Barriers and facilitators on the use of a trauma registry among healthcare workers in the Emergency Department at Kenyatta National Hospital in Kenya; A qualitative study

Introduction In Kenya, trauma from road traffic accidents (RTAs) is the fifth leading cause of death, with poor injury response contributing to preventable fatalities. Effective trauma care is essential to reduce healthcare costs and improve outcomes. Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), the largest referral hospital in East Africa, receives around 6,000 trauma patients annually but lacks a formal trauma registry. The reliance on low-quality, paper-based data limits the hospital’s capacity to design evidence-based injury prevention and response strategies. This study explored the barriers and facilitators to implementing a standardized trauma registry in the Emergency Department (ED). Methods A descriptive qualitative study was conducted in the ED at KNH using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Key informant interviews were held with two trauma surgeons, two ED unit heads, two senior nursing officers, the Director of Surgical Services, and the Senior Director of Clinical Services. Purposive sampling selected participants from 45 medical officers, 12 surgical residents, 30 health information officers, 8 ICT officers, and 120 nurses. Participants were grouped into focus group discussions (FGDs) of 6–8 individuals, with interviews conducted until thematic saturation was achieved. Audio recordings were transcribed and analyzed thematically. Results Thematic saturation was reached after six FGDs and eight key informant interviews. Four key themes emerged: (1) Barriers, (2) Facilitators, (3) Perceived Benefits, and (4) Sustainability. Participants reported that the trauma registry was user-friendly, adaptable, and suitable for integration into the hospital’s e-health system, promoting long-term use. Conclusion The study demonstrates the acceptability and feasibility of a trauma registry at a national referral hospital. Broader adoption in similar settings is recommended. Inclusion of diverse healthcare worker perspectives and strategic investment by governments and funders are essential to strengthening trauma care systems.