Background of the study
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental health disorder that affects women following childbirth, characterized by symptoms such as persistent sadness, anxiety, irritability, fatigue, and changes in sleep or appetite (Miller et al., 2023). PPD affects a significant number of women globally, with estimates suggesting that approximately 10-20% of women may experience it within the first year after childbirth (Gonzalez et al., 2024). The condition not only affects the mother’s well-being but can also have negative effects on the infant, such as impairments in bonding and cognitive development. It is, therefore, crucial for healthcare providers, particularly nurses, to recognize and appropriately manage postpartum depression to ensure optimal outcomes for both the mother and child.
At Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWSUTH), which serves as a key healthcare provider in the region, it is essential that nurses are adequately equipped to identify and manage postpartum depression. However, studies indicate that many healthcare providers, including nurses, may lack sufficient awareness or training to effectively diagnose and manage PPD, which can delay interventions (Obi et al., 2023). The hospital’s multidisciplinary approach to maternal health is essential, but the role of nurses in addressing mental health issues like postpartum depression is pivotal in early detection and timely intervention. This study aims to appraise nurses' awareness and management strategies for postpartum depression at KWSUTH, focusing on identifying knowledge gaps and assessing the effectiveness of current practices.
Statement of the problem
Postpartum depression is often underdiagnosed and undertreated due to the lack of adequate awareness, screening, and management protocols among healthcare providers. Nurses, as the frontline caregivers in maternal health, have a unique opportunity to identify the early signs of PPD; however, inadequate training and knowledge may limit their ability to recognize the condition promptly. At Kwara State University Teaching Hospital, there is limited research on nurses' awareness of postpartum depression and their approaches to managing it. This gap could result in delayed or inadequate care for mothers experiencing PPD, potentially exacerbating the mental health issue and affecting mother-infant bonding. This study, therefore, seeks to examine nurses' awareness and management practices related to postpartum depression to improve care outcomes.
Objectives of the study
To assess the level of awareness of postpartum depression among nurses at Kwara State University Teaching Hospital.
To evaluate the management practices employed by nurses in handling postpartum depression.
To identify the challenges nurses face in managing postpartum depression at Kwara State University Teaching Hospital.
Research questions
What is the level of awareness of postpartum depression among nurses at Kwara State University Teaching Hospital?
How do nurses at Kwara State University Teaching Hospital manage postpartum depression in patients?
What challenges do nurses at Kwara State University Teaching Hospital face in managing postpartum depression?
Research hypotheses
Nurses at Kwara State University Teaching Hospital have limited awareness of postpartum depression.
There is a significant relationship between nurses' awareness of postpartum depression and their management practices.
Nurses at Kwara State University Teaching Hospital face significant challenges in managing postpartum depression due to inadequate training and resources.
Scope and limitations of the study
This study will focus on nurses working in the maternal and child health units of Kwara State University Teaching Hospital. The scope will be limited to assessing nurses' awareness, knowledge, and management practices regarding postpartum depression. One limitation of the study is the potential for response bias, as nurses may provide socially desirable answers. Additionally, the study's findings may not be generalizable to other hospitals outside Kwara State.
Definitions of terms
Postpartum depression (PPD): A mood disorder that affects women after childbirth, characterized by feelings of sadness, anxiety, and fatigue.
Awareness: The knowledge and understanding of postpartum depression, including its symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Management practices: The actions and interventions used by nurses to identify, support, and treat postpartum depression in women.
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