Background of the Study
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and Nigeria is no exception. In fact, the prevalence of CVDs is on the rise in Nigeria, driven by factors such as poor lifestyle choices, increased stress levels, and a lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure (Oluwaseun et al., 2023). While much focus has been placed on the physical treatment of cardiovascular diseases, mental health, particularly depression, is a significant, often overlooked, component of the overall well-being of cardiac patients. Depression is commonly associated with cardiovascular conditions, as patients often face emotional distress due to the diagnosis, ongoing treatment, and lifestyle changes required (Sulaimon & Okwuosa, 2024). Depression has been shown to increase the risk of poor recovery, lower treatment adherence, and even worsen physical health outcomes (Okafor et al., 2023).
Nurses, as primary healthcare providers, play a key role in identifying mental health issues such as depression and offering support to patients during their treatment and recovery processes. Depression screening, which involves the use of tools to identify signs of depression in patients, is an essential nursing intervention that can significantly improve the mental health of patients, particularly those with chronic conditions like cardiovascular diseases. In Nasarawa State, a region that is grappling with healthcare access challenges and a growing burden of cardiovascular diseases, the role of nurses in screening for depression could be transformative in improving patient outcomes.
Despite the recognized link between mental health and cardiovascular health, depression screening by nurses is not universally practiced in Nigeria, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas like Nasarawa State. This study aims to examine the effect of depression screening by nurses on the mental health of cardiac patients in Nasarawa State, contributing to the evidence base that supports mental health interventions in cardiac care settings.
Statement of the Problem
Cardiac patients in Nasarawa State often face the dual challenge of managing their physical conditions while grappling with mental health issues, especially depression. Despite the potential impact of depression on recovery and overall health outcomes, there is limited research and practice related to systematic depression screening by nurses for these patients in the state. As a result, many patients may not receive the necessary mental health interventions, which could improve their quality of life and support better recovery outcomes. This study will examine the effect of depression screening by nurses on the mental health of cardiac patients in Nasarawa State, aiming to highlight the importance of mental health care in cardiac recovery.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study The study will focus on cardiac patients in selected hospitals in Nasarawa State and will examine the role of nurses in depression screening and its impact on patients' mental health. Limitations may include challenges in accurately assessing depression in cardiac patients due to comorbid physical symptoms and the potential for bias in self-reported mental health outcomes.
Definitions of Terms
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