The Perceptions of Professional Nurses Regarding the Performance of Cervical Cancer Screening, in Makhuduthamaga Sub-district, Sekhukhune District, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Cervical cancer is regarded as the most common diagnosed type of cancer and resulting in high cancer related mortality amongst women. Cervical cancer related mortality rate is a serious challenge in Africa as compared to other countries, which needs a high collaborative approach amongst all health professionals. However, the higher incidence and death rate of cervical cancer implies that, high need of cervical cancer screening measures are necessary.

A qualitative, descriptive approach was conducted through focus group discussions to establish perceptions of professional nurses regarding the provision of cervical cancer screening services in clinics. Challenges regarding the provision of cervical cancer services in clinics were raised by professional nurses during interviews. Verbatim data was collected by using interview guides and analyzed using Tesch’s 8-step approach in the coding process. Perceptions such as cultural beliefs, lack of resources for conduction of cervical cancer screening and transportation of Pap smear specimens and results, inadequate provision of information and pap smear results to clients were raised by professional nurses as contributing to cervical cancer uptake. Lack of standardized cervical cancer screening training thus leading to professional nurses not being sure of their performance regarding the provision of cervical cancer screening services were also stated by participants as challenges influencing uptake of cervical cancer screening. However, lack of standardized training about cervical cancer screening was found to be affecting the performance on provision of cervical screening services.

A need for standardized cervical cancer screening training for all professional nurses is recommended.