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Developing nursing practice as part of the collaborative TB control programme, Tomsk, Siberia
V G Gleissberg1, Z D Maksimova, V T Golubchikova
1Medical Emergency Relief International, London, UK. ginig@ibm.net
Summary
Nurses in Russia were trained on the WHO DOTS strategy to improve tuberculosis control. This training enhanced patient education and compliance, leading to successful treatment completion and reduced patient loss.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Nursing Practice
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- The Tomsk Oblast' Tuberculosis Services (TOTBS) in Russia required preparation for a World Health Organization (WHO)-style TB control program.
- Nursing roles and training needs within the TOTBS were assessed to align with international TB control standards.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare TOTBS nurses for the implementation of a WHO-style TB control program.
- To identify and address nursing practice gaps and training needs within the TOTBS.
Main Methods:
- Nursing services and training needs were evaluated through site visits, interviews, and staff discussions.
- Training focused on the WHO Directly Observed Treatment, Short-course (DOTS) strategy, patient education, and defaulter tracing.
- Nurse attitudes and treatment completion rates were assessed post-training.
Main Results:
- 53 out of 165 TB cases initiated DOTS on an ambulatory basis.
- Improved patient compliance and successful treatment completion were observed.
- No patients were lost to follow-up, with defaulting patients returning to treatment promptly.
Conclusions:
- Key obstacles included resistance to change, low morale, heavy workloads, and staff shortages.
- Motivation and practice improvements were achieved by setting attainable targets for nurses.
- Enhanced nursing education and reliable medication supply contributed to better TB treatment outcomes.