Work

Professional Nurses’ Views and Experiences of Poor Health-Seeking Behavior Among Men in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Background/Objectives: The health-seeking behavior of men is a public health concern and is associated with poor health outcomes and lower life expectancy among men. Masculinity norms are among the factors contributing to men’s poor health-seeking behavior. This study explored the views and experiences of purposively selected nurses on men’s health-seeking behavior. Methods: Through qualitative descriptive design, individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 professional nurses, and collected data were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Tech’s eight steps were used to analyze data and guide the development of the main themes and sub-themes. Trustworthiness was ensured through credibility, confirmability, dependability, and transferability. Ethical approval was granted by the University of Venda Research ethics committee with reference number FHS/21/PH/26/1215. Results: Self-medication, a lack of trust in Western medicine, and the use of traditional healers were identified as reasons men underutilize health care services. Men were viewed as people who consult heath care services when illness is severe, feel uncomfortable with female nurses, and value respect from clinicians. Conclusions: Cultural norms still remain a barrier among men in this study setting, as men did not feel comfortable with their private parts being physically examined by female clinicians. There is a need to take note of cultural norms impacting health care service usage by men.

Source: Healthcare

DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12232320

Authors: Lazarros Chavalala, Rachel Tsakani Lebese, Lufuno Makhado

Institution: University of Venda

Language: English

Topic: Gender Roles and Identity Studies

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,069