An Assessment of Pediatric Nurses’ Knowledge of Growth Monitoring in Gombe State
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- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
Growth monitoring is a critical component of pediatric care, focusing on the tracking of a child's physical development to identify potential health issues early (Adepoju et al., 2023). Growth assessments, such as measurements of weight, height, and head circumference, are essential in detecting undernutrition, growth disorders, and other health problems that can impact a child's well-being (Tijani et al., 2024). Pediatric nurses play an important role in ensuring that growth monitoring is conducted regularly and accurately, as they often serve as the first point of contact for parents and caregivers seeking healthcare for their children.
In Gombe State, where nutritional deficiencies and childhood diseases are prevalent, effective growth monitoring can help prevent the development of long-term health complications. However, there is limited research on the knowledge and practices of pediatric nurses regarding growth monitoring in this region. This study seeks to assess the level of knowledge and skills of pediatric nurses in Gombe State on growth monitoring techniques and their impact on child health outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the importance of growth monitoring in pediatric care, there is concern about the adequacy of knowledge and practices among pediatric nurses in Gombe State. Studies have suggested that gaps in knowledge, poor training, and limited resources may hinder the effectiveness of growth monitoring, leading to undiagnosed cases of malnutrition and growth-related disorders (El-Mekki et al., 2023). This study aims to assess the level of knowledge among pediatric nurses regarding growth monitoring and its potential impact on childhood health in Gombe State.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess the level of pediatric nurses' knowledge of growth monitoring in Gombe State.
- To evaluate the practices of pediatric nurses in growth monitoring and the documentation of growth data.
- To identify barriers to effective growth monitoring among pediatric nurses in Gombe State.
Research Questions
- What is the level of pediatric nurses' knowledge of growth monitoring in Gombe State?
- How effectively do pediatric nurses in Gombe State perform growth monitoring?
- What are the barriers to effective growth monitoring among pediatric nurses in Gombe State?
Research Hypotheses
- Pediatric nurses in Gombe State have inadequate knowledge of growth monitoring.
- There is a significant association between the level of pediatric nurses' knowledge of growth monitoring and the accuracy of their practices.
- Barriers such as insufficient training and lack of resources negatively impact the effectiveness of growth monitoring in Gombe State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on pediatric nurses working in healthcare facilities across Gombe State. Data will be collected through surveys, interviews, and observation of growth monitoring practices. Limitations include the potential for bias in self-reported knowledge and the variability in practices across different healthcare facilities.
Definitions of Terms
- Growth Monitoring: The regular measurement and tracking of a child’s physical development, including weight, height, and head circumference.
- Pediatric Nurses: Registered nurses who specialize in providing care to children and adolescents.
- Malnutrition: A condition that occurs when a child’s intake of nutrients is insufficient to meet their needs, impacting growth and development.
