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Volume 1, No. 1Revue Communauté-Santé et Sciences Infirmières

Published January 1, 2024

Articles

  1. Pierre Kodiomala, Simon-Decap Mabakutuvangilanga Ntela (Author)

    Prevention of Smoking During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of the Literature

    Pregnancy constitutes a period of increased vulnerability. When a pregnant woman smokes, this vulnerability is amplified, leading to severe consequences for both her health and that of the fetus, during pregnancy, childbirth, and after birth. It therefore becomes imperative to develop and implement appropriate strategies aimed at preventing smoking within this specific population. Method: A systematic literature review was conducted using the PubMed and Google Scholar databases to identify various strategies and interventions developed to prevent smoking during pregnancy. The literature search was performed by combining the keywords "intervention"/"prevention," "smoking," and "pregnancy." Using the Boolean operators AND/OR, the following search equations were constructed: "intervention" OR "prevention" AND "smoking" AND "pregnancy" on Google Scholar, as well as "intervention" OR "prevention" AND "smoking" AND "pregnancy" on PubMed. Results: The results indicate that 73.3% of the interventions deployed proved effective in preventing smoking among pregnant women, while 26.7% demonstrated ineffectiveness. The identified preventive approaches include notably: training, information, and awareness; financial incentives for pregnant women who maintained abstinence; physical exercise; the use of nicotine substitutes or tobacco alternatives; exogenous administration of progesterone; adoption of the behavioral model developed by Prochaska and DiClemente as well as the Anglo-Saxon "5 A's" model; total prohibition of any form of tobacco-positive advertising; peer counseling; and the use of positive social influences promoting smoking cessation. Discussion: The majority of interventions (3 out of 15) are primarily based on training, information, and awareness of pregnant women. Prevention fundamentally relies on clear communication regarding health risks as well as a better understanding of tobacco dependence. This approach corresponds to what the World Health Organization designates as a reverse marketing campaign. It should finally be emphasized that ignorance remains the main factor favoring the continuation of smoking during pregnancy.

  2. Alain MPIDI MASONGA, Bin-Eradi Imani Ramazani, Simon-Decap MABAKUTUVANGILANGA NTELA, Jean Manuel MORVILLERS (Author)

    Satisfaction and Loyalty of Type 2 Diabetic Patients in the City of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo: E ect of the Patient-as-Care-Partner Model

    Introduction : This study evaluates the satisfaction and retention of type 2 diabetic
    (T2D) patients in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, through the Patient Partner
    in Care model. This model aims to improve the healthcare system by focusing e orts on
    collaboration, education, and communication.
    Method : We conducted a qualitative study with a descriptive phenomenological ap
    proach, including semi-structured interviews with 15 patients recruited at the Elimo-Santu
    Health Center. Data analysis was based on a thematic approach through triangulation,
    facilitating the identi cation of themes and categories.
    Results : The results show overall patient satisfaction, attributed to the quality of care,
    advice, and personalized support, reinforced by a computerized appointment system. In
    terprofessional collaboration among doctors, nurses, and laboratory technicians was consi
    dered crucial, promoting a better understanding of the disease and improved adherence
    to appointments. However, dissatisfaction was noted regarding the quality of medications,
    waiting times, and insu cient state coverage of care.
    Discussion : The integration of the Patient Partner strategy into multidisciplinary work
    is a lever to strengthen the quality of primary care and retention of T2D patients in Kin
    shasa, with recommendations to improve appointment systems and waiting conditions.

  3. Kabanga MASUDI MUGENI, Flavienne MATOKO NZINGA, Antoine NGEREZA MUHIYA, Simon-Decap MABAKUTUVANGILANGA NTELA (Author)

    Associated with Mothers' Non-Adherence to Preschool Consultations at Lwama Health Center

    Introduction : Preschool consultation (PSC) plays a critical role in the prevention of child health issues, particularly in resource-limited settings. However, family adherence varies and is inuenced by sociocultural, economic, and organizational factors. This study aims to identify the determinants of non-compliance with PSC among mothers attending the Lwama Health Center in Kindu (DRC), to guide targeted interventions.

    Methods : A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among mothers of children under ve years old. Non-probabilistic sampling was used. Data were collected via a selfadministered questionnaire (in French and Swahili). Descriptive analyses and chi-square tests were performed to examine associations between variables and PSC non-compliance ; significance threshold set at p < 0.05. Data analysis was carried out using Excel and SPSS.
    Results : Among 142 mothers (median age 27 years ; children aged 2-54 months), 63% did not adhere regularly to PSC. Signicant factors associated with non-compliance included having a child 6 months old (p = 0.001) ; maternal age <20 years (p = 0.014) ; low maternal education level (p = 0.003). Other associations involved use of traditional medicine (p= 0.01) and perceived cost of PSC (p = 0.005). Inuential organizational factors included
    waiting times exceeding one hour (p = 0.003) and distance greater than 10 km from the PSC facility (p = 0.04). Service availability periods and home visits showed lesser effects.
    Discussion : Socioeconomic, cultural, and logistical barriers impede adherence to PSC. Perceived costs and geographic constraints emerge as key intervention points. Recommendations include community awareness campaigns, reduction of indirect costs, improved access through proximity or mobile clinics, and involvement of male partners in decisionmaking processes. Additional qualitative research is suggested to better understand local dynamics.

