An Evaluation of Nurses’ Role in Managing Pain Among Patients with Osteoarthritis in Bauchi State Healthcare Facilities
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease, particularly affecting older adults. It leads to joint pain, stiffness, and impaired function, significantly impacting the quality of life (Abdullahi et al., 2023). Pain management is a central aspect of OA care, and nurses play a crucial role in the assessment, management, and education of patients regarding pain relief strategies (Giwa et al., 2024). Pharmacological interventions, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, as well as non-pharmacological approaches like physical therapy, weight management, and complementary therapies, are commonly used to manage OA symptoms (Zubair et al., 2023).
In Bauchi State, where the burden of chronic diseases like OA is increasing, nurses’ roles in managing pain effectively are particularly important. However, the extent of nurses’ involvement in pain management for OA patients is not well-documented. This study aims to evaluate the role of nurses in managing pain among OA patients in Bauchi State healthcare facilities, with a particular focus on pain assessment techniques, treatment options, and patient education.
Statement of the Problem
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that often causes severe pain and disability, leading to diminished quality of life for affected individuals (Ahmed et al., 2024). While pharmacological treatments for pain are available, non-pharmacological interventions, such as lifestyle modifications and psychosocial support, can also play a critical role in managing OA pain. Nurses are in a prime position to provide these interventions, but the effectiveness of their contributions is not always clear. Research in Bauchi State regarding the role of nurses in pain management for OA patients is limited. This study seeks to fill that gap and provide insights into how nurses can improve pain management outcomes for OA patients in this region.
Objectives of the Study
- To evaluate the role of nurses in managing pain among patients with osteoarthritis in Bauchi State healthcare facilities.
- To assess the pain management strategies employed by nurses in treating OA patients.
- To examine the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in improving pain relief and quality of life for OA patients.
Research Questions
- What role do nurses play in managing pain among osteoarthritis patients in Bauchi State healthcare facilities?
- What pain management strategies are employed by nurses to treat OA patients?
- How effective are nurse-led interventions in improving pain relief and quality of life for OA patients?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses' involvement in pain management significantly improves pain relief outcomes for osteoarthritis patients in Bauchi State.
- The use of both pharmacological and non-pharmacological pain management strategies by nurses results in better pain control for OA patients.
- Osteoarthritis patients who receive comprehensive pain management education from nurses report better overall quality of life.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the pain management practices of nurses for osteoarthritis patients in healthcare facilities in Bauchi State. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported patient data on pain relief and quality of life and the variability in nursing practices across different healthcare facilities.
Definitions of Terms
- Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Pain Management Strategies: Approaches used to alleviate pain, including both pharmacological treatments (e.g., NSAIDs) and non-pharmacological interventions (e.g., physical therapy, patient education).
- Nurse-Led Interventions: Actions taken by nurses to improve patient care, including assessment, treatment administration, and patient education.
