Background of the study
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, and it is one of the most common childhood neurological conditions globally (Bourgeois et al., 2024). In Nigeria, the prevalence of epilepsy in children remains significant, and the management of the condition is often complex due to factors such as late diagnosis, inadequate access to healthcare, and limited awareness among healthcare professionals (Akinmoladun et al., 2023). Nurses, as integral members of the healthcare team, play a critical role in the management of children with epilepsy, particularly in terms of administering medications, monitoring the frequency and type of seizures, providing education to families, and coordinating care with other healthcare providers.
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH) in Bauchi serves as a regional referral center, providing care to children with a variety of conditions, including epilepsy. Despite the growing burden of epilepsy, there is limited research on the knowledge and management practices of nurses working with children with epilepsy in Nigerian hospitals, especially in northern Nigeria. Nurses may face challenges in managing epilepsy due to limited training on the condition, lack of updated treatment protocols, and insufficient access to antiepileptic drugs (Yusuf et al., 2023). Proper management requires that nurses possess up-to-date knowledge of the types of seizures, triggers, and the appropriate medication regimens, as well as non-pharmacological interventions.
This study will examine the level of knowledge of nurses at ATBUTH regarding epilepsy in children and evaluate their management practices. It aims to provide insights into the gaps in knowledge and the barriers nurses face in managing epilepsy, which could lead to recommendations for improving care and training programs.
Statement of the problem
Epilepsy in children is a major health concern in Nigeria, but many healthcare providers, particularly nurses, lack comprehensive knowledge about the condition and its management. At ATBUTH, nurses working in pediatric wards may not be adequately trained in the latest protocols for epilepsy management. This knowledge gap, coupled with a lack of resources and training, may lead to poor patient outcomes and delayed or inappropriate interventions. Assessing the knowledge and management practices of nurses is essential to improving the care of children with epilepsy in the hospital.
Objectives of the study
To assess nurses’ knowledge of epilepsy and its management in children at ATBUTH.
To evaluate the management practices of nurses in caring for children with epilepsy at ATBUTH.
To identify challenges faced by nurses in the management of epilepsy in children at ATBUTH.
Research questions
What is the level of knowledge of nurses at ATBUTH regarding epilepsy in children?
What are the management practices employed by nurses at ATBUTH in caring for children with epilepsy?
What challenges do nurses at ATBUTH face in managing epilepsy in children?
Research hypotheses
Nurses at ATBUTH have insufficient knowledge of epilepsy and its management in children.
There is a significant relationship between nurses' knowledge of epilepsy and their management practices.
Nurses at ATBUTH face significant challenges in managing epilepsy in children due to inadequate training and resources.
Scope and limitations of the study
The study will focus on nurses working in pediatric care units at ATBUTH. It will evaluate their knowledge of epilepsy and the management practices they use in caring for children with epilepsy. Limitations of the study include potential biases in self-reported data regarding nurses’ management practices, and the limited scope of the study to a single hospital, which may not be representative of all hospitals in the region.
Definitions of terms
Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Management practices: The methods and strategies used by nurses to care for children with epilepsy, including medication administration and patient education.
Knowledge: The understanding and awareness of nurses regarding the causes, symptoms, and treatment of epilepsy in children.
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