Trauma team members’ perceptions of the effectiveness of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A phenomenological study

Abstract

Background Trauma is a leading cause of mortality and disability in low- and middle-income countries, with Ethiopia having the highest percentage (26.7%) of fatalities per 100 000 inhabitants. The effectiveness and quality of trauma care in Addis Ababa city vary by hospital. Objective This qualitative study aimed to explore trauma team members’ perceptions of the effectiveness of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods This study used a qualitative phenomenological design to analyze trauma care team members’ perceptions of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The population included trauma team members, health-care personnel, hospital leaders and coordinators from nine hospitals. The data were collected through semi structured interviews and focus group discussions. The study used the Colaizzi approach and ATLAS.ti 23 software for data analysis, employing deductive and inductive coding methodologies to identify patterns. Memos and display matrices were generated for in-depth analysis. Results This study identified several challenges with the trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, including a lack of effective leadership, coordination, and teamwork spirit; insufficient referral connections in the trauma care system; knowledge gaps among health-care professionals; and poor organization of the emergency room and trauma center. In addition, factors such as insufficient pharmaceutical and medical equipment and ineffective ambulance services have contributed to the increased number of deaths and disabilities among trauma patients in the country. Conclusion The qualitative report highlights the gaps in Ethiopia's emergency trauma care system and recommends strategies for improvement, including clear leadership, policies, resources, communication, and continuous training.