Nguefack, F University of Yaounde I - Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cameroon , Nguefack, F Yaoundé Gynaeco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital, Cameroon , Ngo Um, Suzanne University of Yaounde I - Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cameroon , Ngo Um, Suzanne Chantal Biya Foundation - Mother and Child Centre, Cameroon , Mah, Evelyn University of Yaounde I - Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Cameroon , Mah, Evelyn Yaoundé Gynaeco-Obstetric and Pediatric Hospital, Cameroon , Azinui, Oliver Catholic University of Central Africa - School of Health Sciences, Cameroon , Forbuzo, Achu Valery Ministry of public Health, Cameroon , Dongmo, R Hôpital de District d’Efoulan-Yaoundé, Cameroun

The Implementation of the Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses Can Improve the Management of HIV by Peripheral Health Workers

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Context. The Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses (IMCI) aims to reduce death, illness, disability, and to promote improved growth and development of children 5years. Our objective was to assess the effectiveness of IMCI as a tool to facilitate diagnosis of HIV. Method. This was a cross sectional observational study. We interviewed health workers (HWs) on IMCI and observed them during the assessment of at least five patients in 14 health facilities. An IMCI trainer then reassessed the children to confirm the conclusions made. Variables studied were: training, skill in IMCI, difficulty and suggestions to improve IMCI. HIV assessment was based on signs called “5 entry door” on which are based the classification and management of cases. Results. 30 workers were included; 43.8% of HWs had less than two years in the service, and 53.3% were not trained. Most of HWs (85.7%) not formerly trained were implementing the IMCI. They demonstrated various abilities to correctly manage. Among the untrained, 8 (66.6%) against 16 (100%) trained HWs adequately assessed, classified and managed children following the algorithm for HIV. Most of them (72.2%) declared that the IMCI facilitates early consultation. Majority (94.6%) had difficulty in implementing the algorithm due lack of material, training, supervision and motivation. Conclusion. The IMCI algorithm is a tool that can facilitate the identification of HIV infection. In a context where the check-treat strategy is not wide spread and where the PMTCT failed to detect all the infected/exposed children, routine implementation of the IMCI can improve the HIV management program.

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IMCI , assessment , HIV , aids , children

Health Sciences an‎d Diseases

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