Journal of Health Information and Librarianship
type: channel
description: Journal of Health Information and Librarianship (JoHIL) is a peer-reviewed, open-access international journal published by the Medical Library Association of Nigeria (MLA-NG). JoHIL's target audience includes librarians, information scientists, specialists, managers and educators. JoHIL is one of the foremost health information science journals in Africa.
publisher: Medical Library Association of Nigeria
language: en
publication name: Journal of Health Information and Librarianship
issn: 2408-6614
copyright: CC-BY-NC
items: Patient-Centred Health Information Resources and Services in Hospital Libraries: A Survey of Current Practices and Challenges in Nigeria
items: Food Safety Information and Hygiene Practices Among Food Handlers in Selected Hospitality Businesses in Osogbo, Nigeria
items: Influence of Mentoring Practices on Job Performance of Medical Librarians in Health Institutions in Southern Nigeria
items: Unseen Threat: Mapping the Diversity of Fungal Contaminants in Bayero University’s Library
items: Social Media Use, Sleep Quality, Mental Health and Academic Performance of Public Secondary School Students in Afijio Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria
items: Promoting Personal Hygiene and Health Awareness: The Role of Libraries in Enhancing Health Information Resources Utilisation for Community Well-Being
items: Virtual Classroom Training, Electronic Medical Records and Medical Service Delivery: Case of Resident Psychiatrists at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Nigeria
items: Digital Competence and Medical Databases Usage of Nursing Students in a Nigerian Private University
items: Impact of Social Media Usage on the Mental Health of Academic Librarians at Bayero University, Kano
items: https://johil.org/johil/article/view/72
items: ABSTRACTS OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE 14TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE MEDICAL LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA
items: The influence of social media in fuelling health-related disinformation, misinformation, false information and infodemics
items: Determining the Information-Seeking Strategies of Registered Nurses in General Hospitals of Jigawa State
items: Social media usage and applications for service delivery among medical library staff in Nigeria
items: Post-COVID-19 Evaluation of Information Systems Used in Rural Health Facilities in Delta State
items: HYBRID LIBRARY: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR MEDICAL LIBRARIES IN NIGERIA
items: ELECTRONIC RESOURCES AND MEDICAL INFORMATION PROVISION
items: USE OF HINARI DATABASE BY FACULTY STAFF OF COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, ENUGU CAMPUS
items: AVAILABILITY AND USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES IN MEDICAL LIBRARIES BY PRE CLINICAL STUDENTS IN SELECTED UNIVERSITIES IN EDO STATE
items: THE RISING TIDE OF LASSA FEVER IN NIGERIA
items: INFORMATION ACQUISITION AND EFFECTIVE PERFORMANCE OF MEDICAL DOCTORS
items: CHALLENGES OF MEDICAL LIBRARY SERVICES IN THE INFORMATION AGE
items: INFORMATION NEEDS AND SEEKING BEHAVIOUR OF NURSING STUDENTS
items: AN INVESTIGATION OF THE INFORMATION NEEDS OF LECTURERS AND STUDENTS OF COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES, BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI
items: FROM TRADITIONAL TO TECHNOLOGY – BASED MEDICAL LIBRARY SERVICES
items: NIGERIAN MEDICAL LIBRARIANSHIP IN THE 21ST CENTURY: THE RIVERS AND BRIDGES TO CROSS
items: IMPROVING ACCESS TO HEALTH INFORMATION: EMERGING ROLES FOR MEDICAL LIBRARIANS
items: CEREBROVASCULAR ACCIDENT (CVA): THE ROLE OF NURSES IN PROVISION OF INFORMATION ON ITS PREVENTION AND SELF-CARE
items: AWARENESS OF PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST VULVOVAGINAL CANDIDIASIS AMONG FEMALE STUDENTS IN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA SECONDARY SCHOOL, NSUKKA, ENUGU STATE
items: EMPOWERING PATIENTS FOR CHRONIC DISEASE SELFMANAGEMENT THROUGH ACCESS TO HEALTH INFORMATION IN NIGERIA

Patient-Centred Health Information Resources and Services in Hospital Libraries: A Survey of Current Practices and Challenges in Nigeria
type: item
description: Background: Today, it is pertinent for hospital libraries to provide health information resources and services that can empower patients who visit hospitals to make informed health decisions. However, the extent to which hospital libraries serve patients remains insufficiently investigated in Nigeria. The study surveyed the current state of health information resources and services provided to patients in Nigerian hospitals. Methods: The study is a descriptive survey. The population of the study comprised twenty-seven (27) heads of hospital libraries who are members of the Medical Library Association of Nigeria (MLA-NG). Due to the manageable size of the population, a census sampling method was employed, and a web-based questionnaire was used for data collection. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics. Results: The most common health information resources available in hospital libraries for patients are textbooks. Others are general medical reference materials and databases with consumer health information. Available services are reference, book/media lending, and internet services. The majority of the libraries surveyed are situated within the hospital premises; however, opening hours are limited to weekdays. Pamphlets, flyers, and digital marketing are used to create awareness, while insufficient funds to acquire current physical and digital information are a major challenge. Conclusion: There is a need for hospital libraries in Nigeria to improve access to information resources and services to patients by pursuing interlibrary collaborations and consortia as one of the ways of mitigating insufficient funds.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Patient-Centred
  topic: keywords
subject: Hospital libraries
  topic: keywords
subject: hospital librarians
  topic: keywords
subject: information resources
  topic: keywords
subject: information services
  topic: keywords
creator: Violet Ikolo
creator: Lucia Folasade Kolawole
creator: Onome Ekoko
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-29
publication date: 2025-12-29
starting page: 91
ending page: 106

