Background of the Study
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most severe injuries resulting in life-altering consequences for individuals, leading to long-term mobility impairments, loss of independence, and diminished quality of life (Chukwudi & Nwabueze, 2023). In Nigeria, the incidence of spinal cord injuries, especially due to trauma from accidents and violence, is a growing public health concern, and the case is no different in Borno State (Ibrahim & Akinyele, 2024). In the aftermath of such injuries, patients often face significant mobility challenges and require comprehensive rehabilitation to regain function and independence. Rehabilitation for spinal cord injury patients is complex and requires a multi-disciplinary approach, with nurses playing a critical role in the early stages of recovery (Adebayo & Yakubu, 2023).
In Borno State, access to quality healthcare services, including specialized rehabilitation for SCI patients, remains limited due to the challenging socio-political environment and ongoing security issues in the region. However, nurses working in Borno’s hospitals are often the first caregivers for SCI patients, providing essential care, such as wound management, mobility training, psychological support, and physical therapy interventions (Usman & Bello, 2023). Nurses are integral in implementing rehabilitation programs, supporting mobility exercises, and guiding patients through adaptive strategies for overcoming the challenges posed by their injuries (Adebayo & Musa, 2023).
Despite the importance of their role, the specific contributions of nurses in improving mobility outcomes for SCI patients in Borno State remain underexplored. This study aims to investigate how nurses contribute to improving mobility in SCI patients, identify the challenges they face, and propose strategies to enhance their role in improving mobility outcomes in the region.
Statement of the Problem
Spinal cord injuries in Borno State present substantial healthcare challenges due to the scarcity of rehabilitation facilities, lack of specialized care, and security issues hindering access to rehabilitation services. Although nurses play a pivotal role in the rehabilitation of SCI patients, their involvement in improving mobility outcomes is not well-documented. The lack of standardized care protocols and rehabilitation programs further exacerbates the situation, leading to poor mobility outcomes for SCI patients in Borno State (Adebayo & Yakubu, 2024). Thus, understanding the nurses' role in mobility improvement for SCI patients is crucial for improving recovery outcomes in the state.
Objectives of the Study
To investigate the role of nurses in improving mobility for spinal cord injury patients in Borno State hospitals.
To identify the challenges nurses face in providing mobility assistance to SCI patients.
To recommend strategies to enhance nurses' role in improving mobility outcomes for SCI patients in Borno State hospitals.
Research Questions
What is the role of nurses in improving mobility for spinal cord injury patients in Borno State hospitals?
What challenges do nurses face in enhancing mobility for SCI patients in Borno State?
What strategies can improve nurses' role in improving mobility outcomes for SCI patients in Borno State hospitals?
Research Hypotheses
Nurses in Borno State hospitals significantly contribute to improving mobility outcomes for spinal cord injury patients.
Nurses face significant challenges in providing effective mobility assistance to SCI patients in Borno State hospitals.
Enhancing training and resources for nurses will improve mobility outcomes for SCI patients in Borno State hospitals.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on nurses working in hospitals in Borno State and their role in enhancing mobility for SCI patients. Limitations may include regional disparities in healthcare infrastructure, variability in nursing education and training, and difficulties in accessing patients due to the security situation in some parts of the state.
Definitions of Terms
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI): Damage to the spinal cord resulting in a loss of mobility or sensation in parts of the body below the site of the injury.
Mobility Improvement: Efforts and interventions aimed at enhancing physical movement and function in patients with spinal cord injuries.
Nurse-led Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation interventions, including physical therapy, mobility training, and patient education, led by nursing professionals.
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