An evaluation of staff workload and its impact on patient care: A case study of hospitals in Nasarawa State
- Project Research
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- Table of Content: Available
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Staff workload is a critical factor influencing the quality of patient care in hospitals. In Nasarawa State, healthcare institutions have been grappling with issues related to high staff workloads, understaffing, and insufficient resources to manage the growing demand for healthcare services. As patient numbers rise, especially in public hospitals, staff members are often forced to take on more patients than they can handle, which can compromise the quality of care delivered (Ibrahim et al., 2024). Studies have shown that heavy workloads are associated with increased stress, burnout, and errors in patient care, leading to negative health outcomes and reduced patient satisfaction (Akintoye & Bello, 2023).
Hospitals in Nasarawa State, particularly public hospitals, face staffing challenges due to limited recruitment and retention strategies. Nurses, doctors, and other healthcare staff often work long hours and manage high patient volumes, impacting their ability to provide timely and effective care (Nwankwo et al., 2025). Understanding the relationship between staff workload and patient care is essential for addressing these challenges and improving healthcare delivery in the state.
This study will evaluate how staff workload affects the quality of patient care in hospitals in Nasarawa State, with a focus on identifying factors that contribute to high workloads and their impact on hospital performance.
Statement of the Problem
Hospitals in Nasarawa State are facing significant challenges related to staff workload, which is increasingly becoming a barrier to effective patient care. Healthcare workers are often overburdened, which can result in delayed treatments, medical errors, and reduced quality of care. Despite the recognition of these issues, little research has been done to specifically assess how staff workload impacts patient care in the state. This study seeks to fill this gap by evaluating the effects of staff workload on patient care in hospitals in Nasarawa State.
Objectives of the Study
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To evaluate the impact of staff workload on the quality of patient care in hospitals in Nasarawa State.
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To assess the relationship between staff workload and job satisfaction in hospitals in Nasarawa State.
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To identify strategies for managing staff workload to improve patient care in hospitals in Nasarawa State.
Research Questions
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How does staff workload affect the quality of patient care in hospitals in Nasarawa State?
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What is the relationship between staff workload and job satisfaction among healthcare workers in hospitals in Nasarawa State?
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What strategies can be implemented to manage staff workload and improve patient care in hospitals in Nasarawa State?
Research Hypotheses
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High staff workload negatively impacts the quality of patient care in hospitals in Nasarawa State.
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There is a significant relationship between staff workload and job satisfaction in hospitals in Nasarawa State.
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Effective workload management strategies improve the quality of patient care in hospitals in Nasarawa State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on hospitals in Nasarawa State, both public and private, examining the relationship between staff workload and patient care. Limitations may include challenges in accessing detailed data on staff workload and patient care outcomes, as well as potential biases in self-reported job satisfaction levels.
Definitions of Terms
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Staff Workload: The total amount of work assigned to healthcare workers, often measured by the number of patients they are responsible for managing.
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Patient Care: The services provided to patients, including treatment, monitoring, and support, to maintain or improve health outcomes.
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Job Satisfaction: The degree to which healthcare workers feel content with their work, including factors such as workload, compensation, and work environment.
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Healthcare Workers: Individuals employed in healthcare settings, including doctors, nurses, and other medical staff responsible for patient care.