Food Safety Information and Hygiene Practices Among Food Handlers in Selected Hospitality Businesses in Osogbo, Nigeria
type: item
description: Background: This study investigated the impact of food safety information on hygiene practices in selected hospitality businesses in Osogbo, Nigeria. The study was guided by five research questions and one null hypothesis. Method: It utilized descriptive survey design. The population comprised all the staff working in the food and beverage department in Atlantic Grand Hotel, Leisure Spring Hotel, Captain Cook, and Finger Licking, totalling 39. The sampling technique employed was Total Enumeration. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Analysis of the generated data was conducted through descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Findings indicated a high level of personal hygiene practices ( ) and a very high level of environmental hygiene practices ( ) among the food handlers. Also, there is a high level of awareness of food safety information ( ); and a high level of utilization of food safety information ( ) among food handlers. The study also established that food safety information has a positive impact on the hygiene practices of food handlers ( ). Conclusion: The study concludes that food safety information is a prerequisite for achieving an acceptable standard of hygiene practices among food handlers, as it helps them to maintain strict personal and environmental hygiene and minimize the risk of food poisoning. Among others, the study recommended that hospitality business owners and managers should provide regular training sessions for food handlers and indeed all employees on the importance of food safety and hygiene practices to keep staff informed about the latest food safety guidelines and best practices.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Uwaebuka Wisdom Madu
creator: Uwem Effiong Madu
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-29
publication date: 2025-12-29
starting page: 78
ending page: 90

Influence of Mentoring Practices on Job Performance of Medical Librarians in Health Institutions in Southern Nigeria
type: item
description: Background: Mentoring has long been recognized as an important strategy for improving job performance. However, there is limited empirical evidence on how mentoring practices influence the job performance of medical librarians in Nigeria, despite reports that their performance remains suboptimal. This study investigated the influence of mentoring practices on the job performance of medical librarians in health institutions in Southern Nigeria. Method: The study adopted a survey design. The population of the study comprised all two hundred and forty-eight (248) medical librarians in health institutions in Southern Nigeria. Data were collected using a validated structured questionnaire. The data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings revealed that the level of mentoring practices for medical librarians in health institutions in Southern Nigeria was generally high, with role modelling support being the most prevalent form. However, psychosocial support was the least provided form of mentoring. The findings also indicated that mentoring practices had a significant influence on the job performance of medical librarians in health institutions in Southern Nigeria. Conclusion: Based on the study outcome, it was concluded that mentoring practices are key factors in enhancing the job performance of medical librarians in health institutions in Southern Nigeria. Given the findings of the study, it was recommended that the library management adopt a more balanced mentoring approach that prioritises the psychological well-being of medical librarians. This can be accomplished by ensuring mentors are trained to offer a wide range of support, fostering more effective and holistic mentoring relationships, while also providing emotional and mental health support.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Mentoring practices
  topic: keywords
subject: job performance
  topic: keywords
subject: health institutions
  topic: keywords
subject: medical librarians
  topic: keywords
subject: Southern Nigeria
  topic: keywords
creator: Juliana Patrick Michael
creator: Vincent E. Unegbu
creator: R.O. Owolabi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-29
publication date: 2025-12-29
starting page: 61
ending page: 77

Unseen Threat: Mapping the Diversity of Fungal Contaminants in Bayero University’s Library
type: item
description: Background: Fungal contamination in libraries endangers both the preservation of print collections and the health of staff and users. This study investigated the prevalence, species diversity, and environmental determinants of fungal contamination in Bayero University Kano (BUK) Libraries. Method: A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, combining microbiological analysis with a staff survey. A total of 145 book swab samples and six (6) air samples (collected in both morning and afternoon) were obtained from the Circulation, Reference, and Serials sections of Bayero University Library. Environmental parameters (temperature and humidity) were measured, while a questionnaire was administered to 176 staff, of which 165 were returned (92.1% response rate).. Results: Out of 145 book samples, 79 (54.5%) tested positive for fungal contamination, with the highest load observed in the Circulation section (mean count: 9.5 ± 2.75 × 10⁵ CFU/ml). Five species were identified: Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger, Penicillium chrysogenum, and P. griseofulvum, with A. niger dominant. Indoor air samples showed significant fungal presence, particularly in the Circulation and Reference sections. Relative humidity ranged from 62%–69%, and temperatures from 27.2°C to 29.1°C, both favourable for fungal growth. Poor ventilation, dust accumulation, and overcrowded shelving were associated with higher contamination. Visible signs of biodeterioration included spot patches (68.8%), fuzzy growth (66.5%), and discoloration (45.3%). Staff reported frequent symptoms linked to fungal exposure, such as sneezing (80.3%), dry throat (70.2%), and eye irritation (66.1%). Conclusion: Fungal contamination is a major environmental and occupational health risk in BUK Libraries. Interventions such as improved ventilation, dehumidification, routine disinfection, microbial monitoring, and staff training are essential for safeguarding health and preserving library resources.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Fungi
  topic: keywords
subject: Libraries
  topic: keywords
creator: Zam'a Alhassan
creator: Lukman Ibraheem Diso
creator: Atiku Abashe Maidabino
creator: Mukthar Muhammad Dauda
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-29
publication date: 2025-12-29
starting page: 46
ending page: 60

