A study to determine the attitude of health workers at St Francis hospital (Katete) towards Legalization of induced abortion in Zambia.

Abstract

The objective of the study was to determine the attitude of Health Workers at St Francis Hospital in Katete towards legalization of abortion in Zambia. Literature review for the study looked at the opinion of Health Workers and the general Public on legalization of abortion at global, regional and national level. For the purpose of this study, a descriptive study was considered. The sample unit was selected from all the clinical departments of the hospital. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select a total sample of 50 respondents, which comprised Nurses, Clinical Officers and Health Workers in the category of others. Self- administered questionnaires were used to collect data. From the findings, it appears that the majority of health workers (52%) accepted legalization of abortion. It was found out that knowledge on the Abortion Act, work experience, level of profession and post abortal complications attended to had significant relationship with legalization of abortion. The recommendations in view of the findings are that; The Abortion Act on 1972 should be broadened to encompass the areas which have been restricted; abortion should be performed on the clients demand; each hospital in Zambia should be providing abortion services to clients.