Challenges and Counselling Needs of Sickle Cell Patients Attending University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital
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Date
2012
Authors
Yahaya, L. A.
Durosaro, A.
Nuhu, M. A.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African Journals Online
Abstract
This study investigated the challenges and counselling needs of sickle cell patients
attending the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH) Kwara State, Nigeria. Purposive
sampling was used to select 120 literate regular and non-regular patients of the hospital. A
researcher developed instrument titled “Challenges and Counselling Needs of Sickle Cell Patients
Questionnaire” (CCNSPQ) was used to elicit information from these participants. Five research
questions raised in the study were answered using frequency counts, means and ranking and
Analysis of Variance was used to test the hypotheses formulated at the .05 level of confidence. The
findings showed that excessive bone, abdominal and chest pains are the major challenges
confronting the respondents while occasional embarrassment due to unexpected sickness
accompanying sickle cell disorder and stigma are the most serious counselling needs. There was no
significant difference in the challenges of sickle cell patients based on age but the respondents had
significantly different counselling needs. Therefore, it is recommended that guidance and public
health education be put in place to reduce the stigmatisation of sickle cell patients. In addition, wellequipped
clinics should be provided to facilitate early treatment. Genetic Counselling should also
be provided both in the school and the community to prevent future occurrence of sickle cell
disorder.
Description
Keywords
Sickle cell disorder, Genetic counselling, Higher education