NURSING TOPICS

Background of the Study

Neonatal care is essential for reducing infant morbidity and mortality, especially in developing countries where healthcare systems face significant challenges (WHO, 2024). The neonatal period, which encompasses the first 28 days of life, is the most vulnerable time for an infant, as complications such as infections, birth asphyxia, and low birth weight contribute to high mortality rates (Lawn et al., 2023). In Nigeria, neonatal mortality remains a major conc...

Background of the Study

Medication adherence is crucial in the management of chronic and acute illnesses, as non-adherence can lead to poor health outcomes, increased hospitalizations, and higher healthcare costs (Nieuwlaat et al., 2023). In hospital settings, ensuring that inpatients adhere to prescribed medications is essential for effective treatment, yet non-adherence remains a widespread issue (Brown & Bussell, 2023). Factors such as forgetfulness, lack of understanding abo...

Background of the Study

Pain management in elderly patients is a critical aspect of healthcare, as older adults frequently suffer from chronic pain conditions such as osteoarthritis, neuropathic pain, and musculoskeletal disorders (Hadjistavropoulos et al., 2023). Effective pain management is essential for improving their quality of life, preventing functional decline, and reducing hospitalizations. However, pain in elderly patients is often undertreated due to misconceptions, inade...

Background of the Study

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) plays a vital role in ensuring that nurses maintain and improve their clinical competencies. In a rapidly evolving healthcare environment, advancements in medical knowledge, technology, and patient care protocols necessitate ongoing education for nurses to provide high-quality care (Wilkinson et al., 2024). CPD encompasses structured learning activities such as workshops, seminars, certifications, and in-service train...

Background of the Study

Pressure ulcers, also known as pressure injuries or bedsores, are a major concern in healthcare settings, particularly among hospitalized patients with limited mobility. These injuries result from prolonged pressure on the skin, leading to tissue damage and potential complications such as infections, delayed healing, and increased morbidity (Gaspar et al., 2024). The prevalence of pressure ulcers remains a global health challenge, with studies indicating that...

Background of the Study

Patient safety is a fundamental aspect of healthcare, focusing on preventing harm to patients during the provision of care. In Nigerian hospitals, patient safety culture—defined as the shared values, beliefs, and behaviors concerning safety within healthcare settings—is essential for fostering an environment that minimizes the risk of errors and adverse events. Nurses, as key members of the healthcare team, have a direct impact on patient safety t...

Background of the Study

Pre-eclampsia and eclampsia are hypertensive disorders of pregnancy that pose significant risks to both mothers and infants. Pre-eclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria after the 20th week of pregnancy, while eclampsia is the progression of pre-eclampsia, leading to seizures. Both conditions are major contributors to maternal morbidity and mortality, particularly in low-resource settings. Early detection and management of these condi...

Background of the Study

Foodborne illnesses represent a significant public health challenge globally, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates, particularly in developing countries. These illnesses are caused by the consumption of contaminated food or water, leading to infections or toxic reactions. The scale of an outbreak can vary from a localized group of cases to a widespread public health emergency. In hospitals, foodborne illness outbreaks require prompt identificati...

Background of the Study

Sleep disorders are prevalent among hospitalized patients, contributing to poor patient outcomes, including delayed recovery, increased risk of complications, and longer hospital stays. Hospitalization itself can disrupt patients' normal sleep patterns due to factors such as the hospital environment, medical interventions, and underlying health conditions. The management of sleep disorders in hospitalized patients requires a comprehensive approach that in...

Background of the Study

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability, along with non-motor symptoms including cognitive impairment, sleep disturbances, and mood disorders. The management of PD is multifaceted, requiring a combination of pharmacological treatments, physical therapy, and psychosocial support to improve the quality of life for patients. Nurses p...

Background of the Study

Malnutrition among hospitalized elderly patients is a significant concern, as it can lead to prolonged hospital stays, increased risk of complications, and a slower recovery process. The elderly population is particularly vulnerable to malnutrition due to factors such as chronic illness, reduced appetite, and difficulty swallowing. Hospitalized elderly patients often face additional challenges, including the effects of acute illness, medications, and limited...

Background of the Study

Hazardous drugs, including chemotherapy agents, immunosuppressants, and antiretroviral medications, pose significant risks to healthcare workers, especially nurses, who may be exposed during preparation, administration, and disposal. Exposure to these drugs can lead to serious health risks, including reproductive harm, organ toxicity, and even cancer. It is therefore crucial that healthcare facilities implement strict protocols to ensure the safe handling, ad...

