Background of the Study
Amputation is often the result of trauma, severe infection, or chronic disease such as diabetes, and it significantly impacts a patient’s physical, emotional, and social well-being (Ibrahim & Yakubu, 2023). In Niger State, the prevalence of amputations, especially related to untreated infections and diabetes, is on the rise, which places a growing demand on healthcare systems to provide adequate post-amputation care (Olalekan & Bello, 2024). The Federal Medical Centre in Minna, Niger State, is one of the key institutions offering healthcare to individuals undergoing amputations. Post-amputation care, including pain management, wound care, physical rehabilitation, and psychological support, is essential for improving patient outcomes (Adebayo & Musa, 2023).
Nurses play a crucial role in the post-amputation phase by providing not only physical care but also offering psychological support and helping patients reintegrate into their communities (Usman & Akinwale, 2024). The process of reintegration is complex, requiring a multidisciplinary approach, and nurses are often the first line of support for patients in overcoming both physical and psychological challenges after amputation (Okonkwo & Yusuf, 2023). However, the specific role of nurses in post-amputation care and patient reintegration in Niger State has not been adequately explored.
This study aims to evaluate the role of nurses in providing post-amputation care and supporting patient reintegration at the Federal Medical Centre in Minna, Niger State, identifying challenges and gaps in the current care model.
Statement of the Problem
Post-amputation care is often suboptimal due to factors such as insufficient training, inadequate resources, and the lack of comprehensive rehabilitation programs in Niger State. Nurses at the Federal Medical Centre, Minna, are tasked with managing complex post-amputation cases, but they face barriers that hinder their ability to deliver high-quality care (Adebayo & Musa, 2024). The absence of structured reintegration programs, the lack of prosthetic devices, and the emotional burden placed on patients after amputation further complicate the recovery process.
This study seeks to assess the extent of nurses' involvement in post-amputation care, the challenges they face, and the strategies they employ to facilitate patient reintegration into society.
Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the role of nurses in post-amputation care and patient reintegration at the Federal Medical Centre, Minna.
To identify the challenges faced by nurses in providing post-amputation care in Niger State.
To recommend strategies for improving post-amputation care and patient reintegration processes in Niger State.
Research Questions
What is the role of nurses in post-amputation care and patient reintegration at the Federal Medical Centre, Minna?
What challenges do nurses face in providing post-amputation care in Niger State?
What strategies can improve post-amputation care and patient reintegration in Niger State?
Research Hypotheses
Nurses at the Federal Medical Centre, Minna, play a significant role in post-amputation care and patient reintegration.
Nurses face significant challenges in providing post-amputation care in Niger State.
Implementing structured rehabilitation and psychological support programs will improve patient reintegration after amputation.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on nurses' roles in post-amputation care at the Federal Medical Centre, Minna. Limitations may include a lack of comprehensive patient data, variability in nurses' training levels, and limited resources for post-amputation rehabilitation in the healthcare facility.
Definitions of Terms
Post-Amputation Care: The medical, psychological, and rehabilitation services provided to patients following the removal of a limb.
Reintegration: The process by which patients return to a functional role within their family and community after undergoing an amputation.
Prosthetics: Artificial devices that replace missing body parts, such as limbs.