Background of the Study
The aging population in Kano State, as in many parts of Nigeria, faces numerous healthcare challenges that require specialized attention, especially in elderly care. Nurses are at the forefront of providing care to older adults who often have multiple chronic conditions, disabilities, and a decline in physical and mental health. The nursing profession is integral to the care of the elderly, as they provide services that encompass disease prevention, management, and rehabilitation (Ogundipe et al., 2024). Despite the importance of their role, nurses in Kano State face various challenges in providing optimal care to elderly individuals. These challenges can include inadequate training, insufficient resources, poor healthcare infrastructure, and the physical and emotional strain associated with managing the complex needs of the elderly.
This study seeks to investigate the challenges nurses encounter in elderly care, focusing on the factors that hinder effective care delivery in Kano State. Understanding these challenges is critical in developing targeted solutions to improve elderly care services.
Statement of the Problem
Elderly individuals in Kano State face numerous healthcare difficulties, yet nurses often work under challenging conditions. Limited resources, insufficient training, and high patient-to-nurse ratios contribute to difficulties in providing quality care. Additionally, the lack of specialized facilities and inadequate support systems exacerbate the challenges faced by nurses in elderly care. This study aims to identify and explore these challenges in depth to provide insights that can improve nursing care for older adults in Kano State.
Objectives of the Study
To identify the challenges faced by nurses in elderly care in Kano State.
To examine how these challenges impact the quality of care provided to elderly patients in Kano State.
To recommend strategies to address the challenges faced by nurses in elderly care in Kano State.
Research Questions
What are the main challenges nurses face in elderly care in Kano State?
How do these challenges affect the quality of care provided to elderly patients in Kano State?
What strategies can be implemented to address the challenges faced by nurses in elderly care in Kano State?
Research Hypotheses
Nurses in Kano State face significant challenges in providing care to elderly patients.
The challenges faced by nurses in elderly care negatively affect the quality of care for elderly individuals in Kano State.
Addressing the challenges faced by nurses will lead to improved elderly care in Kano State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on nurses working in both public and private healthcare settings in Kano State. Limitations may include the availability of a diverse sample of nurses and the subjectivity of self-reported challenges faced by the nurses.
Definitions of Terms
Elderly Care: Healthcare services provided to individuals aged 65 and older, which includes management of chronic conditions, rehabilitation, and general healthcare support.
Nurses: Healthcare professionals responsible for providing direct care to patients, particularly in areas such as disease prevention, rehabilitation, and health education.
Challenges: The difficulties or barriers faced by nurses in delivering effective care, such as inadequate resources, training, and support.