCWs interviewed reported that IPT duration influenced their acceptability of the treatment pointing out that the treatment duration was too long to endure through. Furthermore, reported side effects negatively influence acceptability such as fear of organ damage secondary to INZ administration. Isoniazid preventive therapy is effective and reduces the occurrence of tuberculosis infection in HIV-infected individuals significantly. However, its use in the prevention of tuberculosis among HCWs in this health facility is extremely poor. An adequate supply of isoniazid, as well as increased awareness among health care providers who are occupationally exposed to tuberculosis, will improve IPT uptake. As well as creating awareness and policies supporting IPT administration to the first line health workers. Effective and on-going adherence counselling for eligible clients, will aid in lowering the rate of IPT defaulters.