Patient knowledge, attitudes and practices on chronic wound infections in Tanga Regional Referral Hospital, Tanzania; A qualitative study

Bacterial wound infections contribute significantly to global mortality, with nearly half of contaminated wounds progressing to chronic states, which can result in amputations. In Tanzania, the situation is worsened by the misuse of antibiotics and the rise of drug-resistant bacteria, alongside patients' varied understanding of wound care management. This qualitative study explores patient knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding chronic wound infections in Tanzania. A sample of 15 patients was selected from both genders, representing a wide range of ages and wound severities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted in Swahili at the Tanga Regional Referral Hospital (TRRH) from October 2023 to April 2024. Interviews used open-ended questions on dietary habits, traditional medicine, medication adherence, and wound care practices. Social demographic data were collected to contextualize patient experiences. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed via Nvivo. Thematic analysis of the interviews identified six major themes: delays in treatment-seeking, inadequate wound management, reliance on ritual practices, poor eating behaviors, challenges in coping with chronic wounds, and inadequate healthcare services. Delays stemmed from misjudging wound severity and reliance on traditional healers. Financial constraints contributed to inadequate wound management, with many patients turning to traditional remedies. Nutritious food access was limited, primarily due to financial and availability constraints. Patients faced substantial physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Long wait times and inconsistent care were also major barriers to effective wound management. Chronic wound infections are exacerbated by systemic healthcare shortcomings and limited patient education. Insights from patient perspectives emphasizes the need for proper wound management, understanding of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and addressing cultural beliefs and resource constraints. Patient-centered models can foster more effective and sustainable models of wound care in the community setting.