Social Media Use, Sleep Quality, Mental Health and Academic Performance of Public Secondary School Students in Afijio Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria
type: item
description: Background: This study examined social media use, sleep quality, mental health, and academic performance of public secondary school students in Afijio LGA, Oyo State, Nigeria. Method: The study employed a descriptive research survey method. The population of the study comprised 12,450 students in 13 secondary schools in Afijio LGA, while a purposive sampling technique was used to draw 120 students from five public secondary schools. The data collected were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: The findings from the study showed that the academic performance of students in Afijio LGA is at the first two stages of the pyramid cognitive domain, that is, knowledge and comprehension. Also, students mostly use Snapchat, Facebook, Google, and TikTok for chatting, updates and information, entertainment, and academic purposes. The findings revealed further that the sleep quality of students is moderate, following the fact that most of them sleep for an average of 6 hours per day. Also, the study pressure factor, forced and emotional instability factor scores were high on the mental health check of the respondents. Conclusion: The study concluded that excessive use of social media can lead to addiction and can cause mental illness, poor academic performance, and anxiety among students. Therefore, the study recommended that school administrators should enforce all domains of academic performance to help students cope and adapt easily with the requirements of tertiary institutions, and they should be given adequate orientation on the negative effects of social media addiction, mental health, and the implications of sleeping less than the required hours by health experts.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Academic performance
  topic: keywords
subject: Cognitive domain
  topic: keywords
subject: Mental health
  topic: keywords
subject: Sleep quality
  topic: keywords
subject: Social media use
  topic: keywords
creator: Sunday Isah Kaku
creator: Taiwo Mujidat Eyinade
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-29
publication date: 2025-12-29
starting page: 29
ending page: 45

Promoting Personal Hygiene and Health Awareness: The Role of Libraries in Enhancing Health Information Resources Utilisation for Community Well-Being
type: item
description: Background: Libraries have evolved beyond information repositories to become proactive institutions in facilitating public health and behavioural change. This study examines how libraries in Oyo State, Nigeria, promote personal hygiene and health awareness among community members. Objectives: To assess the level of knowledge and awareness of personal hygiene among library users, evaluate the role of libraries in promoting hygiene and health literacy, and identify challenges affecting their contribution to community well-being. Methods: The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods. A total of 99 respondents—including library users, librarians, and health professionals—from Bowen University and Ladoke Akintola University of Technology participated. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and thematic analysis. The study was guided by Wilson’s (1996) Information-Seeking Behaviour Model and Nutbeam’s (2000) Health Literacy Framework. Results: Findings revealed a high level of knowledge of personal hygiene and health awareness among respondents. Libraries played a vital role through awareness campaigns, the provision of hygiene materials, and partnerships with health professionals. However, inadequate funding, limited digital activities, and insufficient staff training constrained optimal service delivery. Conclusion: Libraries serve as strategic platforms for promoting health literacy and behavioural change. Enhancing funding, digital infrastructure, and intersectoral collaboration will strengthen their capacity to promote personal hygiene and community well-being.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Libraries
  topic: keywords
subject: Health awareness
  topic: keywords
subject: Personal hygiene
  topic: keywords
subject: Information behaviour
  topic: keywords
subject: Health Literacy
  topic: keywords
creator: Yemisi Oluremi Oladapo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-29
publication date: 2025-12-29
starting page: 14
ending page: 28

Virtual Classroom Training, Electronic Medical Records and Medical Service Delivery: Case of Resident Psychiatrists at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Nigeria
type: item
description: Introduction: This study evaluated the influence of residency virtual classroom training and Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) on medical service delivery among psychiatry doctors in Lagos State, Nigeria. The research assessed the individual and combined effects of virtual training and EMR usage on clinical skills, patient care, and overall workflow efficiency in psychiatric practice. Methods: A cross-sectional design was adopted for the study. The population of the study comprised sixty-six (66) psychiatry resident doctors at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Yaba, who participated by completing standardized questionnaires: the Virtual Learning Effectiveness Scale (VLES) and the Professionals’ Satisfaction Questionnaire with EMRs (PSQ-EMR). The collected data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings revealed that virtual classroom training significantly improved clinical knowledge and decision-making (t = -15.30, p < .001). Similarly, EMRs were perceived to enhance efficiency and documentation quality in patient care (t = -4.76, p < .001). However, the combined use of both tools was perceived as significantly less than satisfactory in improving service delivery (t = −7.036, p < .001). Despite the noted benefits of each tool independently, integration challenges may account for the mixed perceptions of their joint impact. Conclusion: Based on the findings of the study, it was concluded that virtual classroom training and EMRs independently contribute positively to psychiatric service delivery. It is recommended that the hospital administrator should enhance the integration of virtual classroom training with EMR use through structured simulations, targeted user training, and improved technical support to fully optimize their benefits for psychiatric service delivery.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Virtual classroom
  topic: keywords
subject: electronic medical records
  topic: keywords
subject: psychiatry residency
  topic: keywords
subject: service delivery
  topic: keywords
subject: Nigeria
  topic: keywords
creator: O.T. Alalade
creator: O.A. Alalade
creator: G.A. Akinbode
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-12-29
publication date: 2025-12-29
starting page: 1
ending page: 13

