Implementation of national health policy in managing malnutrition among under five children by using integrated management of acute malnutrition at Kishapu district

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Acute malnutrition among children under five is still a serious public health concern worldwide. Estimates suggest that if there were zero acute malnutrition, the global burden of disease (GBD) could be lowered by 32%. Tanzania is still one of ten developing countries in Sub-Saharan Africa with a persistently high prevalence of acute malnutrition among under five children, despite the promotion of integrated management of acute malnutrition. Objective: To assess the implementation of the National Health Policy in managing malnutrition among children under five by using Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition at Kishapu District Hospital. Methodology: Qualitative exploratory case study conducted at Kishapu District Hospital. A purposive sampling strategy was used to select the study participant which included five clinicians, three nurses, one nutrition officer and one social worker in Key informant Interview also here was one FGD of seven participant together with document review, all used in information gathering process. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis approach Results: The study found that , at Kishapu District Hospital, the implementation of National Health Policy by using IMAM guideline in managing malnutrition to under fives is being conducted daily. Three categories emerged from study analysis as follows; One, Procedure in identification of acute malnutrition. Two, Productiveness of IMAM in managing acute malnutrition, thirdly, the barriers for IMAM implementation Conclusion: This study offers a proof of the implementation of National Health policy to the primary healthcare institution in a rural Tanzanian environment when it comes to controlling malnutrition utilizing the IMAM guidelines. It supports research on the importance of efficient early detection techniques and IMAM guideline application. As per the IMAM national guideline, the Kishapu district hospital's implementation of the guideline generally has low upholding the fundamental criteria of maximum coverage and access, as well as timeliness.