PERCEPTION

Team-based care is an approach to healthcare delivery that aims to improve patient safety, streamline clinical workflows, and reduce clinical errors. While collaborative models are known to improve patient outcomes, their implementation in everyday practice can be limited by varied levels of awareness, traditional hospital hierarchies, and communication xvi gaps among healthcare professionals. This study assessed the knowledge and perception of team- based care among clinical staff in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted among 418 clinical staff at UBTH, selected using a stratified random sampling technique. Data were collected using a pretested, structured, self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of team-based care principles, overall perception of interprofessional collaboration, and factors influencing its practical implementation. Knowledge and perception scores were categorized as good (≥50%) or poor (<50%). Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 27.0. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression were used as appropriate. Results: The mean age of respondents was 36.84 ± 8.65 years, with the largest proportion (45.1%) in the 30–39 years age group. Most respondents (58.2%) were nurses, while 31.4% comprised doctors, pharmacists, and other clinical professionals. Overall, 88.5% of respondents had previously heard of team-based care, with clinical meetings and departmental seminars being the most common sources of information (54.0%). A total of 72.0% had good knowledge of team-based care frameworks, and 84.0% held a positive perception toward its practice. Professional cadre was significantly associated with knowledge (\chi^2 = 26.14, p < 0.001), and years of clinical work experience was also significantly associated with knowledge (\chi^2 = 8.45, p = 0.012). Conclusion: Although overall baseline knowledge of team-based care was moderate, with 72.0% of respondents demonstrating good knowledge, the majority of clinical staff held a positive perception toward interprofessional collaboration (84%). These findings suggest that xvii while readiness to adopt collaborative care is high among staff, practical execution faces systemic institutional challenges. Routine interprofessional training workshops, formalized hospital guidelines, and the early introduction of team-based modules in undergraduate medical and health curricula are recommended to improve collaborative healthcare delivery at UBTH. Keywords: Team-based care; knowledge; perception; clinical staff; interprofessional collaboration; UBTH; Nigeria.

Background: Patient safety is a fundamental component of quality healthcare and an essential aspect of healthcare training. Medical errors and preventable adverse events remain major causes of morbidity and mortality globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries such as Nigeria. Adequate knowledge and positive perceptions of patient safety are important for promoting safe clinical practice and reducing preventable harm. However, gaps in patient safety education and training continue to exist among medical and nursing students. Objective: This study assessed the knowledge, perception and determinants of patient safety among medical and nursing students in the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Benin City, Edo State. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 420 consenting medical and nursing students in the University of Benin selected through a stratified sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire adapted from the WHO Patient Safety Curriculum Guide and the Attitudes to Patient Safety Questionnaire III (APSQ-III). The questionnaire assessed respondents’socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of patient safety, perception toward patient safety, and determinants influencing patient safety knowledge and perception. Data collected was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 27.0. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were used to summarize the data. Chi-square test and multivariable analysis were used to determine associations and predictors of patient safety knowledge and perception. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results were presented in tables, charts and prose. Results: A total of 420 respondents participated in the study, with a mean age of 22.2 ± 2.6 years. Most respondents, 383 (91.2%) had heard of patient safety with lectures 298 (71.0%) and clinical postings 273 (65.0%) being the major sources of information. Three hundred and eighty-nine (92.6%) of respondents had good knowledge of patient safety. Respondents residing off-campus were significantly less likely to have good knowledge of patient safety compared to those living in school hostels (OR = 0.376, 95% CI: 0.145-0.974, p = 0.044), while respondents who had not heard of patient safety were about 92% less likely to have good knowledge compared to those who were aware (OR = 0.081, 95% CI: 0.029-0.227, p < 0.001). Overall, 273 (65%) had positive perception of patient safety. Majority agreed that patient safety is a global issue (92.4%), most clinical errors are preventable (92.6%), patient involvement improves safety (93.3%) and teamwork reduces errors (88.8%). Respondents sponsored by parents were about three times more likely to have positive perception compared to those who sponsored themselves (OR = 3.296, 95% CI: 1.325-8.194, p = 0.010). Determinants influencing patient safety included supervisory emphasis on patient safety (96.7%), integration of safety concepts into lectures and training (87.1%), adequate clinical training (71.7%), practical teaching methods (97.9%), and personal motivation (86.7%). Conclusion: Medical and nursing students in the University of Benin demonstrated generally good knowledge and positive perceptions of patient safety. Despite this, gaps still exist in system-based understanding of patient safety. Strengthening patient safety education through improved curriculum integration and simulation-based learning is recommended to further promote patient safety culture among future healthcare professionals.

