The development of a treatment guideline for childhood malaria in rural Southwest Nigeria using participatory approach

Objective To describe the development of a treatment guideline for the effective case management of malaria in children at the home level.Methods Thirty-three mothers selected from 11 communities in a rural health district, community members and the research team developed a guideline for treatment of malaria at home by caregivers using a participatory approach. This was done in phases using modified focus group discussion sessions. Suggested ideas were depicted in illustrations by a graphic artist.Results A guideline which illustrated the presentation of clinical types of malaria, the appropriate steps to take for each type and the correct dosage schedule of chloroquine (based on the age of the child) for treatment of uncomplicated malaria was developed. The guideline was in cartoon format and the script in the local language.Conclusion Use of a participatory approach was found acceptable and effective in the development of the guideline. This approach is therefore recommended irrespective of the target population or the intervention to be developed.Practice implications Preparation of educational materials with contributions from end users does not only build capacity at the local level but also increases the acceptability and ownership of such materials.