Factors affecting utilization of integrated management of acute malnutrition services for children under five years in Embakasi Nairobi, Kenya
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Date
2018-06
Authors
Mbochi, Jessica
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Kenyatta University
Abstract
Malnutrition, also defined as bad nutrition, is a serious public-health problem that
has been linked to a substantial increase in the risk of mortality and morbidity
among the affected populations. A large proportion of malnourished children are not
enrolled in the treatment program as expected. The objective was to examine the
factors that determine use of the Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition
services for children less than five years by caregivers within Embakasi Sub County-
Nairobi, Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used in the study. A
total of 332 respondents were selected for the study. Purposive sampling was used in
the identification of the participants. Quantitative data was collected using structured
questionnaires while Secondary data was obtained from the monthly data in facilities
implementing the program. The program performance indicators were compared
with the sphere standards for management of acute malnutrition. The data was
manually checked for clarity and completeness, then coded, entered and transported
to Social Package of Social Statistics software version 21. The findings were
presented in form of frequency and percentages in figures, tables and mean to
describe the study sample in relation to relevant variables. The package was used to
summarize the key findings and interpret the information in order to arrive at the
conclusions of the research. Approval to conduct the research was sought from
Kenyatta University Ethical Review Committee, Graduate School and National
Council of Science and Technology. The study was limited by how well the
participants in the study represent the population. Also, the study findings were
limited by the honesty of the participants/ their nonbiased participation. In
conclusion, the study established that majority of the respondents did not know
where malnutrition treatment services were offered. Findings indicated that 41.3%
had been utilizing integrated management of acute malnutrition services which was
slightly higher than the proportion of the population knowledgeable on the
availability of services which was 38.3%. About two thirds (75.6%) of the study
participants were however aware of malnutrition. Morbidity, health seeking
behavior, the level of education and knowledge on causes of malnutrition had a
significant effect on the utilization of integrated management of acute malnutrition
services. The study recommends the creation of awareness on the treatment of
malnutrition and the availability of the services in the area so that the knowledge can
be linked to practice. Proper referral networks need to be created to prevent further
deterioration from malnutrition.
Description
A research thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the degree of master of public health in the school of public health, Kenyatta University. June, 2018