Kalaiselvan Ganapathy - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Kalaiselvan Ganapathy

Research paper thumbnail of Effectiveness of ayurvedic formulation, NAOQ19 along with standard care in the treatment of mild-moderate COVID-19 patients: A double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicentric trial

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine

Research paper thumbnail of How Does Seating Arrangement Matter While Teaching in Small Groups

Online Journal of Health & Allied Sciences, May 15, 2014

A circular seating arrangement is best suited for small group discussions.

Research paper thumbnail of Health seeking behavior and reasons for “patient‐related” diagnostic delay among pulmonary tuberculosis suspects attending designated microscopy centre of medical college in rural Puducherry

International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, Mar 28, 2017

Background: The main strategy of modern TB control is early detection and treatment of sources of... more Background: The main strategy of modern TB control is early detection and treatment of sources of infection to reduce the duration of infectiousness. Delay in diagnosis has health provider factors and client factors. Health seeking behavior and reasons for TB diagnostic delay is important and which is one of the agenda for operational research under Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP). Methods: The present cross sectional study was conducted among 200 tuberculosis suspects attending the Designated Microscopy centre (DMC) of SMVMCH for a period of 2 months. Data was collected using a pre-designed questionnaire including sociodemographic details, health seeking behaviour, treatment delay and reasons for delay. Collected data was entered and analyzed in EPI_INFO (3.4.3). Descriptive statistics and significant association was established by the use of odd's ratio with 95% confidence interval. Results: Among the study subjects most of them were between the age group of 15 to 60 years and majority of them were male. Symptoms about tuberculosis was known only to 40(20%) of the suspects and 85(42.5%) accepted that tuberculosis is a curable disease. Among the various factors leading to patient related diagnostic delay age, marital status and multiple symptoms shows significant association. The most common reason for the delay is not aware of the severity of the symptoms 126(63%). Conclusions: There is poor knowledge about tuberculosis, its modes of spread and symptoms among Tb suspects. Patient related delays also common among them which warrant need for public health interventions to improve it.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of Tuberculosis among Household Contacts in Pondicherry: Active Case Finding Among New Smear Positive Cases

Online Journal of Health & Allied Sciences, May 30, 2016

Introduction: The risk of transmission from the index case to its contacts is more in case of sme... more Introduction: The risk of transmission from the index case to its contacts is more in case of smear positive Pulmonary Tuberculosis cases. Any delay in diagnosis and treatment increases the risk of disease transmission to their contacts. Contact screening is important for early detection of transmission of infection. Thus, active case finding of TB is needed to identify the case yield among household contacts. This study will yield the burden of Tuberculosis among the household contact. Objective: To identify the TB suspect and estimate the prevalence of TB among household contacts. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 2.5 India License

Research paper thumbnail of Original Article: An Epidemiological Study of Animal Bites and Envenomings in a Rural District of Tamilnadu, India

Aim: To find out the period prevalence of animal bites and envenomings, its epidemiological risk ... more Aim: To find out the period prevalence of animal bites and envenomings, its epidemiological risk factors and treatment seeking behaviour. Materials and methods: The present cross sectional study was conducted in the 34 villages of the field practising areas of the Rural Health Training Centre, Thiruvenainallur. Considering the prevalence of bites as 7.4%, and taking 5 members in each household with a non response of 10% the number households studied were 4150 covering a population of 18865 which was calculated using an Open EPI version (2.3) software package. Sampling frame of households was prepared and systemic random sampling method was used to select households from each village. Trained medical interns and social workers collected information on bites in the preceding one year. Data was entered and analyzed in Epi_info (3.4.3) software. Results: In this study, information of 12947 adults was included and the overall period prevalence of bites was 81.8/1000 population. The most common bite is dog bite (22.3) followed by scorpion (22.1) and centipede (17.8) per 1000 population. The dog bites are significantly higher among males, people below the poverty line, farmers and laborers. There is significantly increased risk of snake bites among people working in agriculture fields. Only 35% of the dog bite victims washed their wound with soap and water and 28% applied irritants such as ash, ink, calotropis milk etc. over the wounds. Anti-rabies vaccination was given in 60% of the dog bite victims and life saving measure of Rabies Immunoglobulins (RIGS) was given in only in 6.2%. Almost half of the bitten victims of scorpion and centipede follow traditional methods of treatment. Conclusions: Considering the high prevalence of different bites and treatment seeking behavior indicates there is a lack of awareness regarding all forms of bites in the rural community. The existing program of rabies control has to be strengthened and community awareness about different bites, its personal protective measures and treatment seeking has to be done.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of medical interns' learning of exposure to revised national tuberculosis control programme guidelines

