Background of the Study
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death among children worldwide, including in Nigeria. Pediatric cancer patients often face significant physical, emotional, and psychological challenges as they undergo treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Oncology nurses play a vital role in managing these challenges by not only administering treatment but also supporting the overall well-being of pediatric patients and their families. Their role goes beyond medical care; they are critical in improving the quality of life (QoL) for children by providing emotional support, managing symptoms, and facilitating communication between patients, families, and healthcare teams.
At Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Kaduna State, pediatric oncology patients are treated for various types of cancer, including leukemia, lymphoma, and solid tumors. Given the complex nature of pediatric cancer treatment, oncology nurses at ABUTH are tasked with providing comprehensive care that enhances the quality of life for young patients. The emotional burden on children and their families, combined with the side effects of cancer treatments, necessitates holistic care approaches to ensure both physical and emotional well-being.
This study will examine how oncology nurses at ABUTH contribute to improving the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients. The research will focus on aspects such as symptom management (pain, nausea, fatigue), emotional support, patient and family education, and overall patient outcomes. Understanding the contributions of oncology nurses to the quality of life of pediatric cancer patients at ABUTH will help inform future practices and strategies to enhance patient care.
Statement of the Problem (300 words)
Pediatric cancer patients often face a range of physical, emotional, and psychological challenges, including the side effects of treatment, chronic pain, and the stress associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment. Oncology nurses are critical in addressing these challenges and improving the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients. However, there is limited research on the specific role that oncology nurses play in improving the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients in Nigerian hospitals, particularly at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Kaduna State.
The quality of life for pediatric cancer patients can be significantly impacted by the emotional and psychological burden of the disease, as well as the physical side effects of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Oncology nurses have the potential to alleviate some of these challenges by offering patient-centered care, providing pain management, delivering psychological support, and ensuring open communication with the patient’s family. However, the role of oncology nurses in improving pediatric cancer patients' quality of life at ABUTH has not been adequately explored.
This research seeks to examine the specific ways in which oncology nurses at ABUTH contribute to the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients. By understanding the strategies and interventions that nurses use, this study aims to provide insights that can be used to improve nursing care for pediatric cancer patients in Nigerian hospitals.
Objectives of the Study
1. To examine the role of oncology nurses in improving the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Kaduna State.
2. To identify the challenges faced by oncology nurses in improving the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients.
3. To evaluate the impact of oncology nurses' interventions on the emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of pediatric cancer patients.
Research Questions
1. How do oncology nurses at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital improve the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients?
2. What challenges do oncology nurses face in improving the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients?
3. What is the impact of oncology nurses' interventions on the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of pediatric cancer patients?
Research Hypotheses
1. H₀: Oncology nurses do not significantly improve the quality of life for pediatric cancer patients at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital.
2. H₀: Oncology nurses' interventions do not significantly affect the emotional, psychological, and physical well-being of pediatric cancer patients.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on pediatric cancer patients at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Kaduna State. Limitations may include variations in individual nurse practices, the subjective nature of quality of life measurements, and the challenges associated with accessing sensitive information about pediatric cancer care.
Definitions of Terms
• Oncology Nurses' Role: The responsibilities and interventions carried out by nurses in oncology care, including symptom management, emotional support, education, and communication with patients and families.
• Quality of Life (QoL): The overall well-being of a patient, including physical health, emotional and psychological health, and the ability to engage in daily activities.
• Pediatric Cancer Patients: Children and adolescents diagnosed with cancer, receiving treatment for various types of cancers, such as leukemia, lymphoma, and solid tumors.
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