Background of the Study
Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs), such as the Ebola virus, Lassa fever, and most recently, COVID-19, pose a significant threat to global health. The rapid spread of such diseases, particularly in resource-limited settings, can overwhelm healthcare systems and lead to high mortality rates (Adebayo & Musa, 2023). Nurses, as primary healthcare providers, are at the forefront of managing and containing these diseases. Their preparedness—ranging from knowledge of symptoms to the use of personal protective equipment (PPE)—is crucial for minimizing the spread of infections and safeguarding public health (Olalekan & Bello, 2024).
Benue State, located in the Middle Belt of Nigeria, has experienced outbreaks of diseases like Lassa fever, which further exposes the vulnerability of healthcare systems to emerging infections (Okonkwo & Yusuf, 2024). However, healthcare infrastructure and training programs for nurses in the state remain insufficient, often leading to inadequate preparedness when EIDs arise (Ibrahim & Yakubu, 2024). The preparedness of nurses in handling such outbreaks is therefore critical to mitigating the impact of emerging infectious diseases in Benue State.
This study aims to assess the preparedness of nurses in handling emerging infectious diseases in Benue State hospitals, identifying gaps in knowledge, training, and resource availability that may affect their ability to respond effectively to EID outbreaks.
Statement of the Problem
Benue State healthcare facilities, despite experiencing periodic outbreaks of infectious diseases, continue to face challenges in adequately preparing nurses for emerging diseases. Factors such as inadequate training, insufficient PPE, and lack of knowledge about proper protocols to follow during an outbreak hinder the effectiveness of nurses in controlling and managing infectious disease outbreaks (Adebayo & Musa, 2024). The problem of unpreparedness not only compromises the safety of patients but also places healthcare workers at risk of contracting and spreading infectious diseases.
This study seeks to evaluate the preparedness of nurses in Benue State hospitals, identify specific challenges they face, and propose solutions to improve their readiness in managing emerging infectious diseases.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of preparedness of nurses in Benue State hospitals in handling emerging infectious diseases.
To identify the challenges nurses face in responding to outbreaks of infectious diseases.
To recommend strategies to improve nurses’ preparedness in handling emerging infectious diseases in Benue State hospitals.
Research Questions
How prepared are nurses in Benue State hospitals to handle emerging infectious diseases?
What challenges do nurses face in responding to emerging infectious diseases in Benue State hospitals?
What strategies can enhance nurses’ preparedness in managing emerging infectious diseases in Benue State?
Research Hypotheses
Nurses in Benue State hospitals face significant challenges in handling emerging infectious diseases.
Nurses with adequate training and resources are better prepared to manage emerging infectious diseases.
Implementing regular training and simulation exercises will improve nurses’ preparedness for handling emerging infectious diseases.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in hospitals in Benue State, assessing their preparedness, challenges, and strategies for handling emerging infectious diseases. Limitations may include difficulties in measuring preparedness, variability in available resources across hospitals, and reluctance from nurses to participate due to concerns about confidentiality or stigma.
Definitions of Terms
Emerging Infectious Diseases (EIDs): Diseases caused by newly identified pathogens or those whose incidence is increasing.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Specialized clothing or equipment worn by healthcare workers to protect against infectious agents.
Preparedness: The state of being ready to respond effectively to disease outbreaks, including adequate training, resources, and protocols.