PubMed, Oct 1, 2014

Background: As per the Medical Council of India (MCI), the posting in the Chest and TB department... more Background: As per the Medical Council of India (MCI), the posting in the Chest and TB department is elective during internship. Hence, they lack hands on exposure to various components of RNTCP programme. This gap in treating TB patients by using RNTCP guidelines may be bridged by sensitizing the interns through early exposure of medical interns to training programmes. Objective: The workshop was conducted and evaluated, 1) To know learners' immediate reaction and 2) To know its effects on their learning and practice. Methods: A series of training workshop on RNTCP guidelines was organized for Interns by the Core-committee of the State Task Force (STF), RNTCP and Department of Community Medicine, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital (SMVMCH), Puducherry, during January 2012-November 2012. A Pre and Post test self-administrated questionnaire, immediate feedback and other open-ended feedback after six months was obtained from Interns to know its effect on their clinical practice. Results: The pre and post test mean scores were highly significant (p<0.001). In the analysis of feedback, the consensus score for all the responses was above 75%. As per the responses of the feedback from interns taken after six months, the three broad categories of common responses from the manual content analysis emerged were: 1) Effect of training in patient care, 2) Acquaintance of RNTCP Guidelines, 3) Future Plan of application of lessons learned. Conclusion: This training programme has been well received by the medical interns and has now been incorporated as a regular activity for the Interns posted in the Department of Community Medicine.

Research paper thumbnail of Teaching statistics to medical undergraduates using interactive and participatory sessions

journal of advances in medical education and professionalism, Oct 1, 2013

Introduction: In India, medical undergraduates think that statistics is difficult to understand. ... more Introduction: In India, medical undergraduates think that statistics is difficult to understand. Often, it is taught just before final assessment examination using didactic lectures, with little use of medical examples and less focus on application. Hence, we prepared interactive, participatory sessions for teaching biostatistics to medical undergraduate. Methods: The sessions were delivered by a facilitator. It had clearly specified objectives and teaching learning strategies. A needs assessment was done by interviewing the students who had undergone traditional biostatistics teaching methodology. Specific learning objectives for the sessions were finalized using the Delphi technique and review of University syllabus. Two trained Community Medicine faculties designed the lesson plans 'backwards' from desired outcome to content, teaching/learning strategies, assessment and evaluation process (Outcomes-based lesson planning). Forty, third-semester (Para-clinical phase of the second year) medical undergraduates undertook these seven teaching sessions. The session followed adult learning principles and included group discussions, games and reflections. We evaluated the impact of the sessions using in-depth interviews, retrospective post-then-preself-assessment and a pre-announced written test. Results: With traditional statistics teaching methodology, students perceived it as a standalone subject and were not interested in statistics. Students who underwent the sessions commented that the sessions were enjoyable, interesting, and participatory and more than %90 of them felt they were engaged throughout the session. They also narrated various instances where they could apply the biostatistics learning. In the post-then-pre-assessment median post-session scores for all the objectives were significantly higher (p <0.050). Conclusion: Use of interactive, participatory sessions for teaching biostatistics to medical undergraduates resulted in a positive reaction and better learning. They also applied these concepts while reading textbooks, listening to lectures and during clinical postings.

Research paper thumbnail of Occupation Related Health Hazards: Online Survey among Software Engineers of South India

Indian Journal of Medical Specialities, May 3, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of An approach to integrated teaching for the subject of malnutrition

South East Asian Journal of Medical Education, Jun 30, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of Interactive Session on ‘focus group discussion’ for health professionals in India: a mixed-methods evaluation

South East Asian Journal of Medical Education, Dec 28, 2015

Objective: To design an interactive session on Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and evaluate it from ... more Objective: To design an interactive session on Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and evaluate it from the participants' view point. Methodology: Study setting was a five-day long workshop on 'Qualitative Research Methods' for health professionals, with 30 health professionals from 8 different states of India having public health, clinical and nursing backgrounds as participants. A mixed-methods design of triangulation type was utilized, where both quantitative (Likert type feedback and retro-pre survey) and qualitative (data emerging during group work) data was simultaneously collected and analyzed. After a brief sensitization on FGD guidelines, 30 participants were divided into two equal groups. Participants were given a group work on planning and running an FGD. We used 'Fishbowl' seating arrangement to take them through the FGD process and experience the role of facilitator and the role of participant. It was followed by a debrief. Content analysis of qualitative data was done and consensus scores were calculated from the feedback responses. Results and conclusion: The session on FGD was well received (weighted mean-1.4; consensus-81.5%). The post-session mean score for their perceived ability to facilitate FGD increased to 4.8 from a pre-session score of 2.1 (p=0.009). The session design helped facilitate a discussion on challenges in running an FGD, such as the influence of facilitator's anxiety, mutual coordination, note-taking and seeking information from the participants and its potential effect on data quality and validity.

Research paper thumbnail of P2-519 Epidemiology of injury in rural Pondicherry, India

Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, Aug 1, 2011

Results Although inequalities in a healthy lifestyle were found among men and women for both indi... more Results Although inequalities in a healthy lifestyle were found among men and women for both indicators, variations in their direction and magnitude for incident disease risks occurred. Diabetes incidence was inversely associated with both indicators in multivariate models, but adjustment for Body mass index substantially attenuated the associations. Middle-educated women had a lower risk for myocardial infarction (HR 0.39, 018e0.84), but a higher risk for stroke (HR 2.03, 1.07e3.83), in fully-adjusted models. Protective effects against cancer were shown for semiprofessional men and unskilled women, but not for education. Also the results of the literature search showed that different socioeconomic indicators appeared to vary in their associations to chronic disease risk. Conclusions Educational level and occupational social class varied in their influence on incident chronic diseases, but are less important predictors for disease risk in the EPIC-Potsdam study.

