A Qualitative Study of Community Health Nurses' Home Visiting Experiences in the Keta Municipality, Ghana

Abstract

Purpose: This study explored the experiences of Community Health Nurses (CHNs) providing home-based services in the Keta Municipality, Ghana, emphasizing the challenges and barriers faced while delivering healthcare in remote and riverine communities.

Design: An exploratory qualitative research approach was used to gain in-depth insights into CHNs' home visiting experiences within this specific context.

Methods: Fifteen CHNs were purposively selected and interviewed using a semi-structured guide. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed following Braun et al.'s six-step process to identify key themes and subthemes.

Findings: Three themes with 12 subthemes emerged: (1) factors influencing the accessibility and frequency of home visits, (2) healthcare services provided during home visits, and (3) barriers to effective service delivery. The findings highlight geographical isolation, financial constraints, inadequate transportation, cultural barriers, and limited logistical resources as major challenges. Despite these, CHNs provide critical services, including antenatal and postnatal care, immunizations, health education, and health monitoring, to improve access to healthcare in underserved areas.

Conclusions: Home visiting is an essential healthcare delivery approach in Keta Municipality, serving as a bridge to healthcare for remote populations. Enhancing logistical support, addressing staffing shortages, and providing adequate incentives can significantly improve service delivery and healthcare outcomes.

Clinical evidence: The study underscores the importance of community-level interventions and policy support in optimizing healthcare delivery in rural and riverine communities, thereby improving maternal and child health and reducing healthcare inequities.

Keywords: L14.