Healthcare Workers’ Perceptions of Care for Sexual Assault Survivors in Oshikoto, Namibia

Background: Sexual assault, as a major health concern, has the potential to lead to immediate and long-term health problems, such as sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancies and physical and psychological ill health. The purpose of the study was to explore healthcare workers’ perceptions of the comprehensiveness of their care delivery to sexual assault survivors. The objectives were to explore healthcare workers’ self-reports on the care of sexual assault survivors on the first presentation, factors affecting their management and follow-up care and recommendations by healthcare workers on how to improve care for this vulnerable group. Method: An exploratory, descriptive qualitative design was used to explore healthcare workers’ perceptions of the care of sexual assault survivors in Oshikoto, Namibia. Twelve (12) in-depth semi-structured personal interviews were conducted with healthcare workers dealing with sexual assault survivors in the region. Thematic data analysis was conducted. Coding was used to group ideas, from which three themes were generated. Results: The study revealed inadequate adherence to management guidelines and inappropriate attitudes towards sexual assault survivors and their care. This resulted in poor referral rates to psychological services and the absence of coordinated multidisciplinary follow-up services. Lack of involvement and support from the families of the sexual assault survivors was reported. The impact of this neglect has serious sequelae for already traumatised sexual assault survivors. Conclusion: Significant gaps existed in care delivery to sexual assault survivors, indicating a lack of relevant knowledge, adequate coordination of care activities as well as an absence of collaboration between relevant health departments in Oshikoto in Namibia. Urgent attention is required to facilitate improved physiological and psychological quality of care for sexual assault survivors in the region.