RESPONSE TO THE COVID-19 OUTBREAK: LESSONS FROM A TERTIARY HEALTHCARE FACILITY IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIA

• Published in: Annals of Ibadan postgraduate medicine Vol. 21; no. 3; pp. 57 - 68
• Main Authors: Osungbade, K, Ilesanmi, O, Oladokun, R, Adekanmbi, O, Eze, U, Afolabi, A, Adetunji, A, Kuti, K, Ojifinni, K, Olopha, O, Dada-Adegbola, H, Fowotade, A, Adebiyi, A, Oladipo, T, Akinmoladun, V, Otegbayo, J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Nigeria Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), University College Hospital, Ibadan 01.12.2023
• Subjects: Original Research; COVID-19; Outbreak control; Outbreak; Infection prevention and control; Nigeria
• ISSN: 1597-1627

Mitigating the risk of nosocomial infection is one of the core functions of healthcare managers in hospital environments. This study aimed to describe the COVID-19 outbreak response in a tertiary healthcare facility in Nigeria. A qualitative cross-sectional study was conducted among representatives of Heads of Infection Control Committees and units, the Accident and Emergency unit, Family Medicine unit, and Private Suites on the COVID-19 outbreak response at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. Data were analyzed using Colaizzi's phenomenological method. Overall, seven (six physicians and one nurse) HCWs were interviewed; six (71.4%) males and two (28.6%) females. The average age of the key informants was 45 ± 4.73 years. Four themes were identified. Theme one "Essentials of screening protocol and screening area" described the development of screening protocol, and dedication of a triage area. Theme two "Infection prevention and control within consultation premises" detailed adequate spacing; hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment; environmental sanitation; and waste management. Theme three "Mounting up surveillance in the response activity" specified communication with the Disease Surveillance Unit; and surveillance activities. Theme four "Training and psychosocial support for staff " described staff training, and provision of psychosocial care to infected staff. The COVID-19 outbreak measures implemented by the management of the University College Hospital, Ibadan were aimed at ensuring that the hospital does not get overwhelmed by the surge in COVID-19 cases. In order to improve outbreak response in hospital settings, it is important to undertake training, modify hospital practices, and evaluate implemented measures.