Implementing a telehealth prehabilitation education session for patients preparing for major cancer surgery

Background: Prehabilitation services assist patients in preparing for surgery, yet access to these services are often limited by geographical factors. Enabling rural and regional patients to access specialist surgical prehabilitation support with the use of telehealth technology has the potential to overcome health inequities and improve post-operative outcomes. Aim: To evaluate the current and likely future impact of a telehealth preoperative education package for patients preparing for major abdominal cancer surgery. Methods: A telehealth alternative to a hospital based pre-operative education session was developed and implemented at a dedicated cancer hospital. Adult patients (≥18 years) scheduled for elective major cancer surgery were offered this telehealth alternative. Impact evaluation was conducted using the RE-AIM framework. Results: To date, 35 participants have consented to participate in the study. Thirty-one participants attended the intervention; 24 (69%) residing in rural or regional areas. Twenty-four (77%) reported that if given a choice they would prefer the online session as opposed to attending the hospital in person. The majority (97%) reported they would recommend the intervention to others preparing for surgery. Session information was recalled by all 26 participants and 77% of participants reported acting on recommendations 2 weeks after the session. Lessons learnt and recommendations for providers implementing similar programs are reported. Conclusion: Telehealth alternatives to hospital based pre-operative education are well received by patients preparing for major cancer surgery. We make seven recommendations to improve implementation. Further evaluation of implementation strategies alongside clinical effectiveness in future studies is essential

Soil and crop management practices among farmers in Kabba/Bunu local government area, Kogi state

The study examined management practices among farmers in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State. A two stage sampling technique was used in selecting the sample size. Structured questionnaires were used in collecting primary data from one hundred (100) sampled farmers in ten villages (Ohakiti, Odo-Ape, Olle-Bunu, Egbeda, Aiyetoro, Aiyede, Otu, Oke-Dayo, Okebukun and Agbadu) within the study area. Data Collected from the questionnaire were analyzed using percentage. The result from the study revealed that majority of the farmers are above the productivity age (53.8%) of 51 years. The main crops grown in the study area is yam and cassava. 45% of the respondents practice mixed cropping. Practices among farmers in the study area include; use of improved, varieties chemical weeding, planting of cover crop, use of inorganic fertilizer, live mulch and chemical method for control of pests. It is concluded that there is need for farmers to improve on the current practice in other to ensure optimal and profitable production.Keywords: Soil, Crops, Management, farmer