Background: Task-shifting in primary healthcare was an initiative long adopted by the Federal Ministry of Health to assist in ensuring human resource maximization for universal health coverage especially across domains of reproductive, maternal, child health, family planning, and high prevalence communicable illness like tuberculosis and malaria. Despite its potential, only some states have adopted and begun implementation of the strategy, and among states that have adopted it like Edo State, the necessary assessment to understand the implementation level, acceptance, integration status and concerns of health workers about it locally, is limited. Aim: This study assessed the knowledge, perception and barriers to task-shifting among primary healthcare workers in Benin-City. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 120 healthcare workers selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured, self and interviewer administered questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, perception, barriers and enablers to task-shifting. Data were analysed using SPSS version 27.0. Univariate analysis summarised means, frequencies, and percentages. Bivariate analysis using chi square tests determined associations between socio-demographic factors and respondents’ knowledge and perception. Binary logistic regression identified independent determinants of good knowledge and perception. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 120 respondents participated, with a mean age of 35.9 ± 8.6 years, with females being 112 (93.3%), males 8 (6.7%). Those who demonstrated good knowledge were 37 (30.8%), and those with poor knowledge 83 (69.2%). Receiving training on task-shifting was found to be statistically significant and associated with knowledge, as those with prior training had good knowledge (59.9%) record than those without (17%) (χ²: 21.455; p < 0.001). Perception of task-shifting was mixed, as good and poor perception were almost equally distributed at 59 (49.2%) and 61 (50.8%) respectively. Age was significantly associated with perception, and was also a significant predictor of knowledge, with increasing age associated with reduced likelihood of positive perception (OR = 0.927; p = 0.024). Workers with 5 – 9 years of experience were also less likely to have positive perception of task-shifting (OR = 0.165, 95% CI: 0.031–0.872, p = 0.034). The barriers to task-shifting encountered most by respondents were inadequate training and knowledge gaps (mean score: 3.99 ± 1.19), lack of clear job description or role boundary (3.74 ± 1.28), inadequate supervision or monitoring (3.64 ± 1.28), lack of incentives or recognition (3.54 ± 1.33), resistance from higher cadres, shortage of staff and related issues were also mentioned as challenges/barriers. The enablers reported were adequate training, and supportive supervision (3.90 ± 1.42), availability of clear policy guideline (3.93 ± 1.42), teamwork and collaboration among cadres (3.77 ± 1.41), support from management and policy makers (3.79 ± 1.41). Conclusion: Primary healthcare workers in Benin-City had predominantly poor knowledge of task-shifting and the national task-shifting policy, coupled with mixed perception of task-shifting. Inadequate knowledge or training among staff, lack of clear job descriptions or roles, inadequate supervision or mentoring, lack of incentives or recognition were the identified barriers, while adequate training and supportive supervision, provision of policy guidelines, teamwork and inter-cadre collaboration, and support from management and policy makers were named among enablers. There should be concerted efforts to improve knowledge and perception of task- shifting through training and adequate supervision provision; this will also remove barriers to task-shifting.

The paper determined the attitudes and perceptions of radiographers towards patients with HIV/AIDS in the selected hospitals within Edo State, Nigeria. The cross- sectional was a descriptive design and 60 registered radiographers were selected, which included the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Edo Specialist Hospital and Raytouch Diagnostics. The structured and self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data which were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using the Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 30.0. The findings showed that the attitude and perception of radiographers towards HIV/AIDS patients were generally positive as indicated by high mean score of compliance to universal precautions (Mean = 4.07) and fairness to patients (Mean = 3.78). However, some neutral answers revealed some remaining fear, lack of trust in regular routine HIV care and difficulty with poor facilities. The correlation between the years of practice (Spearman = 0.016, p = 0.902) and attitude was not significant, which indicated that the years of experience did not define positive attitudes alone. The research established that the radiographers are characterized by a commendable professionalism with regard to HIV/AIDS patients but need the unceasing training and enhanced institutional subsidies to uphold this standard. It suggests continuous professional growth, enhanced infection-control facilities, and stigma-reduction measures in order to boost the confidence and quality of care delivery of radiographers