Background of the Study

Substance use disorders (SUDs) remain a critical public health issue worldwide, with addiction to substances such as alcohol, opioids, and illicit drugs leading to severe physical and psychological consequences. One of the most challenging aspects of managing patients with SUDs is addressing withdrawal symptoms, which can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening conditions, such as delirium tremens or seizures. The severity and complexity of withdrawal...

Background of the Study

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition characterized by the body's immune system attacking the peripheral nervous system. The disorder often begins with weakness and tingling in the limbs, which can rapidly progress to complete paralysis. Although the exact cause of GBS is unknown, it is commonly preceded by infections such as respiratory or gastrointestinal infections. Early diagnosis and appropriate man...

Background of the Study

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical to improving outcomes for children with ASD, as early treatment can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and improve functioning. Nurses, particularly those in pediatric and community health settings, play an essential role in the early detection of children who may...

Background of the Study

Drowning and near-drowning incidents are significant public health concerns worldwide, particularly in tropical regions like Nigeria, where water bodies such as rivers, ponds, and lakes are common. Drowning can lead to severe complications such as brain injury, organ failure, or even death. Prompt and appropriate nursing interventions during the initial phases of drowning and near-drowning incidents are crucial to improving survival rates and minimizing long-...

Background of the Study

Infection control is a critical aspect of healthcare delivery, particularly in settings such as dental units, where patients are at risk of exposure to pathogens through invasive procedures, contaminated instruments, and the close proximity between healthcare workers and patients. Dental nurses, as part of the dental healthcare team, play a key role in implementing infection control practices, which include sterilization of instruments, disinfection of surfac...

Background of the Study

Febrile convulsions are one of the most common neurological emergencies in young children, often triggered by fever, and are typically seen in children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. While most febrile convulsions are self-limiting, appropriate management is essential to ensure the child's safety, minimize potential complications, and reduce the recurrence of seizures. Nurses play a crucial role in the initial assessment and management of febri...

Background of the Study

Chemotherapy administration is an essential treatment modality for cancer patients, and its effectiveness is highly dependent on the accurate delivery of prescribed regimens. However, chemotherapy drugs are potent, and their administration poses significant risks not only to patients but also to healthcare workers if proper safety protocols are not followed. Nurses, as key healthcare providers in oncology settings, are responsible for ensuring that chemothera...

Background of the Study

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) remains one of the most prevalent and dangerous nosocomial infections, contributing to significant morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients. It is typically defined as pneumonia that occurs 48 hours or more after admission to the hospital and is not incubating at the time of admission. Patients who are critically ill, have compromised immune systems, or require invasive procedures are at a higher risk for HAP. The...

Background of the Study

Pediatric cardiac arrest, though rare, is a life-threatening emergency that requires prompt and effective intervention to prevent death or long-term neurological damage. The management of pediatric cardiac arrest involves a combination of rapid assessment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), defibrillation, and advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS) techniques, all of which require specialized knowledge and skills. Nurses, as part of the healthcare team...

Background of the Study

Zoonotic diseases are infections that are transmitted from animals to humans, and their emergence has become a significant global health concern in recent decades. The impact of zoonotic diseases, such as Ebola, avian influenza, and COVID-19, has underscored the need for healthcare workers, including nurses, to be adequately prepared for early detection, response, and containment. Cross River State, located in southeastern Nigeria, is home to a rich biodivers...

Background of the Study

Maternal mortality remains a significant public health issue worldwide, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where complications during pregnancy and childbirth contribute to high mortality rates. In Nigeria, the maternal mortality rate remains alarmingly high, despite the availability of skilled birth attendants and advancements in healthcare. One of the most effective ways to reduce maternal mortality is through improved antenatal care (ANC), which involves...

Background of the Study

Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are specialized units within hospitals designed to provide advanced care to newborns, particularly those born prematurely or with serious health complications. At Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), the NICU plays a critical role in ensuring that neonates receive the care they need to survive and thrive. Nurses working in the NICU must possess a high level of specialized knowledge and clinical skills to manage the...

Background of the Study

Psychiatric emergencies are acute situations in which individuals experience severe mental health crises, such as suicidal ideation, violent behavior, or a sudden psychotic episode. These emergencies are common in psychiatric hospitals and require rapid, effective interventions to ensure the safety and well-being of both patients and staff. Yaba Neuropsychiatric Hospital, one of Nigeria’s foremost psychiatric hospitals, serves as a primary care facility...