  4. Flavienne Matoko Nzinga, Monique Rothan-Tondeur (Author)

    Perceptions of COVID-19 Vaccination Among Nurses at Saint Joseph Hospital in Limete, Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo

    The COVID-19 pandemic had a global impact, and vaccination has emerged as one of the main strategies to curb the crisis. In Congo, mistrust of vaccination, especially among healthcare workers, has hindered the campaign. This study aims to understand the representations and perceptions of nurses at Saint Joseph Hospital in Limete regarding COVID-19 vaccination. Method : A qualitative phenomenological approach was used. Participants were nurses from the COVID-19 and intensive care units, recruited through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and then manually analyzed by thematic content. Results : Twenty-four nurses participated. Two major trends emerged: an initial refusal of vaccination, fueled by misinformation, fear of side effects, and the perception of professional injustice (feeling like "guinea pigs" or victims of inequalities), followed by a gradual shift toward better acceptance linked to awareness of professional risk. However, fears persist, including suspicion of political manipulation, fear of sterilization or poisoning, and uncertainty about vaccine quality. Healthcare workers call for strategies to dispel concerns and desire non-exclusive vaccination. Discussion : Nurses' hesitation toward vaccination reflects low health literacy and the importance of a climate of trust. Their partial acceptance highlights the need for tailored information and better management of rumors. This study highlights the necessity to strengthen education and communication about vaccines among nurses, key actors in the health response. Promoting transparent information and combating fake news are essential to improve vaccine uptake and the management of future health crises.

  5. Napoléon OLUA LUNGHE, Emile NGONGO TCHOMBA, José ASSANI TUTU (Author)

    Analysis of Socio-Demographic, Clinical, and Environmental Factors Associated with Infant Mortality Due to Severe Malaria: A Case Study of the Kindu General Referral Hospital

    Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the socio-demographic and clinical risk factors associated with mortality from severe malaria in children, a prevalent issue in endemic areas.  Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on clinical and demographic data concerning children affected by severe malaria. The examined variables include age, sex, type of living environment, distance to the hospital, as well as clinical comorbidities and treatment responses. Results: The observed mortality varies across age groups, showing a death rate of 19.7% among children under 11 months and 54.4% among those aged between 12 and 59 months. Male sex and urban residency are correlated with better survival rates. Additionally, a distance of less than or equal to 5 km from the hospital also favors survival. Furthermore, comorbidities such as bacterial infections and HIV/AIDS, along with conditions like anemia and neurological manifestations, significantly increase the risk of mortality. Resistance to antimalarial treatments is identified as an exacerbating factor.  Discussion: These findings highlight the need to direct interventions toward high-risk children, particularly those with co-infections and severe clinical complications. Effective prevention policies alongside improved access to appropriate care could further contribute to reducing malaria-related mortality. 

  6. Françis PEMBE PEMBI, Simon-Decap Mabakutuvangilanga Ntela (Author)

    Experience of Couples During Vaso-Occlusive Crises in Children with Sickle Cell Disease : A Study Conducted at the Mabanga Center for Mixed Medicine and SS Anemia

    Introduction : Sickle cell disease is a prominent genetic condition in sub-Saharan Africa,
    causing recurrent vaso-occlusive crises that create serious medical, psychological, and social
    burdens for affected families. In the Democratic Republic of Congo, care resources
    are scarce, threatening family stability and quality of life.
    Method : A descriptive, phenomenological qualitative study was conducted at the Mixed
    Medicine and SS Anemia Center (CMMASS) in Mabanga, Kinshasa. Twenty-four parents
    of children with sickle cell disease were purposively selected and interviewed using semistructured
    individual interviews. Thematic manual analysis was used to categorize their
    experiences during their children’s crises.
    Results : Vaso-occlusive crises led to significant stress, financial hardship, and a negative
    impact on marital stability. Parents reported emotional distress, anxiety about their
    child’s future, and a sense of guilt regarding the origins of the condition. Cultural beliefs,
    religious faith, and medical understanding shaped their perception of the disease. Many
    described increased marital conflict, mutual distrust, and even separation. However, a
    minority of families strengthened their unity and communication in the face of adversity.
    Discussion : This study underscores the essential need for multi-faceted support for families
    coping with sickle cell disease. Incorporating psychological and social support into
    medical care is crucial. Recommendations include enhanced governmental involvement,
    genetic counseling, and broader awareness campaigns to break the cycle of stigma and
    better support couples as they navigate the challenges of this chronic illness.

  7. Bin-Eradi Imani Ramazani , Simon-Decap MABAKUTUVANGILANGA NTELA, Monique Rothan-Tondeur (Author)

    Knowledge and Empowerment of Women to Reduce Maternal Mortality: Proposal for a Multimodal Health Promotion Intervention.

    Numerous programs are being implemented around the world to combat ma
    ternal mortality, but many are not signi cantly e ective, not least because they have not
    integrated the relevant stakeholders into the interventions. In this article, we present our
    point of view on the implementation of programs to combat maternal mortality and a proposal for an intervention program. This program aims to increase women's level of
    knowledge and empowerment about obstetrical danger signs through a multimodal health
    promotion approach involving all stakeholders, including the women themselves, their hus
    bands, traditional birth attendants, community members and health care providers.