Patient-centered care is increasingly recognized as a critical determinant of quality in diagnostic imaging. Communication between radiographers and patients during computed tomography (CT) procedures plays a central role in shaping psychological responses, particularly in relation to comfort and anxiety. Despite its importance, limited evidence exists in the Nigerian context on how radiographer communication influences patient experience. This study therefore assessed the relationship between radiographer communication and patients’ psychological responses during CT examinations. This descriptive cross-sectional survey employed a structured questionnaire to collect data from 97 patients undergoing CT procedures. A purposive sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27.0, employing descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests of association. Findings were presented in frequency tables, percentages, and statistical outputs at a significance level of p < 0.05. The findings revealed that 63.9% of respondents were first-time CT patients, with the majority reporting heightened anxiety before, during, and after the procedure. While 79.3% acknowledged that radiographers provided clear procedural explanations, only 63.9% felt their anxiety was reduced by the communication received. Chi-square analysis showed no statistically significant association between radiographer communication and psychological responses of comfort and anxiety (χ² = 9.394, df = 1, p = 0.659). Although radiographer communication was effective in providing technical explanations, it was less effective in addressing patients’ emotional needs. This underscores a training gap in therapeutic communication and psychological support within radiography practice. The study recommends integrating patient psychology, therapeutic communication, and anxiety management modules into radiography curricula, alongside continuing professional development programs. Healthcare facilities should prioritize staff-patient interaction

This study investigates the public perception of the Nigerian police force in Egor LocalGovernment Area of Edo State. Guided by the system theory, it explores how residentsassess the performance, behavior and relationship of the police with the community. Using adescriptive survey design, data were collected from 100 randomly selected respondents fromthe age range of 18 years to 46 years and above through structured questionnaire andanalyzed using simple percentages and frequency tables. Findings shows that while the police force holds a vital role in the maintenance order, public-perception remains largely negative due to corruption, bribery, poor response to distresscalls and police brutality. Respondents also identified inadequate training and lowmotivation as factors affecting police effectiveness. This study concluded that bridging thegap between police force and the community requires improved welfare, accountability andenhanced community policing initiatives to restore trust and credibility in the NigerianPolice Force

Background: Malaria remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among under-five children in Nigeria. The introduction of malaria vaccines (RTS,S/AS01 and R21/Matrix-M) offers a promising complementary intervention. However, vaccine acceptance is critically dependent on caregivers' knowledge and perceptions—factors that remain poorly characterized in Benin City, Edo State. Objective: To assess the knowledge, perception, acceptance, and factors influencing acceptance of malaria vaccines among caregivers of under-five children in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A community-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2024 to May 2026 among 426 caregivers of under-five children selected through a multi- stage sampling technique in Ekosodin community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area, Benin City. Data were collected using a pretested, structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire. Knowledge was assessed using a 12-point scoring system (categorized as good: ≥50%), perception using a 10-item Likert scale (positive: >60%), and acceptance as willingness to vaccinate. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 27.0; bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results: The mean age of respondents was 35.2±10.4 years; the majority were female (68.1%), married (67.1%), and had secondary education (43.7%). While awareness of malaria was universal (99.8%), only 44.1% had heard of the malaria vaccine, and overall good knowledge of the vaccine was poor (20.2%). Positive perception toward the malaria vaccine was high (84.7%). Willingness to accept the vaccine was 73.5%, although actual uptake remained low (11.5%). Fear of adverse reactions (82.3%) was the predominant reason for refusal. Significant predictors of good vaccine knowledge included tertiary education (AOR=4.84; 95% CI: 2.67–8.77; p=0.001) and ever-married status (AOR=2.40; 95% CI: 1.09–5.26; p=0.030). Positive perception was strongly associated with Christian religious affiliation (AOR=7.37; 95% CI: 3.10–17.54; p<0.001). The strongest independent predictor of willingness to accept the malaria vaccine was positive perception (AOR=7.39; 95% CI: 3.87–14.12; p<0.001), followed by good knowledge of the vaccine (AOR=2.87; 95% CI: 1.24–6.63; p=0.014). Increasing age was associated with reduced willingness (AOR=0.97; 95% CI: 0.95–1.00; p=0.046). Conclusion: Despite favorable perception and high willingness to accept malaria vaccines among caregivers in Benin City, significant gaps exist in knowledge and awareness. Perception emerged as the strongest driver of acceptance, while educational status and marital status influenced knowledge. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted health education interventions, particularly leveraging healthcare professionals as trusted information sources, to bridge the knowledge-practice gap and optimize malaria vaccine uptake in this setting. Keywords: Malaria vaccine, knowledge, perception, acceptance, caregivers, under-five children, Benin City, Nigeria.