Digital Competence and Medical Databases Usage of Nursing Students in a Nigerian Private University
type: item
description: Background: Medical databases are collections of medical information that are stored electronically in an organized manner for easy accessibility. Digital competence is an essential skill for Nigerian university nursing students for effective utilization of digital tools to care for patients. The study assessed medical database availability and nursing students' digital literacy at a Nigerian private university, exploring awareness levels, available resources, and challenges faced with these databases. Method: The study used a descriptive survey design with a structured self-designed Google form questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. The form was sent out through the students’ WhatsApp forum. One hundred and eighty students participated in the study from 100 to 500 levels. The data was analysed using simple frequency and percentages with SPSS software package. Results: Out of 180 participants, 90% were female and 10% male. Most found online academic research easy, with 73.9% in strong agreement. Popular databases included Hinari, Embase, and JSTOR. Other known databases revealed are Online Access to Research in the Environment (OARE), National Virtual Library, and Proquest were less known. Major challenges identified were database search difficulties and poor awareness. Conclusion: Many of the respondents had basic knowledge of computer usage; however, some could not search and access medical databases effectively. The results revealed that respondent’s level of awareness of medical databases was poor; the study, therefore, recommends training and awareness programs on the available medical databases to enable nursing students to develop necessary skills that would ease medical databases accessibility and usage.
subject: Original Investigations
  topic: section
subject: digital competence
  topic: keywords
subject: medical databases
  topic: keywords
subject: Nursing
  topic: keywords
creator: Lucia Kolawole
creator: Victor Jatto
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-30
publication date: 2025-06-30
starting page: 20
ending page: 30

Impact of Social Media Usage on the Mental Health of Academic Librarians at Bayero University, Kano
type: item
description: Background: Social media (SM) has become essential for academic librarians. It facilitates professional networking, information sharing, and career development. However, excessive engagement may lead to stress, anxiety, and work-life imbalance. This study examines the patterns, benefits, and challenges of SM use among academic librarians at Bayero University, Kano (BUK). Method: A quantitative research design was employed, using a structured questionnaire distributed to 41 academic librarians across BUK. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics in SPSS to determine SM usage patterns, perceived benefits, challenges, and emotional impact. Results: Findings revealed that WhatsApp (78.0%) and Facebook (53.7%) were the most commonly used SM platforms for professional development. A majority of respondents (75.6%) engaged SM daily, primarily for information sharing (87.8%) and networking (78.0%). While 73.2% reported a positive impact on work-life balance, some librarians experienced stress due to social comparison (31.7%) and institutional support gaps (41.5%). Additionally, 68.3% expressed interest in training on managing the emotional effects of SM use. Conclusion: Although SM offers substantial professional benefits, its prolonged use can contribute to emotional strain. The study recommends institutional policies on digital well-being, structured training sessions, and enhanced organizational support for optimal SA engagements. These measures can help academic librarians leverage SM effectively while minimizing psychological effects.
subject: Original Investigations
  topic: section
subject: Social Media
  topic: keywords
subject: Mental Health
  topic: keywords
subject: Academic Librarians
  topic: keywords
subject: Bayero University
  topic: keywords
subject: Professional Development
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital Well-veing
  topic: keywords
creator: Zam'a Alhassan
creator: Ashiru Muhammad
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-21
publication date: 2025-06-21
starting page: 10
ending page: 19

https://johil.org/johil/article/view/72
type: item
title: Theory of Information Behaviour as a Theoretical Framework for Understanding Non-Compliance to Child Spacing Information: A Fresh Perspective for Designing Child Spacing Information Services and Communication Programs
description: Background: Non-compliance with child spacing is a major public health problem and a leading cause of maternal mortality. This study aimed to explore the socio-cultural reasons for non-compliance with child spacing information. Using Chatman’s (2000) theory of normative behaviour as a theoretical framework to guide the investigation. Method: The study adopted an interpretative research paradigm and also a qualitative research method, guided data collection, data analysis, data interpretation, and discussion of findings. Twenty-five childbearing women were interviewed using a semi-structured interview. The study adopted an analytic inductive process to identify 235 narratives explaining socio-cultural reasons for non-compliance with child spacing information. The narratives are organised into 13 recurring topics and further collapsed into six emergent categories to explain the socio-cultural reasons for non-compliance with child spacing information. Results: Findings indicated that availability of child spacing information, Beliefs, and practice related to child spacing information, spouse resistance to child spacing information, fear and misinformation relating to child spacing information, suspicion of Western people, distrust in mass media and health care providers are the major findings of this study. Conclusion: Findings interpreted using Chatman’s (2000) theory of normative behaviour conclude that for there to be a sustained acceptance and use of child spacing methods, there is a critical need for child spacing information program, to design child spacing information services based on the social and cultural dynamics of the child-bearing women who are resistance to child spacing information and services. Future research areas for sustained acceptance of the child spacing information services are identified.
subject: Original Investigations
  topic: section
subject: Information Behaviour Theory
  topic: keywords
subject: Child spacing
  topic: keywords
creator: Abubakar Abdulkareem
creator: Babangida Dangani
creator: Lawal Umar
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-17
publication date: 2025-06-17
starting page: 1
ending page: 9

ABSTRACTS OF THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE 14TH NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE MEDICAL LIBRARY ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA
type: item
description: 6 - 11 October, 2024 | Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria
subject: Conference Proceedings
  topic: section
subject: Medical Library Association of Nigeria
  topic: keywords
subject: Kaduna State University
  topic: keywords
subject: Conference Proceedings
  topic: keywords
subject: National Conference
  topic: keywords
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-24
publication date: 2024-12-24

