Background of the Study
Surgical site infections (SSIs) are one of the most common complications following surgery, contributing to prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and higher patient morbidity and mortality rates. SSIs occur when infections develop at the site of a surgical wound, often due to contamination during surgery or inadequate post-operative care (Ogunleye et al., 2023). Nurses are responsible for preventing, identifying, and managing these infections by following strict infection control protocols, ensuring proper wound care, and educating patients on post-operative care.
At Kogi State University Teaching Hospital, there has been an increase in reports of SSIs, indicating potential gaps in infection prevention strategies, including nurse preparedness. While the hospital has established protocols for managing SSIs, the preparedness of nurses to handle these infections effectively remains a critical concern. Research suggests that despite the knowledge of infection control measures, nurses may struggle with consistent adherence to guidelines, often due to time constraints, lack of resources, or insufficient training (Akinwale et al., 2024). Nurses' preparedness, therefore, is integral to preventing SSIs and ensuring positive patient outcomes post-surgery.
This study will assess the preparedness of nurses at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital in managing SSIs, evaluating their knowledge, adherence to protocols, and the challenges they face in implementing infection control practices.
Statement of the Problem
Surgical site infections remain a significant challenge in post-operative care, particularly in settings where infection prevention strategies may be poorly followed. Nurses at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital play a pivotal role in the prevention and management of SSIs. However, concerns regarding their preparedness, including knowledge and adherence to established protocols, highlight the need for further investigation into their practices and potential gaps in care.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of nurses' knowledge about surgical site infections and their prevention at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital.
To evaluate the preparedness of nurses in managing SSIs in post-operative patients.
To identify challenges and barriers nurses encounter in preventing and managing SSIs.
Research Questions
What is the level of knowledge among nurses about surgical site infections and their prevention at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital?
How prepared are nurses to manage surgical site infections in post-operative patients?
What barriers do nurses face in adhering to infection control protocols for preventing SSIs at Kogi State University Teaching Hospital?
Research Hypotheses
There is no significant relationship between nurses' knowledge of SSIs and their preparedness to manage post-operative infections.
Nurses who have received specialized training on infection prevention are more likely to prevent SSIs effectively.
Environmental factors, such as staffing levels and availability of resources, do not significantly affect nurses' ability to prevent SSIs.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses in the surgical and post-operative care units of Kogi State University Teaching Hospital. Limitations include the potential bias in self-reported data and a limited sample size that may not be representative of all nurses in the hospital.
Definitions of Terms
Surgical Site Infection (SSI): An infection that occurs at the site of a surgical wound.
Infection Control Protocols: A set of guidelines and procedures designed to prevent the spread of infections in healthcare settings.
Post-operative Care: Care provided to patients following surgery, including monitoring for complications such as infections.
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