Research paper thumbnail of A study on the learning styles and learning approaches among medical students

National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 2017

Background: Designing of active learning strategies that promote self-directed learning, has been... more Background: Designing of active learning strategies that promote self-directed learning, has been emphasized in the directives of undergraduate medical education by the Medical Council of India. Acknowledging the diverse learning styles and learning approaches of the medical students is often an underutilized approach to improve classroom instructions. Aims and Objectives: The present study aimed to study the percentage distribution of diverse learning styles and predominant learning approach among the medical students. Materials and Methods: Self-administered visual, auditory, read/write, kinesthetic questionnaire and Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students questionnaire were distributed to 121 medical undergraduate students, to assess their learning style and learning approach, respectively. Results: Of the total 121 students, 53.8% students were unimodal learners and 46.2% were multimodal learners. Among the unimodal learners, predominant were visual learners (24.1%). There was no significant influence of gender on the learning style preferences among the medical students. Deep approach was the predominant learning approach among the medical students. The mean scores of the strategic approach were significantly higher in females compared to the male medical students. Conclusion: A successful learning results only when the teaching and assessment methods are in alignment with the student's learning preferences. Students aware of their learning style and approach may be motivated to adopt techniques that best suit their learning styles and this may result in greater educational satisfaction.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Self-Directed Learning Module and Assessment on Learning of National Health Programme by Medical Undergraduates – A Mixed Methods Evaluation

Indian Journal of Community Medicine

Research paper thumbnail of The benefits to medical undergraduates of exposure to community-based survey research

Education for Health

In India, there has been little effort to teach medical students about public health research. Fe... more In India, there has been little effort to teach medical students about public health research. Few medical institutions in India and nearby Nepal formally offer exposure to field surveys or projects to medical undergraduates as a part of their training in community medicine. Little is known about the effect of such activity on students or how they apply what they learn. We implemented a systematic, hands-on experience in the public health research process with medical undergraduates in Puducherry, India to evaluate its effect on students. Two groups, each with 30 third-semester (second year) medical undergraduates, participated in a 15-day, two and one-half hours per day course on the public health research process. At the end of course, a retrospective post-then-pre self-assessment of students skills was obtained. One year later, we resurveyed students with open-ended questions to assess their impressions of what they had gained from learning about the field survey process. Out of the 60 students, 55 (91.6%) provided complete responses for analysis. The mean post-exposure Likert scores of students self-perceived skills and knowledge were significantly higher than their retrospective assessments of themselves prior to the course in areas such as being aware of the public health research process, their skills in interviewing and communicating with local villagers, and ability to collect, enter via computer and present gathered information (p &lt; 0.005). Six categories of common responses, all positive, emerged from the open-ended feedback: 1) ability to apply learning to research work, 2) communication skills, 3) awareness about local epidemiology of injury, 4) awareness of local first-aid practices and health care seeking behavior, 5) awareness of survey techniques, and 6) anticipated application of this learning in the future and its effect on the student. Overall, the initial implementation of a program exposing medical students to the community survey research process was well received. Early exposure of medical undergraduates to the survey research process appears to help them be better clinicians, who are able to understand and use field level data.

Research paper thumbnail of ‘Learning from home’: role of e-learning methodologies and tools during novel coronavirus pandemic outbreak

Postgraduate Medical Journal, 2020

Background During the crucial time of coronavirus pandemic, education is being remodelled: openin... more Background During the crucial time of coronavirus pandemic, education is being remodelled: opening the doors of electronic learning (e-learning). The review emphasises on the various e-learning methods that can be used in the current scenario. Methods The review was based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines on databases, namely, PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane. Out of 1524 identified articles, after the process of screening and based on the eligibility criteria, 45 full-text articles were reviewed. Results Though there are many caveats on the path of successful implementation this is the right time that we step towards e-learning. The article discusses the methods and tools in e-learning that can modify the traditional ways of content delivery, record maintenance, assessment and feedback. Conclusion During the period of ‘planet arrest’, when the whole world is locked down with the motive of social distancing, let us stay conn...

