Background of the Study
Suicide remains a major public health issue worldwide, with significant social, emotional, and economic implications (WHO, 2024). Psychiatric nurses play a critical role in suicide prevention due to their close interactions with patients, which enable early identification of suicidal behaviors and timely intervention (Adekunle et al., 2023).
In the context of Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, psychiatric nurses are pivotal in implementing suicide prevention strategies, including risk assessment, therapeutic communication, and crisis intervention. However, the extent of their impact in reducing suicide rates has not been fully explored. This study evaluates the role of psychiatric nurses in suicide prevention, contributing to the development of effective mental health policies and practices.
Statement of the Problem
The rising rates of suicide in Nigeria underscore the need for effective prevention strategies, particularly within psychiatric settings. Despite their critical role, psychiatric nurses often lack the resources, training, and support needed to effectively prevent suicide.
At Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, the absence of empirical data on the contributions of psychiatric nurses to suicide prevention hinders the implementation of evidence-based interventions. This study aims to address this gap by evaluating their role and identifying areas for improvement in suicide prevention practices.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the knowledge and skills of psychiatric nurses in suicide prevention at Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of psychiatric nurses’ interventions in suicide prevention.
3. To identify challenges faced by psychiatric nurses in implementing suicide prevention strategies.
Research Questions
1. What is the level of knowledge and skills of psychiatric nurses in suicide prevention at Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar?
2. How effective are psychiatric nurses’ interventions in preventing suicide?
3. What challenges do psychiatric nurses face in implementing suicide prevention strategies?
Research Hypotheses
1. Psychiatric nurses at Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, possess varying levels of knowledge and skills in suicide prevention.
2. Effective interventions by psychiatric nurses significantly reduce suicide rates in the hospital.
3. Challenges in implementing suicide prevention strategies negatively affect their effectiveness.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on psychiatric nurses employed at Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, between 2023 and 2025. Data will be collected through interviews, patient records, and assessments of intervention outcomes. Limitations include potential underreporting of suicide attempts and challenges in measuring the long-term impact of nursing interventions.
Definitions of Terms
• Suicide Prevention: Strategies aimed at reducing the risk of suicide through early identification and intervention.
• Psychiatric Nurses: Healthcare professionals trained to care for individuals with mental health disorders.
• Intervention: Actions taken to address or mitigate a specific problem or condition, such as suicidal ideation.
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