The Effect of Nurses’ Attitude on Postpartum Depression Recognition in Benue State
- Project Research
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a common mental health condition that affects women following childbirth, with serious implications for both the mother and child (Olawale et al., 2024). Early recognition of PPD is essential for timely intervention and improving the quality of life for affected women (Ogunrinde et al., 2023). Nurses play a pivotal role in recognizing the symptoms of postpartum depression and ensuring that mothers receive the necessary psychological and medical support (Musa et al., 2024).
In Benue State, as in many other parts of Nigeria, PPD often goes undiagnosed and untreated due to a lack of awareness among healthcare providers and cultural stigmas surrounding mental health (Nwankwo & Aliyu, 2023). Nurses' attitudes toward mental health and their ability to identify and respond to symptoms of postpartum depression significantly influence the likelihood of early diagnosis and treatment (Ibrahim & Ogbonna, 2024). This study will examine the effect of nurses’ attitudes on the recognition of PPD in postpartum women in Benue State, with a focus on how training, experience, and personal perceptions influence their ability to detect this condition.
Statement of the Problem
In Benue State, postpartum depression remains underrecognized and underreported among women in the postpartum period, partly due to insufficient training and negative attitudes toward mental health issues (Adeleke et al., 2024). The lack of early recognition of PPD can lead to prolonged suffering, poor maternal-infant bonding, and worse long-term outcomes for both mother and child (Sule et al., 2024). Nurses, as the primary caregivers during the postpartum period, must be adequately trained and have the right attitudes to recognize and address PPD in order to improve health outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
- To examine nurses' attitudes towards postpartum depression in Benue State healthcare facilities.
- To evaluate the effect of nurses' attitudes on the recognition of PPD in postpartum women.
- To recommend strategies for improving nurses' recognition and management of PPD in Benue State.
Research Questions
- What are the attitudes of nurses towards postpartum depression in Benue State healthcare facilities?
- How do nurses' attitudes impact the recognition of postpartum depression in postpartum women?
- What strategies can improve nurses' recognition and management of postpartum depression in Benue State?
Research Hypotheses
- Positive attitudes among nurses are associated with higher rates of postpartum depression recognition in Benue State.
- Nurses’ lack of knowledge and negative attitudes contribute to the underrecognition of postpartum depression in Benue State.
- Improved training on postpartum depression will lead to better recognition and management of the condition by nurses in Benue State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in healthcare facilities in Benue State, specifically those involved in postpartum care. Limitations include potential bias in self-reported data regarding nurses’ attitudes and the generalizability of the findings to other regions.
Definitions of Terms
- Postpartum Depression (PPD): A type of depression that occurs after childbirth, characterized by persistent sadness, fatigue, and feelings of inadequacy.
- Nurses' Attitudes: The beliefs and perceptions that nurses hold toward postpartum depression, which can affect their ability to recognize and respond to the condition.
