Rethinking paediatric sepsis care through local provider voices and lived systems: a mixed-methods study in two hospitals in Ghana.

backgroundPaediatric sepsis remains a significant cause of mortality in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where health systems are often resource-constrained. Global sepsis protocols, although effective in high-income settings, may not be well-suited to LMIC contexts.

methodsWe conducted a mixed-methods study in two hospitals in the Ashanti Region of Ghana: Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) and Presbyterian Hospital, Agogo (PreHA). Specifically, we conducted a retrospective chart review, followed by key informant interviews with clinical staff, and integrated our findings with a previously published situational analysis. Qualitative data analysis employed the Three Delays Framework and the Donabedian Model to identify locations and causes of delays in care.

resultsSeventy-one charts met the inclusion criteria for review, having a history of fever or hypothermia and complete vital signs documented (16 from PreHA, 55 from KATH). Despite KATH managing more severely ill patients with higher sepsis scores and longer stays, mortality rates were similar at both sites. The chart review highlighted gaps in documentation and inconsistent care processes. Key informant interviews revealed themes such as provider altruism, community financial support and the positive role of research collaborations, while also illustrating systemic delays linked to financial and resource constraints.

conclusionPaediatric sepsis care in Ghana is influenced by complex and interconnected structural, cultural and procedural factors. Our findings indicate that contextually adapted care pathways are crucial for improving sepsis outcomes in resource-constrained settings. Co-designed interventions, rather than wholly imported protocols, may offer a more sustainable approach to strengthening health systems in LMICs.