Project type: Intervention study
Project design: Cluster Randomized Control Trial
Duration: June 2017 – September 2018
Project location(s): Nasarawa state
Project description:
The study was designed as a cluster randomized control trial and it aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and operational feasibility of the reminder bracelets at improving timeliness, completion and vaccine coverage in rural and urban settings. The unit of randomization and analysis were the health facilities which were randomly assigned into intervention (with bracelet) and control (standard practice).
We trained health workers and mothers on the use of the bracelets and data recording during the implementation period. Mother-infant pairs were recruited and enrolled at birth and during immunization sessions at the health facilities over a period of 3 months. We conducted monthly monitoring visits to health facilities to collect immunization data on study participants, assure adherence to study protocol and conduct quality checks.
The project was evaluated using a mixed method approach and the outcomes assessed were timeliness, completeness and coverage of vaccination; data on these was collected during baseline and end-line surveys. Qualitative data was obtained through in-depth interviews and discussions with mothers/caregivers, community/religious leaders, members of community groups and health workers administering the bracelets and by participant observation of the process of administering and using the bracelet. The qualitative data was used to assess the perception and attitude of caregivers, community members and service providers towards the bracelet use and vaccination pre and post – intervention. Quantitative data was also obtained from caregivers in the communities during the surveys using questionnaires to assess baseline vaccination coverage of the study area and perception of caregivers toward the Alma Sana bracelet and vaccination. Finally, vaccination records for the communities were obtained at the health facilities pre- and post- intervention to assess the timeliness of BCG, DPT and Measles vaccinations.
Project themes/keywords: Childhood vaccination, Routine Immunization, Vaccine Reminder Bracelet