Background of the Study
Heart failure (HF) is a chronic and debilitating condition that significantly affects patients' physical and psychological well-being. The prevalence of HF is increasing globally, leading to a higher burden on healthcare systems and a greater need for comprehensive patient care. In Nigeria, HF remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, necessitating effective management strategies that encompass both medical and psychosocial aspects.
Nurses play a pivotal role in the care of HF patients, often serving as the primary point of contact within healthcare settings. The quality of nursing care, particularly the demonstration of empathy, has been identified as a crucial factor influencing patient outcomes. Empathy in nursing involves understanding and sharing the feelings of patients, which can lead to improved patient satisfaction, adherence to treatment plans, and overall psychological well-being.
A study by BMC Nursing highlighted that patients' perceptions of nursing care significantly impact their psychological state, suggesting that empathetic interactions can alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression associated with HF. However, there is a paucity of research focusing on the specific impact of cardiac nurses' empathy on the psychological well-being of HF patients in Nigerian healthcare settings, particularly in institutions like Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara.
Statement of the Problem
Despite advancements in medical treatments for HF, patients often experience psychological distress, including anxiety, depression, and a diminished quality of life. These psychological challenges can adversely affect disease management and prognosis. While medical interventions address the physiological aspects of HF, the psychological needs of patients are frequently underemphasized.
Empathy from healthcare providers, especially nurses, is essential in addressing these psychological needs. However, there is limited empirical evidence examining how cardiac nurses' empathy specifically influences the psychological well-being of HF patients in the Nigerian context. Understanding this relationship is crucial for developing targeted interventions to enhance patient care and outcomes.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on cardiac nurses and heart failure patients at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara. It will assess nurses' empathy levels and patients' psychological well-being, exploring the relationship between these variables. Limitations may include self-reported data, which could introduce bias, and the study's confinement to a single institution, potentially affecting the generalizability of the findings.
Definitions of Terms
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