Research paper thumbnail of Identifying and Addressing Factors Contributing to Pretreatment Loss to Follow-Up of Tuberculosis Patients Referred for Treatment from Medical Colleges in Pondicherry: An Implementation Research

Indian Journal of Community Medicine : Official Publication of Indian Association of Preventive & Social Medicine, 2020

Background: In India, there is no feedback regarding 34% of tuberculosis (TB) patients diagnosed ... more Background: In India, there is no feedback regarding 34% of tuberculosis (TB) patients diagnosed and referred from medical colleges for treatment to peripheral health institutions (PHIs). Objectives: The aim of this study is to measure the effectiveness of the new intervention package, developed based on qualitative study in reducing pretreatment loss to follow-up (PTLFU) of all TB patients diagnosed and referred for treatment from medical colleges to PHIs. Materials and Methods: An intervention was developed based on the findings of in depth-interviews conducted among different stakeholders such as TB patients who did/did not report, service providers working in four medical colleges in Pondicherry. Intervention consisting of phone calls, home visits, etc., was implemented for a period of 6 months. The baseline and endline proportion of TB patients for whom feedback received was determined from the available records (Revised National TB Control Program State Task Force Quarterly re...

Research paper thumbnail of ‘Student centered approach’ in implementing community based active case finding for tuberculosis in rural, Puducherry – A qualitative evaluation

Indian Journal of Tuberculosis, 2021

Abstract Background As a part of Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) the competencies relat... more Abstract Background As a part of Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) the competencies related to Communication skills, survey technique, can be improvised by exposing the students in community based Active Case Finding for Tuberculosis which helps in sustaining the activity. Methods Community based house-to-house survey using “Student centered approach” was carried out to identify Presumptive TB cases as per the program definition among fourteen villages covered by Thirubhuvanai, Primary Health Centre. The team comprised of trained MBBS student, medical interns supervised by Post graduates, Medical social workers posted at the Department of Community Medicine, of a medical college, Puducherry. After training Mobile based application (Epicollect5) was used for survey. Feedback from students were obtained to explore their experience from ACF. Free listing and pile sorting was done among interns to explore their experience on Epicollect using Visual Anthropic software. Results The major learning of the medical students from ACF activities were communication skills, rapport building with the community people, Screening for TB and their problem. Free listing identified 14 salient variables depending on the cut-off value of 0.083 (Smith's Salience Score) and subjected to pile sorting. Cognitive map identified their experiences into three categories namely knowledge on TB screening, uses of Epicollect and paper-based questionnaire. Totally 19,134 households were screened, among them 77 presumptive TB cases were identified, three positive pulmonary TB cases were detected and linked to TB care pathway. Conclusion “Student centered approach” proved to be effective strategy in ACF for TB from student's reflection. This rigorous ACF outreach activity shares dual benefits individual and community level benefit and also programme level benefits. Implementing this approach of involving MBBS students in ACF activity was successful and it is feasible to continue every year propounded by National TB Elimination Program (NTEP) guidelines.

Research paper thumbnail of Learning experience of undergraduate medical students during ‘model preparation’ of physiological concepts

Korean Journal of Medical Education, 2018

Learning physiological concepts and their practical applications in the appropriate contexts rema... more Learning physiological concepts and their practical applications in the appropriate contexts remains a great challenge for undergraduate medical students. Hence the present study aimed to analyze the learning experience of undergraduate medical students during an active learning process of 'preparation of models' depicting physiological concepts. Methods: A total of 13 groups, involving 55 undergraduate medical students with three to five individuals in each group, were involved in model preparation. A total of 13 models were exhibited by the students. The students shared their learning experiences as responses to an open-ended questionnaire. The students' responses were analyzed and generalized comments were generated. Results: Analysis of the results showed that the act of 'model preparation' improved concept understanding, retention of knowledge, analytical skills, and referral habits. Further, the process of 'model preparation' could satisfy all types of sensory modality learners. Conclusion: This novel active method of learning could be highly significant in students' understanding and learning physiology concepts. This approach could be incorporated in the traditional instructor-centered undergraduate medical curriculum as a way to innovate it.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of HIV seropositivity among the patients attending tertiary care hospital at Puducherry, India

International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2016

Background: HIV/AIDS has been globally increasing since its first identification and reached 36.9... more Background: HIV/AIDS has been globally increasing since its first identification and reached 36.9 million by the end of 2014. It is more prevalent in underdeveloped countries. India with about 2.1 million HIV/AIDS affected people is placed third on the table followed by South Africa and Nigeria. In the present study, we aim to report the prevalence of HIV/AIDS among the patients attending our hospital in and around Puducherry, India. Methods: A total of 18903 patients attending various departments of our hospital from November 2012 to October 2015 were included in this study. HIV screening was done by rapid card test and ELISA for the detection of antibodies against HIV. Results: Out of the total study population, 259 (1.37%) were positive for HIV/AIDS. An increasing prevalence was observed in each successive year of our study. Male (1.94%) population was predominantly affected by HIV/AIDS than the females (0.90%) and is more prevalent in the 41-50 year age group. Conclusions: Continuous monitoring, testing and counseling for HIV/AIDS would help to keep the disease under control. Special awareness and education programs are to be conducted in areas in which an increasing prevalence of HIV/AIDS is reported.

