Background of the Study
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a growing global health concern, particularly in developing countries where its management presents a significant challenge. In Nigeria, including Kano State, CKD has become a major public health issue due to the increasing incidence of hypertension, diabetes, and other predisposing conditions. Nurses play a pivotal role in the management of CKD patients, not only through direct care but also by providing education, monitoring, and supporting the management of the disease (Adeyemo et al., 2024).
In Kano State, healthcare professionals, especially nurses, are critical in managing CKD patients at various stages of the disease. Nurses assist in early detection, monitor kidney function, educate patients on lifestyle changes, and administer treatments such as dialysis. However, challenges such as limited resources, inadequate training, and insufficient patient awareness may hinder the effectiveness of these roles. Despite the increasing burden of CKD in the region, there is limited research on the specific contributions and challenges faced by nurses in managing CKD patients in Kano State. This study aims to evaluate the role of nurses in CKD management and the challenges they face in this context.
Statement of the Problem
Chronic Kidney Disease poses significant health and economic burdens in Kano State. While nurses play an essential role in managing CKD patients, including in the provision of treatment and support, the full scope of their contributions and the challenges they face in delivering care remain inadequately explored. With the growing prevalence of CKD and the increasing demand for care, it is crucial to understand how nurses are involved in the management of the disease and identify strategies to enhance their role in improving patient outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the role of nurses in the management of CKD patients in Kano State.
2. To identify the challenges faced by nurses in managing CKD patients in Kano State.
3. To assess the effectiveness of nurse-led interventions in improving CKD patient outcomes in Kano State.
Research Questions
1. What role do nurses play in the management of CKD patients in Kano State?
2. What challenges do nurses face in managing CKD patients in Kano State?
3. How effective are nurse-led interventions in improving the health outcomes of CKD patients in Kano State?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurses in Kano State play a significant role in the management of CKD patients through early detection, education, and monitoring.
2. Limited resources and inadequate training hinder the effective management of CKD by nurses in Kano State.
3. Nurse-led interventions significantly improve the health outcomes of CKD patients in Kano State.
Definitions of Terms
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): A condition characterized by gradual loss of kidney function, often caused by diabetes, hypertension, and other factors.
• Nurse-led Interventions: Healthcare initiatives or actions carried out by nurses aimed at improving patient care and outcomes, including education, monitoring, and counseling.
• Management of CKD: The process of diagnosing, treating, and monitoring CKD to prevent complications and improve quality of life.