The influence of social media in fuelling health-related disinformation, misinformation, false information and infodemics
type: item
description: Background: The proliferation of health information in Internet-based programming, in particular, social media, has introduced novel challenges for promoting health in society. As such, it is imperative to devise innovative approaches to overcome these challenges. such as social media, health advocates are faced with great challenges of curtailing the spread of false and inadequate information especially in public health emergencies where the lack of verifiable sources of health information may disrupt existing health service delivery. Risk communication is an important health communication strategy, but when it is not properly managed, it degenerates into infodemics. A situation that is very harmful to health promotion. This paper explores the influence of social media on health information promotion and provides a guide to managing information for behavioural change in health promotion. Contents from individual and group pages were purposively selected from two social media, namely, Facebook and WhatsApp. The researchers adopted qualitative content analysis in analysing the data. A few cases, such as the case of chloroquine publicity and incautious use of medical plants as alternative medicine in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, were purposively selected from WhatsApp and Facebook accounts. The result shows that as relevant as social media is to health advocacy, it is not devoid of spreading unfathomable information to the general public. This degenerates into a case of infodemics which has constituted a clog in the wheel of health promotion. In this contemporary world, where diverse races and nations have been levelled up on the platform of information access through social media tools, the spread of information on health management of an ailment or during an outbreak has often been characterised by a lack of control, quality, and reliability. The report of cases and management of an epidemic on social media tools are usually overblown to the extent that…
subject: Case Reports
  topic: section
subject: social media
  topic: keywords
subject: health information
  topic: keywords
subject: misinformation
  topic: keywords
creator: Mathew Farukuoye
creator: Morenike Oyinlade
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-11-30
publication date: 2024-11-30
starting page: 31
ending page: 42

Determining the Information-Seeking Strategies of Registered Nurses in General Hospitals of Jigawa State
type: item
description: The paper investigates the information-seeking strategies of nurses in Dutse General Hospitals in Jigawa State, Nigeria. The main objective of the study is to determine the information-seeking strategy of registered nurses in the state. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted. The population of the study comprised all (384) registered nurses in the general hospitals in Jigawa state. Total enumeration technique was used. A questionnaire was used to collect data. Three hundred and eighty-four (384) copies of the questionnaire were administered, and 352 (92%) copies were returned and found useful for analysis. The data collected was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics on SPSS Software. The finding reveals that the registered nurses rely heavily (74.0%) on their professional colleagues while seeking information. The study also reveals that professional colleagues are the most common information sources used by nurses, followed by e-books, e-journals, newspapers/magazines, and CD-ROMs. Other information resources used by the nurses for searching electronic information are Google and Yahoo. The study concluded that medical libraries should be established in the hospitals, and the nurses should be trained on how to improve their information-searching skills for enhanced healthcare delivery.
subject: Original Investigations
  topic: section
subject: Information-Seeking Strategy
  topic: keywords
subject: Health Information
  topic: keywords
subject: Nurses
  topic: keywords
subject: General Hospital, Dutse
  topic: keywords
creator: Adamu Muhammed
creator: Nasiru Sani
creator: Hadiza Ahmed
creator: Lawan Shuaibu
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-11-30
publication date: 2024-11-30
starting page: 23
ending page: 30

Social media usage and applications for service delivery among medical library staff in Nigeria
type: item
description: Background: Emerging technologies have transformed the globe and brought significant changes in information delivery in this century. One key change is the adoption of social media, an innovation redefining information provision. Many medical libraries in advanced countries are incorporating social media for service delivery. Literature has not given much attention to the use of social media in medical libraries in Nigeria. Thus, this paper explored the use and applications of social media among medical library staff in Nigeria. Methods: The study adopted a survey research design. The population comprised medical library staff in Nigeria. A questionnaire was used as the instrument for data collection. The total enumeration technique was used to cover all the medical library staff in Nigeria. A total of 54 medical library staff responded to the survey. Results: The results showed that WhatsApp was the most popular social media tool used, followed by Google, Facebook, and Instant messaging. The results also revealed that reference services, user orientation, and current awareness were some of the services delivered using social media. Poor internet access, lack of management support, and erratic power supply were some of the constraints. Conclusion: The paper concluded that many medical library staff have embraced social media. However, it seems they have not adequately maximised these media in the delivery of library and information services. More awareness should be created about the use of social media, such as wikis and blogs, for information services delivery. The challenges in using social media should be addressed.
subject: Original Investigations
  topic: section
subject: Social media
  topic: keywords
subject: Service delivery
  topic: keywords
subject: Health sciences Library
  topic: keywords
subject: Nigeria
  topic: keywords
creator: Omobola Adewoyin
creator: Agnes Oye
creator: Uchechukwu Ugo
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-11-30
publication date: 2024-11-30
starting page: 15
ending page: 22

