Background of the Study
Medication adherence is crucial in the management of cardiac diseases, as consistent medication intake helps reduce complications, improve patient outcomes, and enhance overall quality of life. However, non-adherence to prescribed medication is a significant issue, particularly among cardiac patients, and can result in adverse health outcomes, including recurrent hospitalizations, worsening of symptoms, and even death (Ogunlade & Adebayo, 2023). Effective communication between nurses and patients has been recognized as a key factor influencing medication adherence. Nurses, who interact with patients frequently, are in a unique position to provide education, motivation, and support to ensure that patients follow their medication regimen.
In Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ogun State, a significant number of cardiac patients have been reported to experience challenges in adhering to their prescribed medications, despite receiving medical care from a well-established institution (Oluwole et al., 2024). While there is general awareness of the importance of medication adherence, factors such as poor understanding of medication instructions, lack of motivation, and limited knowledge about the implications of non-adherence contribute to the issue. Effective communication skills, particularly in the nursing context, are believed to play a pivotal role in overcoming these barriers (Adebola & Akinwale, 2023).
Studies have shown that when nurses employ strong communication strategies—such as clear explanations, empathy, and active listening—patients are more likely to understand their treatment plan and feel motivated to follow it (Smith et al., 2024). These strategies not only increase adherence but also improve patient satisfaction and trust in healthcare providers. Given the rising burden of cardiac diseases in Nigeria, it is essential to explore the impact of nurses’ communication skills on medication adherence in Babcock University Teaching Hospital, to determine whether improved communication could potentially reduce medication non-adherence and improve patient outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
In Babcock University Teaching Hospital, Ogun State, despite the availability of advanced treatment options for cardiac patients, medication adherence remains a significant issue. Non-adherence to prescribed medications leads to adverse health outcomes, including increased hospital admissions and deteriorating health conditions. While various factors contribute to non-adherence, poor communication between nurses and patients has been identified as a potential barrier. Nurses’ communication skills are essential in ensuring that patients understand the importance of their medication regimen and are motivated to follow it. However, the impact of nurses' communication skills on medication adherence has not been adequately investigated in this hospital setting. The lack of comprehensive research in this area calls for an in-depth analysis of how communication practices influence medication adherence among cardiac patients.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study This study will focus on cardiac patients at Babcock University Teaching Hospital in Ogun State, assessing the role of nurses' communication skills in influencing medication adherence. It will explore communication strategies, patient understanding, and adherence levels. The study is limited to a specific hospital setting and may not be applicable to other healthcare institutions in Nigeria. Additionally, the research may face limitations related to the self-reported nature of patient adherence and the potential bias in responses.
Definitions of Terms
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