Background of the Study
Hypertension is a prevalent condition globally, particularly in low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria, where lifestyle factors such as poor diet and high salt consumption contribute significantly to its increasing rates (Abiola et al., 2023). In the management of hypertension, one of the most crucial interventions is dietary modification, with a focus on reducing salt intake. Excessive sodium consumption has been linked to the worsening of hypertension, and reducing salt intake is considered a cornerstone of effective hypertension management (Musa et al., 2024).
In Ogun State, where the prevalence of hypertension is high, there is a growing recognition of the role nurses can play in counseling patients on dietary changes. Nurse-led counseling has been identified as a potentially effective approach to promote health behavior change, especially in the context of chronic conditions like hypertension (Ogunlaja & Olowu, 2024). Nurses, with their frequent patient contact, are in an ideal position to provide counseling on diet modification, including salt reduction, and to educate patients about the risks of uncontrolled hypertension.
Despite the potential benefits of nurse-led counseling, there is a lack of extensive research evaluating its effectiveness in reducing salt intake among hypertensive patients in Ogun State. Studies suggest that patient education, particularly when led by nurses, can lead to significant improvements in health behaviors, such as reducing salt consumption (Adekunle et al., 2025). However, the effectiveness of these interventions can be influenced by various factors, including the knowledge and skills of the nurses, the patient’s readiness to change, and the support systems available to them.
This study aims to assess the effectiveness of nurse-led counseling in reducing salt intake among hypertensive patients in Ogun State, with a focus on understanding the strategies employed by nurses and evaluating patient outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
Hypertension remains a significant health concern in Ogun State, with many patients failing to adhere to recommended dietary changes, particularly reducing salt intake. Nurses have been recognized as crucial in promoting healthy behaviors, but there is insufficient evidence on the effectiveness of nurse-led counseling in modifying patients’ dietary habits. Moreover, the barriers to successful dietary change, such as cultural factors, patient knowledge, and socio-economic constraints, are not well documented in the context of Ogun State (Sulaimon et al., 2023).
This study seeks to evaluate the role of nurse-led counseling in reducing salt intake and improving hypertension management in Ogun State, addressing gaps in the existing literature regarding the impact of counseling interventions. By understanding the factors that contribute to the success or failure of these interventions, the study aims to provide actionable insights for improving patient outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
1. To evaluate the effectiveness of nurse-led counseling in reducing salt intake among hypertensive patients in Ogun State.
2. To identify the strategies employed by nurses in counseling hypertensive patients on salt reduction.
3. To explore the factors influencing the success of nurse-led counseling in dietary change among hypertensive patients.
Research Questions
1. How effective is nurse-led counseling in reducing salt intake among hypertensive patients in Ogun State?
2. What strategies do nurses employ when counseling hypertensive patients on reducing salt intake?
3. What factors influence the success of nurse-led counseling on dietary change among hypertensive patients?
Research Hypotheses
1. Nurse-led counseling significantly reduces salt intake in hypertensive patients in Ogun State.
2. The effectiveness of nurse-led counseling is influenced by the frequency and quality of counseling sessions.
3. Socio-cultural factors significantly impact the success of nurse-led counseling in reducing salt intake among hypertensive patients.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on hypertensive patients in Ogun State, evaluating the role of nurse-led counseling in dietary change, specifically reducing salt intake. Limitations include potential bias in patient self-reporting of dietary habits and the generalizability of the findings beyond Ogun State. Additionally, time and resource constraints may affect the depth of data collection and the number of participants involved.
Definitions of Terms
1. Nurse-led Counseling: Educational and behavioral guidance provided by nurses to patients, aiming to improve health outcomes.
2. Salt Intake: The consumption of sodium, primarily through dietary salt, which is linked to the development and exacerbation of hypertension.
3. Hypertensive Patients: Individuals diagnosed with hypertension, a condition characterized by abnormally high blood pressure.
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