Post-COVID-19 Evaluation of Information Systems Used in Rural Health Facilities in Delta State
type: item
description: The emergence of COVID-19 posed a lot of challenges to the rural communities in Nigeria. Nigeria is diversified, with a high concentration of elderly and teenagers in the rural areas. With a vulnerable population, rural communities are extremely important in terms of receiving Health Information (HI). This post-COVID-19 study investigated the use of information systems for the dissemination of health information in rural communities of Agbarho Kingdom of Delta State during the COVID-19 pandemic. A descriptive survey design using quantitative research with a questionnaire as the instrument for data collection was used for the study. The study focused on eight public and private hospitals in the Kingdom. The population of the study was 113 health personnel. The researchers adopted a face-to-face approach to administer the questionnaire directly to the available respondents within a period of one month (February 26 to March 25, 2024). Within that period, the researchers met 63 personnel who were on duty. Out of the 63, a total of 51 responded appropriately to the questionnaire that was used for the analysis. The data that was collected for this study were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. The study showed that the traditional method, the libraries and information systems were used by health professionals for the dissemination of HI to the rural people. The result also revealed that some health information was available to rural people during the COVID-19 pandemic. The challenges that hindered the dissemination of HI were highlighted. The health personnel in the health facilities in the rural communities in the kingdom participated in managing the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The study concluded that information systems, libraries and traditional methods were important means for the dissemination of health information to the rural people during the COVID-19 pandemic.
subject: Original Investigations
  topic: section
subject: Information Systems
  topic: keywords
subject: Health Information Dissemination
  topic: keywords
subject: Rural Health Facilities
  topic: keywords
subject: COVID-19 Pandemic
  topic: keywords
subject: Delta State
  topic: keywords
creator: Saturday Omeluzor
creator: Asimi Asimi Alarape
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-11-30
publication date: 2024-11-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 14

HYBRID LIBRARY: OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES FOR MEDICAL LIBRARIES IN NIGERIA
type: item
description: Development of electronic resources in the current age, has led to the incorporation of digital information resources to complement traditional print information resources in many libraries. The paper is a review of the hybrid library system as it relates to medical library services. Electronic information resources that are essentially important to the medical library in the digital age were presented. The paper discussed the opportunities offered by the hybrid library system which can help medical libraries in Nigeria to extend their reach and meet the health information needs of users. Limited funds for resource acquisition for both electronic and print resources were identified as the major challenge encountered by medical libraries in achieving this mission. The paper concludes that medical librarians should continue to refashion their services as funds and resources become available to remain relevant in the global paradigm shift in library and information science.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Ebele Anyaoku
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 45
ending page: 52

ELECTRONIC RESOURCES AND MEDICAL INFORMATION PROVISION
type: item
description: Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) have brought about enormous opportunities and challenges to the field of Library and Information Services; and in recent time in the health sector. However, the use of Internet in searching and accessing relevant and current information resources is on the increase. The increasing competency in information literacy is the foundation for effective information provision of electronic resources among medical practitioners. In view of this, Libraries and Information centres particularly in the subSaharan Africa that are experiencing budget cut which in turn affects acquisition and collection development can now embrace ICTs to manage and provide access to quality information resources which in turn will improve the quality of services that they provide for their clients. Therefore, this article focuses on the review of related literatures on electronic information resources with particular reference to medical information need. More so, insight into its benefits and challenges were discussed and available online resources that can enhance quality research in the medical information provision were also highlighted.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Oladimeji Yemi-Peters
creator: Dorcas Bana
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 16
ending page: 22

USE OF HINARI DATABASE BY FACULTY STAFF OF COLLEGE OF MEDICINE, UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA, ENUGU CAMPUS
type: item
description: This paper investigates the usage' of Health Internetwork Access to Research Initiative (HINARI) database for health information by Faculty staff of the college of Medicine University of Nigeria, Enugu. Sixty questionnaires were distributed and fifty four (90%) returned. Findings indicate that staff of Community Medicine are the highest users (16.67%) followed by Pediatricians (14.81%>), Obstetricians and Gynecologists (12.96%) and Medicine (9.26%). Also 77.34% of the respondents can use the database well, 22.66% indicated not very capable. The database was mostly used by researchers (37%). Those who use it for teaching and conference/workshop followed with 14.81% each.33.3-3% do not use the database regularly. (66.67%) use it when the need arises. It was also found out that the use of the database was more for reprinting articles for home reading (64.81%).This was followed by those who read only the abstract (27.78%). Response from respondents shows that HINARI database is an invaluable tool for research especially for developing countries.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Luke Iroka
creator: Francis Anaeme
creator: Ngozi Uzoagba
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 74
ending page: 79

AVAILABILITY AND USE OF INFORMATION RESOURCES IN MEDICAL LIBRARIES BY PRE CLINICAL STUDENTS IN SELECTED UNIVERSITIES IN EDO STATE
type: item
description: The main aim of the study was to indentify the availability and use of information resources in medical libraries by pre-clinical students in selected universities in Edo state. Descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. Three hundred and thirty four respondents participated in the study. Questionnaire was used as instrument for r data collection. Five research questions were formulated for the study. Results were analyzed using simple percentages. Textbooks, dictionaries, journals, are some of the available information resources in the medical libraries studies. Low Computer literacy to browse the Internet was the major problem associated with the use of information resources. The study concludes that creating awareness of information resources is essential for maximum utilization by pre-clinical students.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Sunday Oguntayo
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 63
ending page: 73

THE RISING TIDE OF LASSA FEVER IN NIGERIA
type: item
description: Lassa fever, a zoonotic disease, endemic in parts of Nigeria, is caused by the Lassa virus. It is a haemorrhagic fever, caused by the Lassa virus. The animal host is Mastomynatalensis. This paper presents a state of knowledge report through literature search, newspaper report and oral communication. The virus is fairly easily transmitted from human to human. The symptoms are varied and non-specific, making clinical diagnosis of the disease difficult in the early stages. The fever was first reported in Nigeria in 1969 in Bornu State. Up to date, it has been clinically confirmed in 21 states. Nigerians especially in rural areas are oblivious of the disease and there are only two hospitals in the country with the capacity to screen the blood for Lassa virus. The best strategy for control of the emerging disease is prevention through an intensive awareness campaign and libraries all over Nigeria has a role to play in the control and reduction of cases of the disease.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Lassa fever
  topic: keywords
subject: Disease Control
  topic: keywords
subject: Role of medical librarians
  topic: keywords
creator: Margaret Abimbola
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 53
ending page: 62

