http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1 Wed, 08 Jul 2026 08:08:36 GMT 2026-07-08T08:08:36Z http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1116 Title: Ischemic Stroke and Prevalence of Atrial Fibrillation at El-Mak Nimer Hospital, Shendi, Sudan: A Cross-Sectional Study Authors: Imam Awadelkareim Imam, Motwakil; Mojahed Babker Mohamed Saeid; Samah Alameen G Wageealah; Fatima Elamin A Elhaj; Azahir Yousif M Mansur; Tasneem Elteyeb Hadaby Elameen; and Ghanem Mohammed Mahjaf Abstract: Background: Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is one of the most common cardiac arrhythmias and is considered an important risk factor for Ischemic Stroke, leading to increased morbidity, mortality, and poor clinical outcomes. Early detection of AF in stroke patients may significantly improve prevention strategies and clinical outcomes. Objective: To determine the prevalence of atrial fibrillation among patients diagnosed with ischemic stroke and to assess associated clinical characteristics, comorbidities, and anticoagulant use. Methods: A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at El-Mak Nimer Hospital from June 6, 2022, to December 6, 2022. A total of 100 patients diagnosed with ischemic stroke were enrolled. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, medical records review, and electrocardiographic findings. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics. Results: Among the 100 ischemic stroke patients, 27% had atrial fibrillation, including 14% previously diagnosed cases and 13% newly detected cases. AF was more common among females (74.0%) than males (26.0%). The prevalence increased significantly with age, with 59.0% of AF cases occurring in patients older than 75 years. Major associated comorbidities included hypertension (44%), diabetes mellitus (55%), coronary heart disease (62%), and hypercholesterolemia (62%). Most AF patients were receiving anticoagulant therapy, with 64.3% using novel oral anticoagulants and 35.7% using warfarin. Conclusion: The prevalence of atrial fibrillation among ischemic stroke patients was relatively high. Advanced age, female sex, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular comorbidities were strongly associated with AF. Routine screening for AF among stroke patients is essential for early diagnosis and prevention of recurrent stroke. Wed, 24 Jun 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1116 2026-06-24T00:00:00Z http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1115 Title: Quality of Life Aspects Associated with Diabetic Foot Ulcer Patients at Alzomra Medical Center, Shendi Teaching Hospital, and Almak Nimir Hospitals (March to August 2024) Authors: Imam Awadelkareim Imam, Motwakil Abstract: Background: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, leading to high morbidity, frequent hospitalizations, and a significant decline in quality of life (QoL). This issue is particularly pronounced in resource-limited settings like Sudan, where underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure complicates effective management. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the QoL of patients with DFUs and identify factors influencing QoL in the physical, psychological, social, and environmental domains among patients treated at Alzomra Medical Center, Almak-Nimir Hospital, and Shendi Teaching Hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to August 2024 at Alzomra Medical Center, Almak-Nimir, and Shendi Teaching Hospital, involving 102 diabetic foot ulcer patients. Data were gathered using validated QoL assessment tools, including the Diabetes Foot Ulcer Scale (DFS) and the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Additional data on demographics, duration of diabetes, wound characteristics, and treatment regimens were collected. Statistical analysis explored correlations between QoL outcomes and factors such as gender, age, wound severity, and the hospital of treatment. Results: Most patients were male (71%) and aged between 41–60 years, with Type 2 diabetes being the predominant form (81%). A majority of patients had lived with diabetes for less than 10 years. Pain interference, activity limitations, and frustration were the primary factors negatively impacting QoL. The domains most affected were physical functioning and psychological well-being, with mobility limitations and pain playing significant roles. Despite these challenges, no statistically significant differences were observed in QoL outcomes based on gender, age, or hospital of treatment, indicating consistent care across facilities. Conclusion: Diabetic foot ulcers significantly impair quality of life, particularly in physical and psychological domains. Pain management, improved mobility support, and psychological counseling are essential to enhancing patient outcomes. The consistent quality of care provided at Alzomra Medical Center, Almak-Nimir, and Shendi Teaching Hospital highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing DFUs in resource-limited settings. Future research should concentrate on long-term strategies for recurrence prevention and overall patient well-being improvement. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1115 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1114 Title: Assessment of Antibiotics Usage Patterns and Practices within Elmiek Nimer University Regional Hospital in the period from January 2024 to April 2024 Authors: Imam Awadelkareim Imam, Motwakil Abstract: Introduction: Antibiotics are vital for treating bacterial infections, but misuse has contributed to antibiotic resistance, a global health threat. Understanding healthcare professionals' prescribing practices and adherence to guidelines is essential for effective antibiotic stewardship. Objective: This study assesses healthcare professionals' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding antibiotic use at Elmiek Nimer University Regional Hospital, identifying barriers to guideline adherence. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire among healthcare professionals. It covered demographics, knowledge of guidelines, prescribing practices, participation in stewardship programs, and perceived barriers. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. Results: Most participants were registrars (41.5%) and medical officers (34.1%), with 35.7% having 5-10 years of experience. Despite moderate to high self-rated antibiotic knowledge (60.2% moderate, 40% high), 78% were unaware of hospital guidelines. 77.2% frequently prescribed antibiotics, guided mainly by clinical symptoms (85.4%) and lab results (69.1%). Only 15.4% had engaged in stewardship programs, finding them effective. Barriers included financial constraints (47.2%) and medication-related issues (46.3%). Conclusion: There are gaps in guideline awareness and adherence, even with moderate knowledge of antibiotics. Enhanced stewardship programs, targeted training, and hospital-specific guidelines are necessary to curb antibiotic resistance. Addressing financial and medication-related barriers is crucial for better adherence. Recommendations: Implement comprehensive stewardship programs with tailored training. Collaborate with policymakers and pharmaceutical providers to alleviate financial and medication barriers. Develop and disseminate hospital-specific guidelines for consistent practice. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1114 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1113 Title: Chronic Kidney Disease Secondary to Urolithiasis in Sudan: Clinical Presentation, Risk Factors and Renal Outcome Authors: Imam Awadelkareim Imam, Motwakil; Abdelgeyoom Ahmed Elshareef, Awadelkaream; Mohammed Salih Korena, Zohair; Khalid Noor, Sufian; Ahmed.Ali Obeid, Isam; Mahjoub Awad Ali, Ahmed Abstract: Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major global health burden. Although urolithiasis contributes to a small proportion of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) worldwide, delayed diagnosis and limited access to urological care may increase its impact in low-resource settings. Objective: To assess the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of patients with CKD secondary to renal stone disease in Khartoum State, Sudan. Methods: A prospective, multicentre, hospital-based cohort study was conducted between April 2016 and April 2018. Adult patients with symptomatic urolithiasis for more than three months and evidence of renal impairment were enrolled. Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was assessed at baseline and six weeks after intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Results: A total of 215 patients were included; 64.7% were male, with the majority aged 40–59 years. Most patients originated from regions lacking specialized urological services. Delayed treatment (>3 months after diagnosis) was observed in 79.5%. Emergency intervention was required in 42.3% of cases. Complete stone clearance was achieved in 80%. At six-week follow-up, 51.6% had normal eGFR, while 8.5% progressed to ESRD. Nephrectomy was performed in 10.7%, and mortality was 1.9%. Emergency intervention and incomplete stone clearance were significantly associated with poor renal outcomes. Conclusion: Renal stone disease is an important and potentially preventable cause of CKD in Sudan. Delayed presentation and emergency intervention are associated with worse outcomes, while complete stone clearance significantly improves renal recovery. Strengthening early referral and urological services may reduce progression to ESRD. Keywords: Chronic Kidney Disease, Renal Stone, estimated GFR, Sudan. Sun, 31 May 2026 00:00:00 GMT http://http://repository.ush.edu.sd:8080/jspui/handle/123456789/1113 2026-05-31T00:00:00Z