Research paper thumbnail of An exploratory mixed method study on the follow up status and quality of life among recurrent tuberculosis patients in South India

Indian Journal of Tuberculosis, 2020

Research paper thumbnail of Effectiveness of ayurvedic formulation, NAOQ19 along with standard care in the treatment of mild-moderate COVID-19 patients: A double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicentric trial

Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine

Research paper thumbnail of How Does Seating Arrangement Matter While Teaching in Small Groups

Online Journal of Health & Allied Sciences, May 15, 2014

A circular seating arrangement is best suited for small group discussions.

Research paper thumbnail of Health seeking behavior and reasons for “patient‐related” diagnostic delay among pulmonary tuberculosis suspects attending designated microscopy centre of medical college in rural Puducherry

International Journal of Community Medicine and Public Health, Mar 28, 2017

Background: The main strategy of modern TB control is early detection and treatment of sources of... more Background: The main strategy of modern TB control is early detection and treatment of sources of infection to reduce the duration of infectiousness. Delay in diagnosis has health provider factors and client factors. Health seeking behavior and reasons for TB diagnostic delay is important and which is one of the agenda for operational research under Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP). Methods: The present cross sectional study was conducted among 200 tuberculosis suspects attending the Designated Microscopy centre (DMC) of SMVMCH for a period of 2 months. Data was collected using a pre-designed questionnaire including sociodemographic details, health seeking behaviour, treatment delay and reasons for delay. Collected data was entered and analyzed in EPI_INFO (3.4.3). Descriptive statistics and significant association was established by the use of odd's ratio with 95% confidence interval. Results: Among the study subjects most of them were between the age group of 15 to 60 years and majority of them were male. Symptoms about tuberculosis was known only to 40(20%) of the suspects and 85(42.5%) accepted that tuberculosis is a curable disease. Among the various factors leading to patient related diagnostic delay age, marital status and multiple symptoms shows significant association. The most common reason for the delay is not aware of the severity of the symptoms 126(63%). Conclusions: There is poor knowledge about tuberculosis, its modes of spread and symptoms among Tb suspects. Patient related delays also common among them which warrant need for public health interventions to improve it.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of Tuberculosis among Household Contacts in Pondicherry: Active Case Finding Among New Smear Positive Cases

Online Journal of Health & Allied Sciences, May 30, 2016

Introduction: The risk of transmission from the index case to its contacts is more in case of sme... more Introduction: The risk of transmission from the index case to its contacts is more in case of smear positive Pulmonary Tuberculosis cases. Any delay in diagnosis and treatment increases the risk of disease transmission to their contacts. Contact screening is important for early detection of transmission of infection. Thus, active case finding of TB is needed to identify the case yield among household contacts. This study will yield the burden of Tuberculosis among the household contact. Objective: To identify the TB suspect and estimate the prevalence of TB among household contacts. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 2.5 India License

Research paper thumbnail of Original Article: An Epidemiological Study of Animal Bites and Envenomings in a Rural District of Tamilnadu, India

Aim: To find out the period prevalence of animal bites and envenomings, its epidemiological risk ... more Aim: To find out the period prevalence of animal bites and envenomings, its epidemiological risk factors and treatment seeking behaviour. Materials and methods: The present cross sectional study was conducted in the 34 villages of the field practising areas of the Rural Health Training Centre, Thiruvenainallur. Considering the prevalence of bites as 7.4%, and taking 5 members in each household with a non response of 10% the number households studied were 4150 covering a population of 18865 which was calculated using an Open EPI version (2.3) software package. Sampling frame of households was prepared and systemic random sampling method was used to select households from each village. Trained medical interns and social workers collected information on bites in the preceding one year. Data was entered and analyzed in Epi_info (3.4.3) software. Results: In this study, information of 12947 adults was included and the overall period prevalence of bites was 81.8/1000 population. The most common bite is dog bite (22.3) followed by scorpion (22.1) and centipede (17.8) per 1000 population. The dog bites are significantly higher among males, people below the poverty line, farmers and laborers. There is significantly increased risk of snake bites among people working in agriculture fields. Only 35% of the dog bite victims washed their wound with soap and water and 28% applied irritants such as ash, ink, calotropis milk etc. over the wounds. Anti-rabies vaccination was given in 60% of the dog bite victims and life saving measure of Rabies Immunoglobulins (RIGS) was given in only in 6.2%. Almost half of the bitten victims of scorpion and centipede follow traditional methods of treatment. Conclusions: Considering the high prevalence of different bites and treatment seeking behavior indicates there is a lack of awareness regarding all forms of bites in the rural community. The existing program of rabies control has to be strengthened and community awareness about different bites, its personal protective measures and treatment seeking has to be done.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of medical interns' learning of exposure to revised national tuberculosis control programme guidelines