INFORMATION ACQUISITION AND EFFECTIVE PERFORMANCE OF MEDICAL DOCTORS
type: item
description: This paper discusses the practice of medicine as essentially information oriented which calls for effort geared towards proper acquisition of information for high quality health care. The main purpose of the paper was to find out the use of information resources by medical doctors in Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital. Findings show that Medical Doctors perceive the library to be very relevant as a source of information. Findings also showed that the Internet is the major source of information. A very high percentage applies sourced information with a very high frequency in attending to patients. Heavy workload was the major hindrance to the effective use of the medical library. The study recommends that information technology structures linking the various departments should be developed to help ensure that quality information is made available to the Doctors for effective performance of their duties.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Olayemi Oyefeso
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 38
ending page: 44

CHALLENGES OF MEDICAL LIBRARY SERVICES IN THE INFORMATION AGE
type: item
description: Revolution in information generation and use especially in the health sector occasioned by communication technology evolution has radically continued to challenge and reshape the library environment and services generally. Medical libraries are not immune from this innocuous change. Medical libraries face additional challenges that are unique to the health care system. These challenges include continuous medical research on ever emerging health issues, health care policies, increasing consumer awareness, diverse information needs as well as new formats of documentation and dissemination. The paper maintains that medical library services would continue to be relevant but need to be revaluated in the present information age. The paper proffers continued education for librarians, maintaining hybrid collection, networking, partnerships, and improved use of web 2.0 technologies as ways to remain current and relevant in the digital age.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: F.O. Anaeme
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 31
ending page: 37

INFORMATION NEEDS AND SEEKING BEHAVIOUR OF NURSING STUDENTS
type: item
description: This study examined the information needs and seeking behaviour of undergraduate Nursing students of College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka. The study adopted a survey design using questionnaire as instrument for data collection. A total of 108 nursing students responded to the questionnaire used for the study. Frequency counts and percentages represented in pie and bar charts .were used to present the analysed data. Findings revealed that the Nursing students need information for class work/ assignment (100%). Textbooks are the major information sources consulted (100%) while lack of time (88.89%) is the major hindrance to information seeking. The study recommends that the library should adjust their service hours to suit the schedule of the Nursing students.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Information needs
  topic: keywords
subject: Nursing students
  topic: keywords
creator: Caroline Akporido
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 23
ending page: 30

AN INVESTIGATION OF THE INFORMATION NEEDS OF LECTURERS AND STUDENTS OF COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES, BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI
type: item
description: The study is an investigation into the information needs of lecturers and students of College of Health Science, Benue State University, Makurdi. Descriptive survey design was used. The population was give hundred and eighty-four, which was made up of thirty-four lecturers and five hundred and fifty students. Proportionate stratified random sampling technique was used to draw a sample of one hundred and fifty students. The instrument of study was questionnaire. The study identified subject areas where lecturers and students need information needs as basic medical sciences, pathology, physiotherapy, surgery, pharmacology and public health. Inadequate online collection and incessant power failure were the problems militating against these needs. It was recommended that medical library should work towards meeting the information needs of lecturers and students by providing full fledge information and communication technologies. This will enable them to access various forms of sources electronically.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Health information need
  topic: keywords
subject: Information sources
  topic: keywords
subject: Information dissemination
  topic: keywords
subject: Health professionals
  topic: keywords
creator: Rebecca Ape
creator: Moses Ode
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 8
ending page: 15

FROM TRADITIONAL TO TECHNOLOGY – BASED MEDICAL LIBRARY SERVICES
type: item
description: The operation and services revolution affecting global library services delivery has not excluded medical libraries. The later has its own share of the revolutionary catalyst consisting mainly of changes in concepts, medical education, technology, services and users interest. Consequently, such library services needed for Evidence Based Medicine (EBM)/Evidence Based Health Care (EBHC) necessitated the adoption of technology-based library services in form of automated, digital, interactive as well as Evidence Based Librarianship (EBL). Medical librarians are therefore faced with the challenges of type of services to render in an attempt to be counted among the ‘team players’ rather than ‘onlookers’ or worst still ‘indifferent’ services providers. As noted by Oluwakuyide (1972), ‘ideally a medical librarian should keep abreast of developments in both medicine and librarianship’. Hence, medical librarians must examine their services regularly visà-vis global trends in the field of medicine and librarianship. By so doing they will have the opportunity to identify what they need to know and do as well as, how to do it. This is definitely one of the major reasons for Medical Library Association Conference/Annual General Meeting (AGM).
subject: Articles
  topic: section
creator: Chinwe Anunobi
rights: Copyright (c) 2013 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2013-06-03
publication date: 2013-06-03
starting page: 1
ending page: 8

