Nurses' perceptions on primary health care in rural communities Kasoa, Ghana

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore the perceptions nurses have regarding PHC in rural communities in Kasoa, Ghana.The study was carried out in Kasoa in the Central Region of Ghana. The data were collected purposively using individual in-depth interview; the data were analysed using thematic data analysis approach. A total of 24 nurses were interviewed. This sample size was attained at saturation. The population for this study included all the nurses irrespective of category, qualification and experience and who are working in the PHC facilities in Kasoa rural areas. The categories of nurses were registered general nurses, enrolled nurses, midwives and community health nurses. The thematic analysis yielded 5 themes as follows: Participants’ interpretation of the meaning of Primary Health Care.The participants further perceived health education and patients’ rights provided at PHC facilities as helpful in achieving health outcomes. The participants had the perception that the provision of outreach services seems to be acceptable to communities and there are referral systems at PHC facilities, which are well-structured, clear and acceptable. The participants also perceive the CHPS zones as helpful to provide PHC services