Barrier and Facilitators Towards the Implementation of Oral Rehydration Therapy

ABSTRACT
Introduction: Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) is a life-saving intervention for the treatment of diarrhea, particularly in children under the age of five. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that diarrhea is responsible for approximately 1.4 million deaths of children under the age of five globally each year. ORT involves the administration of a solution of salt, sugar, and water to restore lost fluids and electrolytes during episodes of diarrhea. Method: This study is a cross-sectional, descriptive survey design which is an approach to determine the barriers and facilitators for implementation of Oral Rehydration Therapy among women in Jos North Local Government Area, Plateau State, Nigeria. The sample size is approximately 650 mothers who have ever nursed at least a baby from the randomly selected PHC centres. Data was collected using questionnaire.
Results: From the result obtained from the research conducted, it shows that majority of the study participant 131(52.8%) belonged to the age group 28-38 years of age, 74(29.8%) belonged to the age group 17-27 years, and remaining 43(17.3%) were 28- 46 years of age. Based on Barriers to Implementation, lack of Awareness and Knowledge which has a significant number of respondents feel that they lack awareness and knowledge about ORT, including its correct preparation and administration. This suggests the need for increased educational efforts to raise awareness about the importance and benefits of ORT. A notable proportion of respondents report limited access to ORT solutions in local healthcare facilities. Ensuring availability and accessibility of ORT at healthcare facilities is essential for timely treatment. Cultural or traditional beliefs discouraging the use of ORT pose another barrier. Addressing misconceptions and promoting the use of ORT in alignment with cultural norms is essential for acceptance and utilization.
Conclusion: Regarding barriers to implementation, lack of awareness and knowledge, limited access to ORT solutions, cultural beliefs, and lack of support from healthcare providers, difficulty in finding time, and perceptions of alternative treatments are identified as challenges that need to be addressed to enhance the effective implementation of ORT.