Exploring community nurses` experiences on the decentralization of non-communicable diseases care in the Lubombo region, Eswatini

Abstract

Background and Aim: Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) remain a global challenge. The primary healthcare has been identified as a vital aspect of the healthcare system that will assist in addressing the burden of NCDs in low and middle-income countries. As such, the Eswatini Ministry of Health-NCD program had embarked on the decentralization of NCDs` services to primary healthcare facilities. This initiative called for nurses to deliver NCD treatment services in primary healthcare facilities. However, the experiences of community nurses about this initiative have not been explored. Therefore, this study explored and described the community nurses` experiences with decentralizing care for NCDs in the Lubombo Region of Eswatini.

Methods and Materials: A descriptive qualitative study design approach was used to explore and describe the experiences of ten purposively sampled community nurses. Data was collected through audio-recorded face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured interview guide. Data was subjected to thematic analysis using Colaizzi’s descriptive method of data analysis.

Results:  Three themes emerged from the study findings; 1) Decentralising NCD care is a good move by the Government, 2) Challenges brought by the decentralization of NCD services, and 3) Nurses’ perceived support needs in managing NCDs at clinics.

Conclusion: Community nurses applauded the government`s move to decentralized NCD services even though they viewed rural clinics as not well prepared to offer NCD services due to the challenges faced. There is a need for more support for rural clinics regarding human resources