NIGERIAN MEDICAL LIBRARIANSHIP IN THE 21ST CENTURY: THE RIVERS AND BRIDGES TO CROSS
type: item
description: This paper focuses on the Nigerian medical librarianship as intertwined between technological interventions, quality services delivery and economic realities of the 21st century. These advances in libraries have remarkable impacts on information access, storage and retrieval. The emerging trend requires every professional to device competencies to remain relevant and for coping in the evolving Information Society. The paper noted the absence of current collections in many libraries and of automated operations - a pitfall linked to inadequate funding. It also noted that quite a lot of medical librarians are still battling with the reality of the transition from traditional to automated library system, which accounts for the inadequacies associated with their modes of services delivery and quality of output. The paper stressed that Nigerian medical librarians need to demonstrate a mastery of the subject for use in evidence based medical librarianship. The paper recommends proper upgrading of facilities at the medical libraries to meet the 21st century standards and to ensure capacity building of the medical librarians for effectiveness in users' support.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Medical Librarianship
  topic: keywords
subject: Competencies
  topic: keywords
subject: Digital Age
  topic: keywords
subject: Electronic information resources
  topic: keywords
subject: Library development in Nigeria
  topic: keywords
creator: AYO ONATOLA
creator: BOLA ATULOMAH
rights: Copyright (c) 2014 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2014-12-26
publication date: 2014-12-26
starting page: 61
ending page: 69

IMPROVING ACCESS TO HEALTH INFORMATION: EMERGING ROLES FOR MEDICAL LIBRARIANS
type: item
description: Limited access to health information has remained a major barrier retarding effective healthcare delivery especially in developing countries. Morbidity and mortality rates can be reduced if access to health information within the health system is eased. Today, moving health information from the point of generation to where it is needed requires the Medical Librarians to be proactive. This paper examines the essence of health information; it generators and users; the problems to access and various steps the medical librarian can take in ensuring that all stakeholders are reached with their health information needs. Rising to these challenges even beyond the library walls will improve access to health information in different sectors with obvious positive impacts.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Health information
  topic: keywords
subject: Medical librarians
  topic: keywords
subject: Health information dissemination
  topic: keywords
creator: UJU NWAFOR-ORIZU
rights: Copyright (c) 2014 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2014-12-26
publication date: 2014-12-26
starting page: 54
ending page: 60

CEREBROVASCULAR ACCIDENT (CVA): THE ROLE OF NURSES IN PROVISION OF INFORMATION ON ITS PREVENTION AND SELF-CARE
type: item
description: Cerebro vascular accident “CVA or stroke refers to any functional abnormality of the central nervous system that occurs when the normal blood supply to the brain is disrupted. Stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the world and has become a threat to human survival; hence this paper discusses the role of nurses in provision of information on stroke, its prevention and self care. Some recommendations were also proffered by the writers to help minimize the occurrence of stroke and the amount of lives lost through it.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Cerebrovascular acceident
  topic: keywords
subject: stroke
  topic: keywords
subject: Nurse Educator
  topic: keywords
subject: Health Promotion
  topic: keywords
creator: CLEMENTINA NWANKWO
creator: MONICA MAKACHI
rights: Copyright (c) 2014 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2014-12-26
publication date: 2014-12-26
starting page: 44
ending page: 53

AWARENESS OF PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST VULVOVAGINAL CANDIDIASIS AMONG FEMALE STUDENTS IN UNIVERSITY OF NIGERIA SECONDARY SCHOOL, NSUKKA, ENUGU STATE
type: item
description: This study was carried out to ascertain the level of awareness of the preventive measures against vulvovaginal candidiasis among female senior secondary school students in University of Nigeria Secondary School, Nsukka, Enugu State. The study adopted the descriptive design. Sample was 200A semi-structured self administered questionnaire was used to elicit information from the participants on the result showed major source of information was class teachers. A good number of the students 140 (70%) correctly indicated that vulvovaginal candidiasis is caused by Candida albicans and other Candida species. 150 (75%), 147 (73.3%) and 125(62.5%) confirmed that unclean toilets, sexual intercourse and sharing of underwear could predispose females to this infection. On the preventive measures 140 (70%) knew that the use of cotton pants and tights were measures aimed at preventing the infection when compared to nylon and synthetic underwear, 100% agreed that a good personal and environmental hygiene were the best preventive measures. In conclusion, the study showed that the students had a high level of awareness which was as a result of exposure to knowledge about vulvovaginal candidiasis by school teachers.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Disease prevention
  topic: keywords
subject: Vulvovaginal Candidiases
  topic: keywords
subject: Adolescent Health
  topic: keywords
subject: School Health
  topic: keywords
creator: IKPO OKOROAFOR
creator: UWEM AKWANG
rights: Copyright (c) 2014 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2014-12-26
publication date: 2014-12-26
starting page: 37
ending page: 43

EMPOWERING PATIENTS FOR CHRONIC DISEASE SELFMANAGEMENT THROUGH ACCESS TO HEALTH INFORMATION IN NIGERIA
type: item
description: In Nigeria fast moving urbanization and its attendant changes in life style and in diet, have led to increase in chronic diseases. The paper is a review on the role of health information in patients' self-management of chronic diseases. It noted that the most important role of health information is patient empowerment which supports patients in taking good decisions on their care. The paper noted the lack of organized patient health information disseminating structures in Nigerian health institutions. This has created limited access to health information for patients who might need it in the care process. The paper reviewed various methods and strategies that can be adopted for health information dissemination In conclusion, it stated that the Federal Government of Nigeria, health care institutions and organizations have a duty to ensure that patients have access to health information through development of appropriate policies and strategies to support its dissemination.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Patient information
  topic: keywords
subject: health information access
  topic: keywords
subject: consumer health information services
  topic: keywords
subject: chronic disease care
  topic: keywords
subject: medical library
  topic: keywords
creator: Ebele Anyaoku
rights: Copyright (c) 2014 Journal of Health Information and Librarianship https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2014-12-26
publication date: 2014-12-26
starting page: 28
ending page: 36