Exploring Healthcare Practitioners’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practice in Diagnosing and Treating Functional Neurologic Disorder at Black Lion Specialized Hospital Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Qualitative Study
| dc.contributor.advisor | Getahun Tibebu | |
| dc.contributor.author | Liya Jemal | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2025-03-20T14:28:39Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2025-03-20T14:28:39Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2023-12-05 | |
| dc.description.abstract | Background: Functional neurologic disorder (FND) is a common disorder that requires a multidisciplinary approach to diagnose and treat it. Failing to properly diagnose and treat FND can lead to poor outcomes and unnecessary financial burden for patients. More research is needed on the knowledge, attitude, and practice of healthcare practitioners regarding FND, particularly in Ethiopia. Objectives: To explore the knowledge, attitude, and practices of healthcare professionals involved in the diagnosis and management of functional neurological illness in Tikur Anbessa Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Method: A qualitative methodology was used in this research utilizing a semi structured interview .a purposeful sample of neurology and psychiatry residents were interviewed face to face using audio record at Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. A total of 12 residents participated in this study. Result: Participants had underlined that FND is caused by a problem with how the brain functions rather than a structural impairment in the brain. A complete medical history was described by the participants as necessary for ruling out other illnesses and boosting confidence in a diagnosis of FND, which is significant because early detection can lead to improved outcomes. Participants communicated that they struggle with the ambiguity of FND and may mistakenly express skepticism or overlook patients' concerns. Conclusion: Functional neurological disorder (FND) is a complex disorder that manifests in a variety of neurological symptoms, including weakness, tremor, seizures, and sensory disturbances. These symptoms are unpredictable and fluctuating, which can make the disorder difficult to diagnose and manage. FND is not caused by damage to the brain's structure, but rather by a disruption in the way the brain functions. A thorough medical history is crucial for ruling out other potential causes of neurological symptoms and increasing confidence in an FND diagnosis. Early diagnosis and management of FND require a multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, psychiatrists, and mental health professionals. Psychological interventions, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), have been shown to be effective in managing FND symptoms and improving patient outcomes. | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://etd.aau.edu.et/handle/123456789/5201 | |
| dc.language.iso | en_US | |
| dc.publisher | Addis Ababa University | |
| dc.subject | FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGIC DISORDER | |
| dc.title | Exploring Healthcare Practitioners’ Knowledge, Attitude and Practice in Diagnosing and Treating Functional Neurologic Disorder at Black Lion Specialized Hospital Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: Qualitative Study | |
| dc.type | Thesis |