Translation of novel antiemetic to sub-Saharan Africa using diffusion of innovation framework

Studies indicate inhaled isopropyl alcohol (IIA) is effective or superior to ondansetron for adult patients. Although quick-acting and low cost, it cannot be assumed this remedy is suitable for adoption in all settings. We explored how an innovative antiemetic remedy studied in the United States translates to a sub-Saharan Africa clinic/hospital setting using Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Framework.

Qualitative design with purposive sampling.

Health care staff (n = 11) providing and community members (n = 22) accessing health care services in a sub-Saharan Africa clinic/hospital.

Semi-structured interviews with coding and identification of themes via deductive content analysis using Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation Framework.

Nausea and vomiting was a common complaint, with malaria the most common etiology. Participants emphasized treatment of etiology over symptomatic treatment and described previous aromatherapy use. IIA advantages included administration route, quick-acting, self-administration, portable, available, and easy trialability. Participants expressed concerns regarding use of term "alcohol" as potentially offensive to others.

Use of Rogers' Diffusion of Innovation framework identified barriers and facilitators to translation of a novel antiemetic remedy for sub-Saharan Africa clinic/hospital settings. Evaluating clinical innovations from perspectives of relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability enhances adoption of innovations within clinical settings.