Trauma team members' perceptions of the effectiveness of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a phenomenological study.

Abstract

Background: Trauma is a leading cause of mortality and disability in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Among African nations, Ethiopia has one of the highest trauma fatality rates at 26.7% per 100,000 population, significantly exceeding rates in many other LMICs. Most trauma cases occur in the capital, Addis Ababa. Despite this significant burden, the effectiveness and quality of trauma care in Addis Ababa vary widely across hospitals, driven by disparities in available resources and the knowledge levels of trauma team members.

Objective: This qualitative study aimed to explore trauma team members' perceptions of the effectiveness of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods: This study used a qualitative phenomenological design to analyze trauma care team members' perceptions of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The population included trauma team members, healthcare personnel, hospital leaders and coordinators from nine hospitals. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The study used the Colaizzi approach and ATLAS.ti 23 software for data analysis. An inductive-deductive strategy, alternating between data analysis and emergent concepts and theories to identify patterns. Memos and display matrices were generated for in-depth analysis.

Results: This study identified several challenges with the trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, including a lack of effective leadership, coordination, and teamwork spirit; insufficient referral connections in the trauma care system; knowledge gaps among health-care professionals; and poor organization of the emergency room and trauma center. In addition, participants perceived that factors such as insufficient pharmaceutical and medical equipment and ineffective ambulance services may have contributed to the increased number of deaths and disabilities among trauma patients in the country.

Conclusion: The qualitative report highlights the gaps in Ethiopia's emergency trauma care system and recommends strategies for improvement, including clear leadership, policies, resources, communication, and continuous training.