Registered Nurses’ Perspectives on Barriers and Enablers of Incorporating Ubuntu Principles in the Management of Childhood Illness in the Mahikeng Sub-District, North West Province

Felicia Omphemetse Meno; Fhumulani Mavis Mulaudzi; Nombulelo Veronica Sepeng

doi:10.25159/2520-5293/20541

Authors

Felicia Omphemetse Meno University of Pretoria https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3163-3217
Fhumulani Mavis Mulaudzi University of Pretoria
Nombulelo Veronica Sepeng University of Pretoria

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25159/2520-5293/20541

Keywords:

caregivers, IMCI, registered nurses, Ubuntu

Abstract

Introduction: There are several obstacles to applying Ubuntu principles in the treatment of childhood illness, including a lack of understanding of the concept, cultural disparities, and limitations of the healthcare system. Promoting respect for children's rights, family involvement, and integrating Ubuntu into Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) by registered nurses can improve patient care and potentially increase treatment adherence and outcomes. Therefore, including Ubuntu in IMCI is crucial to a successful, culturally aware approach to paediatric healthcare.

Methods: The study employed an exploratory descriptive approach. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data collection was done through focus group interviews. A study was conducted in specific primary health care facilities, such as community health centres and clinics, located in the Mafikeng sub-district of the North West Province. The collected data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: The study revealed two themes and their sub-themes: registered nurses' views on barriers to incorporating Ubuntu principles into IMCI and registered nurses' views on facilitators of Ubuntu principles

Conclusion: Registered nurses recognise a significant opportunity to improve holistic care by incorporating Ubuntu principles, which emphasise compassion, connectivity, and community solidarity in the management of childhood illness. In the end, nurses can be empowered to provide care that not only heals disease but also fosters the child's well-being within the larger human and communal context by strengthening these enablers and removing impediments.

Contribution: The study will contribute to more knowledge on incorporating Ubuntu principles into IMCI

Author Biography

Felicia Omphemetse Meno, University of Pretoria

Department of Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Science.

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