PubMed, Oct 1, 2014

Background: As per the Medical Council of India (MCI), the posting in the Chest and TB department... more Background: As per the Medical Council of India (MCI), the posting in the Chest and TB department is elective during internship. Hence, they lack hands on exposure to various components of RNTCP programme. This gap in treating TB patients by using RNTCP guidelines may be bridged by sensitizing the interns through early exposure of medical interns to training programmes. Objective: The workshop was conducted and evaluated, 1) To know learners' immediate reaction and 2) To know its effects on their learning and practice. Methods: A series of training workshop on RNTCP guidelines was organized for Interns by the Core-committee of the State Task Force (STF), RNTCP and Department of Community Medicine, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital (SMVMCH), Puducherry, during January 2012-November 2012. A Pre and Post test self-administrated questionnaire, immediate feedback and other open-ended feedback after six months was obtained from Interns to know its effect on their clinical practice. Results: The pre and post test mean scores were highly significant (p<0.001). In the analysis of feedback, the consensus score for all the responses was above 75%. As per the responses of the feedback from interns taken after six months, the three broad categories of common responses from the manual content analysis emerged were: 1) Effect of training in patient care, 2) Acquaintance of RNTCP Guidelines, 3) Future Plan of application of lessons learned. Conclusion: This training programme has been well received by the medical interns and has now been incorporated as a regular activity for the Interns posted in the Department of Community Medicine.

Research paper thumbnail of Teaching statistics to medical undergraduates using interactive and participatory sessions

journal of advances in medical education and professionalism, Oct 1, 2013

Introduction: In India, medical undergraduates think that statistics is difficult to understand. ... more Introduction: In India, medical undergraduates think that statistics is difficult to understand. Often, it is taught just before final assessment examination using didactic lectures, with little use of medical examples and less focus on application. Hence, we prepared interactive, participatory sessions for teaching biostatistics to medical undergraduate. Methods: The sessions were delivered by a facilitator. It had clearly specified objectives and teaching learning strategies. A needs assessment was done by interviewing the students who had undergone traditional biostatistics teaching methodology. Specific learning objectives for the sessions were finalized using the Delphi technique and review of University syllabus. Two trained Community Medicine faculties designed the lesson plans 'backwards' from desired outcome to content, teaching/learning strategies, assessment and evaluation process (Outcomes-based lesson planning). Forty, third-semester (Para-clinical phase of the second year) medical undergraduates undertook these seven teaching sessions. The session followed adult learning principles and included group discussions, games and reflections. We evaluated the impact of the sessions using in-depth interviews, retrospective post-then-preself-assessment and a pre-announced written test. Results: With traditional statistics teaching methodology, students perceived it as a standalone subject and were not interested in statistics. Students who underwent the sessions commented that the sessions were enjoyable, interesting, and participatory and more than %90 of them felt they were engaged throughout the session. They also narrated various instances where they could apply the biostatistics learning. In the post-then-pre-assessment median post-session scores for all the objectives were significantly higher (p <0.050). Conclusion: Use of interactive, participatory sessions for teaching biostatistics to medical undergraduates resulted in a positive reaction and better learning. They also applied these concepts while reading textbooks, listening to lectures and during clinical postings.

Research paper thumbnail of Occupation Related Health Hazards: Online Survey among Software Engineers of South India

Indian Journal of Medical Specialities, May 3, 2011

Research paper thumbnail of An approach to integrated teaching for the subject of malnutrition

South East Asian Journal of Medical Education, Jun 30, 2013

Research paper thumbnail of Interactive Session on ‘focus group discussion’ for health professionals in India: a mixed-methods evaluation

South East Asian Journal of Medical Education, Dec 28, 2015

Objective: To design an interactive session on Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and evaluate it from ... more Objective: To design an interactive session on Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and evaluate it from the participants' view point. Methodology: Study setting was a five-day long workshop on 'Qualitative Research Methods' for health professionals, with 30 health professionals from 8 different states of India having public health, clinical and nursing backgrounds as participants. A mixed-methods design of triangulation type was utilized, where both quantitative (Likert type feedback and retro-pre survey) and qualitative (data emerging during group work) data was simultaneously collected and analyzed. After a brief sensitization on FGD guidelines, 30 participants were divided into two equal groups. Participants were given a group work on planning and running an FGD. We used 'Fishbowl' seating arrangement to take them through the FGD process and experience the role of facilitator and the role of participant. It was followed by a debrief. Content analysis of qualitative data was done and consensus scores were calculated from the feedback responses. Results and conclusion: The session on FGD was well received (weighted mean-1.4; consensus-81.5%). The post-session mean score for their perceived ability to facilitate FGD increased to 4.8 from a pre-session score of 2.1 (p=0.009). The session design helped facilitate a discussion on challenges in running an FGD, such as the influence of facilitator's anxiety, mutual coordination, note-taking and seeking information from the participants and its potential effect on data quality and validity.

Research paper thumbnail of P2-519 Epidemiology of injury in rural Pondicherry, India

Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, Aug 1, 2011

Results Although inequalities in a healthy lifestyle were found among men and women for both indi... more Results Although inequalities in a healthy lifestyle were found among men and women for both indicators, variations in their direction and magnitude for incident disease risks occurred. Diabetes incidence was inversely associated with both indicators in multivariate models, but adjustment for Body mass index substantially attenuated the associations. Middle-educated women had a lower risk for myocardial infarction (HR 0.39, 018e0.84), but a higher risk for stroke (HR 2.03, 1.07e3.83), in fully-adjusted models. Protective effects against cancer were shown for semiprofessional men and unskilled women, but not for education. Also the results of the literature search showed that different socioeconomic indicators appeared to vary in their associations to chronic disease risk. Conclusions Educational level and occupational social class varied in their influence on incident chronic diseases, but are less important predictors for disease risk in the EPIC-Potsdam study.

