A qualitative, phenomenological study of scabies patients at Cikatomas Health Center

Abstract

Infestation with the Sarcoptes scabies mite causes scabies, an infectious skin disease that is often found in densely populated areas. This disease is characterized by itching, especially at night, as well as the appearance of rashes and lesions on the skin. Scabies is an endemic public health problem that attacks groups of people with poor personal hygiene. This research aims
to understand the experiences of scabies patients regarding their disease journey, including treatment and prevention efforts. The research method used is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. Participants were selected using purposive sampling, and a total of seven participants from Cikatomas Health Center, Tasikmalaya Regency, were included. We collected data through in-depth interviews. From the research results, five themes emerged regarding the experiences of scabies patients in their disease journey: symptoms, risk factors, chain of transmission, treatment efforts, and prevention efforts. In conclusion, during the onset of symptoms, patients reported experiencing intense itching, particularly, in several areas of the body. The most prominent risk factors found in patients were poor personal hygiene and inadequate housing density. The chain of transmission occurred due to contact with other scabies patients, including a history of sharing beds in dormitories and using shared items. Patients sought treatment at health facilities, but did not receive treatment together with friends or other affected family members, thereby allowing the chain of transmission to continue. Prevention efforts have been made by improving personal hygiene.