This study assessed the public perception and awareness of ultrasound as a diagnostic tool beyond pregnancy among undergraduate students in the University of Benin, Ugbowo campus. Although ultrasound is widely recognized for its use in obstetric imaging, its broader diagnostic applications remain underappreciated by the public. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design
was adopted, targeting students from the Faculties of Arts, Life Sciences, and Basic Medical Sciences. Using a stratified random sampling method, a total of 327 questionnaires were distributed and completed. Data were collected through a structured self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Findings revealed that 60.24% of respondents were female, while the majority (53.21%) were between 20 and 23 years old. Most respondents (40.37%) were from the Faculty of Arts, with the 300-level students contributing the largest group (24.46%). The study showed that although most students were aware of ultrasound as a tool for pregnancy monitoring, their knowledge of its use in other diagnostic areas such as abdominal, cardiac, and musculoskeletal examinations was limited. Despite this, respondents generally perceived ultrasound positively, describing it as safe, affordable, and advantageous
compared to other imaging modalities like CT and MRI. The study concludes that while awareness of ultrasound beyond pregnancy remains inadequate, students hold favorable attitudes toward its diagnostic potential. It recommends strengthening health education initiatives, integrating basic diagnostic imaging information into university health programs, and organizing awareness campaigns to broaden public understanding of ultrasound’s diverse clinical applications.

Background: Residency training is a supervised postgraduate medical program in Nigeria designed to prepare doctors for specialization. Resident doctors play a critical role in patient management and interdisciplinary collaboration, including aiding referral to rehabilitation services such as physiotherapy. However, evidence suggests that the utilization of physiotherapy services largely depends on physicians’ awareness and perception of its role. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the knowledge and perception of physiotherapy among resident doctors in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin City, Edo State. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among 169 resident doctors in UBTH, selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from validated instruments. The questionnaire assessed sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of physiotherapy, perception of the profession, and factors influencing both. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS v26). Descriptive statistics including frequencies and percentages were used to summarize responses. Results: Of the 169 participants, 62.1% were male and 49.1% were aged 31–45 years. Most respondents (89.9%) identified a degree as the qualification required to practice physiotherapy, and 59.8% reported five years of training. However, 74.0% believed that a doctor’s referral was mandatory before patients could access physiotherapy. While 96.4% recognized physiotherapy as essential in rehabilitation and 60.9% considered it first-line management for musculoskeletal disorders, only 41.4% had personally consulted physiotherapists. Overall, 62.1% demonstrated satisfactory perception of physiotherapy, while 32.0% exhibited good perception. Key factors influencing knowledge and perception included clinical case outcomes (55.0%), interprofessional communication (55.0%), and research findings (46.2%).
Conclusion: Resident doctors in UBTH demonstrated good knowledge and largely positive perception of physiotherapy, although misconceptions about physiotherapy autonomy and limited awareness of practice settings persist. Strengthening undergraduate exposure, interprofessional education, and clinical collaboration may improve referral practices and enhance integration of physiotherapy in patient care.

Vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) is an abnormal opening between the balder and the vagina in which urine leaks into the vagina. Sometimes this type develops as a result of obstructed labour in childbirth. This abnormality is rampant among adolescents and as such many young adolescent students still do not have good knowledge about the causes and implication on health. On this note, this study was designed to investigate perception of vesico-vagina fistula among adolescent students in selected secondary school in Ovia North-east Local Government, Edo State. A sample size of 230 adolescents was selected through random sampling technique. A well- structured questionnaire was used as instrument of data collection based on the research objectives. Data collected was analysed using descriptive (Frequency, percentage and mean) and inferential statistics. The level of significance was set at � < 0.05. The data analysis was carried out using IBM Statistical package for Social Science (SPSS) version 21.0 for windows. The result shows that the Adolescents have good knowledge about vesico-vagina fistula and have high (positive) perception towards VVF and the prevention mechanism.