Research paper thumbnail of A study on the learning styles and learning approaches among medical students

National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology, 2017

Background: Designing of active learning strategies that promote self-directed learning, has been... more Background: Designing of active learning strategies that promote self-directed learning, has been emphasized in the directives of undergraduate medical education by the Medical Council of India. Acknowledging the diverse learning styles and learning approaches of the medical students is often an underutilized approach to improve classroom instructions. Aims and Objectives: The present study aimed to study the percentage distribution of diverse learning styles and predominant learning approach among the medical students. Materials and Methods: Self-administered visual, auditory, read/write, kinesthetic questionnaire and Approaches and Study Skills Inventory for Students questionnaire were distributed to 121 medical undergraduate students, to assess their learning style and learning approach, respectively. Results: Of the total 121 students, 53.8% students were unimodal learners and 46.2% were multimodal learners. Among the unimodal learners, predominant were visual learners (24.1%). There was no significant influence of gender on the learning style preferences among the medical students. Deep approach was the predominant learning approach among the medical students. The mean scores of the strategic approach were significantly higher in females compared to the male medical students. Conclusion: A successful learning results only when the teaching and assessment methods are in alignment with the student's learning preferences. Students aware of their learning style and approach may be motivated to adopt techniques that best suit their learning styles and this may result in greater educational satisfaction.

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Self-Directed Learning Module and Assessment on Learning of National Health Programme by Medical Undergraduates – A Mixed Methods Evaluation

Indian Journal of Community Medicine

Research paper thumbnail of The benefits to medical undergraduates of exposure to community-based survey research

Education for Health

In India, there has been little effort to teach medical students about public health research. Fe... more In India, there has been little effort to teach medical students about public health research. Few medical institutions in India and nearby Nepal formally offer exposure to field surveys or projects to medical undergraduates as a part of their training in community medicine. Little is known about the effect of such activity on students or how they apply what they learn. We implemented a systematic, hands-on experience in the public health research process with medical undergraduates in Puducherry, India to evaluate its effect on students. Two groups, each with 30 third-semester (second year) medical undergraduates, participated in a 15-day, two and one-half hours per day course on the public health research process. At the end of course, a retrospective post-then-pre self-assessment of students skills was obtained. One year later, we resurveyed students with open-ended questions to assess their impressions of what they had gained from learning about the field survey process. Out of the 60 students, 55 (91.6%) provided complete responses for analysis. The mean post-exposure Likert scores of students self-perceived skills and knowledge were significantly higher than their retrospective assessments of themselves prior to the course in areas such as being aware of the public health research process, their skills in interviewing and communicating with local villagers, and ability to collect, enter via computer and present gathered information (p &lt; 0.005). Six categories of common responses, all positive, emerged from the open-ended feedback: 1) ability to apply learning to research work, 2) communication skills, 3) awareness about local epidemiology of injury, 4) awareness of local first-aid practices and health care seeking behavior, 5) awareness of survey techniques, and 6) anticipated application of this learning in the future and its effect on the student. Overall, the initial implementation of a program exposing medical students to the community survey research process was well received. Early exposure of medical undergraduates to the survey research process appears to help them be better clinicians, who are able to understand and use field level data.

Research paper thumbnail of ‘Learning from home’: role of e-learning methodologies and tools during novel coronavirus pandemic outbreak

Postgraduate Medical Journal, 2020

Background During the crucial time of coronavirus pandemic, education is being remodelled: openin... more Background During the crucial time of coronavirus pandemic, education is being remodelled: opening the doors of electronic learning (e-learning). The review emphasises on the various e-learning methods that can be used in the current scenario. Methods The review was based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines on databases, namely, PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane. Out of 1524 identified articles, after the process of screening and based on the eligibility criteria, 45 full-text articles were reviewed. Results Though there are many caveats on the path of successful implementation this is the right time that we step towards e-learning. The article discusses the methods and tools in e-learning that can modify the traditional ways of content delivery, record maintenance, assessment and feedback. Conclusion During the period of ‘planet arrest’, when the whole world is locked down with the motive of social distancing, let us stay conn...

