Beliefs and Perceptions of Midwives on Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of Hepatitis B in Selected Primary Health Care Facilities in Ghana.

BACKGROUND

Midwives play a critical role in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of Hepatitis B in Ghana. Their beliefs, perceptions, and attitudes may influence the uptake and delivery of preventive practices. This study used the theory of planned behavior (TPB) as a guiding framework to explore these factors.

METHOD: A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was used to engage 14 midwives who were purposively sampled from the Madina Polyclinic, Accra, from February to April 2020. Data were collected through in-depth semistructured interviews, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed manually using content analysis. Themes and subthemes were identified and reported.

RESULT: The findings of the study revealed one main theme of subjective norms reflecting issues of superior influence and organization protocols, and one other main theme of attitudes, encompassing positive behaviors towards PMTCT. Midwives generally perceived hepatitis B as severe and highly infectious, adhered to protocols, and demonstrated positive engagement in vaccination, screening, and health education. Fear of infection sometimes led to exaggerated protective practices, but did not prevent care delivery.

CONCLUSION

Midwives' attitudes and subjective norms are important determinants of PMTCT practices. Strengthening training, supervision, and promoting hepatitis B vaccination among health care workers could reduce fear, enhance preventive practices, and contribute to HBV elimination in Ghana.