Mothers perception of blood transfusion in children under 5 years in Kisoro hospital, Uganda

Abstract

Introduction: Blood transfusion is the main cornerstones of modern medical practice which started way back in 1818 by James Brundell (Virge et al, 2000) and is the main treatment for anaemia. Although it is an important clinical intervention in paediatrics, surgery, maternal health and general medicine, it has been received with mixed feelings from the mothers sometimes leading to runaways or direct rejection. Objective: This study sought to explore mothers’ perceptions of blood transfusion in children under five years. Methodology: A qualitative descriptive design was employed. The study involved seven mothers selected by purposive sampling, who were caring for medically stable children who had received a blood transfusion. Data was coded, transcribed and analyzed using Colaizzi’s approach. Results: Four themes emerged from nine categories describing mothers’ perceptions of blood transfusion: Trust, fear of the unknown, blood safety and being optimistic. These qualitative findings reveal mixed feelings about blood transfusion. Conclusion: In conclusion the themes that emerged were mostly expressions of perceptions of blood transfusion. These qualitative findings suggest that public acceptance of blood transfusion as a medical intervention is based on their perceptions of the risks involved and the perceived benefits of the intervention. Recommendations: It is clear that knowledge of the facts about blood transfusion by health workers is paramount; therefore, this knowledge needs to be communicated to the public so that they are able to make informed choices about their treatment. There should be psychological preparation of the patients and their caretakers prior to blood transfusion in an attempt to change the negative perceptions and alleviate fears