Research paper thumbnail of Identifying and Addressing Factors Contributing to Pretreatment Loss to Follow-Up of Tuberculosis Patients Referred for Treatment from Medical Colleges in Pondicherry: An Implementation Research

Indian Journal of Community Medicine : Official Publication of Indian Association of Preventive & Social Medicine, 2020

Background: In India, there is no feedback regarding 34% of tuberculosis (TB) patients diagnosed ... more Background: In India, there is no feedback regarding 34% of tuberculosis (TB) patients diagnosed and referred from medical colleges for treatment to peripheral health institutions (PHIs). Objectives: The aim of this study is to measure the effectiveness of the new intervention package, developed based on qualitative study in reducing pretreatment loss to follow-up (PTLFU) of all TB patients diagnosed and referred for treatment from medical colleges to PHIs. Materials and Methods: An intervention was developed based on the findings of in depth-interviews conducted among different stakeholders such as TB patients who did/did not report, service providers working in four medical colleges in Pondicherry. Intervention consisting of phone calls, home visits, etc., was implemented for a period of 6 months. The baseline and endline proportion of TB patients for whom feedback received was determined from the available records (Revised National TB Control Program State Task Force Quarterly re...

Research paper thumbnail of ‘Student centered approach’ in implementing community based active case finding for tuberculosis in rural, Puducherry – A qualitative evaluation

Indian Journal of Tuberculosis, 2021

Abstract Background As a part of Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) the competencies relat... more Abstract Background As a part of Competency Based Medical Education (CBME) the competencies related to Communication skills, survey technique, can be improvised by exposing the students in community based Active Case Finding for Tuberculosis which helps in sustaining the activity. Methods Community based house-to-house survey using “Student centered approach” was carried out to identify Presumptive TB cases as per the program definition among fourteen villages covered by Thirubhuvanai, Primary Health Centre. The team comprised of trained MBBS student, medical interns supervised by Post graduates, Medical social workers posted at the Department of Community Medicine, of a medical college, Puducherry. After training Mobile based application (Epicollect5) was used for survey. Feedback from students were obtained to explore their experience from ACF. Free listing and pile sorting was done among interns to explore their experience on Epicollect using Visual Anthropic software. Results The major learning of the medical students from ACF activities were communication skills, rapport building with the community people, Screening for TB and their problem. Free listing identified 14 salient variables depending on the cut-off value of 0.083 (Smith's Salience Score) and subjected to pile sorting. Cognitive map identified their experiences into three categories namely knowledge on TB screening, uses of Epicollect and paper-based questionnaire. Totally 19,134 households were screened, among them 77 presumptive TB cases were identified, three positive pulmonary TB cases were detected and linked to TB care pathway. Conclusion “Student centered approach” proved to be effective strategy in ACF for TB from student's reflection. This rigorous ACF outreach activity shares dual benefits individual and community level benefit and also programme level benefits. Implementing this approach of involving MBBS students in ACF activity was successful and it is feasible to continue every year propounded by National TB Elimination Program (NTEP) guidelines.

Research paper thumbnail of Learning experience of undergraduate medical students during ‘model preparation’ of physiological concepts

Korean Journal of Medical Education, 2018

Learning physiological concepts and their practical applications in the appropriate contexts rema... more Learning physiological concepts and their practical applications in the appropriate contexts remains a great challenge for undergraduate medical students. Hence the present study aimed to analyze the learning experience of undergraduate medical students during an active learning process of 'preparation of models' depicting physiological concepts. Methods: A total of 13 groups, involving 55 undergraduate medical students with three to five individuals in each group, were involved in model preparation. A total of 13 models were exhibited by the students. The students shared their learning experiences as responses to an open-ended questionnaire. The students' responses were analyzed and generalized comments were generated. Results: Analysis of the results showed that the act of 'model preparation' improved concept understanding, retention of knowledge, analytical skills, and referral habits. Further, the process of 'model preparation' could satisfy all types of sensory modality learners. Conclusion: This novel active method of learning could be highly significant in students' understanding and learning physiology concepts. This approach could be incorporated in the traditional instructor-centered undergraduate medical curriculum as a way to innovate it.

Research paper thumbnail of Prevalence of HIV seropositivity among the patients attending tertiary care hospital at Puducherry, India

International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, 2016

Background: HIV/AIDS has been globally increasing since its first identification and reached 36.9... more Background: HIV/AIDS has been globally increasing since its first identification and reached 36.9 million by the end of 2014. It is more prevalent in underdeveloped countries. India with about 2.1 million HIV/AIDS affected people is placed third on the table followed by South Africa and Nigeria. In the present study, we aim to report the prevalence of HIV/AIDS among the patients attending our hospital in and around Puducherry, India. Methods: A total of 18903 patients attending various departments of our hospital from November 2012 to October 2015 were included in this study. HIV screening was done by rapid card test and ELISA for the detection of antibodies against HIV. Results: Out of the total study population, 259 (1.37%) were positive for HIV/AIDS. An increasing prevalence was observed in each successive year of our study. Male (1.94%) population was predominantly affected by HIV/AIDS than the females (0.90%) and is more prevalent in the 41-50 year age group. Conclusions: Continuous monitoring, testing and counseling for HIV/AIDS would help to keep the disease under control. Special awareness and education programs are to be conducted in areas in which an increasing prevalence of HIV/AIDS is reported.

Research paper thumbnail of An exploratory mixed method study on the follow up status and quality of life among recurrent tuberculosis patients in South India

Indian Journal of Tuberculosis, 2020