Background of the Study
Cardiac emergencies, including acute myocardial infarctions, heart failure, and arrhythmias, require immediate and appropriate medical intervention to prevent mortality and morbidity. In many parts of Nigeria, primary healthcare centers (PHCs) are the first point of contact for individuals with cardiovascular complaints. However, the preparedness of healthcare providers, particularly nurses, to manage these emergencies effectively, is often a subject of concern (Afolabi et al., 2023). In Taraba State, a region in northeastern Nigeria, the healthcare system faces challenges, including inadequate resources, limited access to specialized care, and insufficient training for healthcare providers, particularly in rural and underserved areas (Ogunbode et al., 2023). Despite the rising burden of cardiovascular diseases, the preparedness of nurses in PHCs to handle cardiac emergencies is under-researched. Nurses, being at the frontline, need appropriate training, knowledge, and resources to manage such conditions effectively. Their preparedness directly affects patient outcomes, especially in the early stages of cardiac emergencies.
The role of nurses in the management of cardiac emergencies in PHCs has gained attention in developed countries, but studies focusing on Nigeria are few and scattered (Dada et al., 2024). In Taraba State, the scarcity of healthcare personnel, coupled with inadequate infrastructure and training programs, might compromise the capacity of nurses to respond to cardiac emergencies (Ibrahim & Lawal, 2025). Effective management in the first few hours of a cardiac event can significantly influence patient outcomes, and understanding the preparedness of nurses is crucial in addressing the challenges in these areas. This study seeks to explore nurses' preparedness to manage cardiac emergencies in PHCs in Taraba State, assessing their level of training, available resources, and confidence in handling such critical situations.
Statement of the Problem
Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, and primary healthcare centers serve as the first point of care for many patients experiencing cardiac emergencies. However, the preparedness of nurses in these settings to effectively manage such emergencies is not well understood, especially in Taraba State, where healthcare access is limited. There is a potential gap in the nurses’ training, resources, and support systems needed for timely and effective intervention during cardiac emergencies. This study aims to investigate how well-prepared nurses in primary healthcare centers in Taraba State are to manage cardiac emergencies, focusing on their skills, knowledge, and available resources.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the preparedness of nurses in primary healthcare centers in Taraba State to manage cardiac emergencies.
2. To examine the level of training and resources available to nurses in managing cardiac emergencies in primary healthcare centers.
3. To explore the challenges faced by nurses in managing cardiac emergencies in primary healthcare centers in Taraba State.
Research Questions
1. To what extent are nurses in primary healthcare centers in Taraba State prepared to manage cardiac emergencies?
2. What level of training and resources do nurses in Taraba State have for managing cardiac emergencies?
3. What challenges do nurses in Taraba State face in managing cardiac emergencies in primary healthcare centers?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurses in primary healthcare centers in Taraba State are inadequately prepared to manage cardiac emergencies.
2. The level of training and resources available to nurses in Taraba State significantly affects their preparedness to manage cardiac emergencies.
3. Nurses in Taraba State face significant challenges in managing cardiac emergencies in primary healthcare centers.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in primary healthcare centers across Taraba State. It will investigate their preparedness to manage cardiac emergencies, the available resources, and training. The study will be limited by geographical constraints, time limitations, and the availability of participants. Since primary healthcare centers vary in resources, the results may not be generalized to all regions of Nigeria.
Definitions of Terms
• Cardiac Emergencies: Medical conditions that require immediate treatment to prevent serious harm or death, including heart attacks, arrhythmias, and heart failure.
• Preparedness: The readiness of nurses to manage cardiac emergencies, which includes their knowledge, skills, training, and availability of resources.
• Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs): Healthcare facilities that provide essential health services to local communities, including preventative, diagnostic, and emergency care.
• Taraba State: A state in northeastern Nigeria, characterized by diverse cultures and health challenges.
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
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