Background of the Study
Cervical cancer remains one of the most common cancers affecting women globally, with a high prevalence in developing countries like Nigeria (Eze et al., 2023). The introduction of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine has revolutionized the prevention of cervical cancer, as HPV infection is the leading cause of the disease (Adeyemi & Ogunyemi, 2024). In Nigeria, the government, in collaboration with international health organizations, has introduced vaccination programs aimed at reducing the incidence of cervical cancer (Akinmoladun & Bello, 2023). However, despite the availability of the HPV vaccine, the uptake remains low, particularly in certain regions of the country, due to factors such as lack of awareness, misconceptions, and inadequate healthcare delivery (Olawole et al., 2023).
Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a vital role in the promotion of vaccination programs, including cervical cancer vaccination. They are responsible for educating patients, administering vaccines, and ensuring adherence to vaccination schedules (Fadeyi et al., 2024). However, there is limited research on nurses' awareness of cervical cancer vaccination guidelines and their adherence to these guidelines in Nigerian hospitals, particularly at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, which serves as a major teaching and research institution. Understanding the level of awareness and adherence among nurses is essential for improving the effectiveness of vaccination programs and increasing vaccination coverage.
This study aims to investigate nurses' awareness of cervical cancer vaccination guidelines and their adherence to these guidelines at Lagos University Teaching Hospital. By assessing their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cervical cancer vaccination, the study will identify gaps in awareness and adherence and provide recommendations to improve vaccination uptake (Akinmoladun et al., 2024).
Statement of the Problem
Cervical cancer is a major public health issue in Nigeria, but despite the availability of the HPV vaccine, the coverage of vaccination programs remains low. Nurses are integral to the success of vaccination initiatives, yet their awareness of cervical cancer vaccination guidelines and adherence to these guidelines is unclear. Gaps in knowledge and practices may hinder the effective implementation of vaccination programs, limiting the potential impact on reducing cervical cancer incidence. Therefore, investigating nurses' awareness and adherence to cervical cancer vaccination guidelines at Lagos University Teaching Hospital is crucial for improving vaccination efforts.
Objectives of the Study
To assess nurses' awareness of cervical cancer vaccination guidelines at Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
To evaluate nurses' adherence to cervical cancer vaccination guidelines at the hospital.
To identify factors influencing nurses' awareness and adherence to cervical cancer vaccination guidelines.
Research Questions
What is the level of awareness among nurses regarding cervical cancer vaccination guidelines at Lagos University Teaching Hospital?
How well do nurses adhere to cervical cancer vaccination guidelines at the hospital?
What factors influence nurses' awareness and adherence to cervical cancer vaccination guidelines?
Research Hypotheses
There is a significant relationship between nurses' awareness of cervical cancer vaccination guidelines and their adherence to these guidelines.
Nurses with more years of experience are more likely to adhere to cervical cancer vaccination guidelines than those with less experience.
Lack of training significantly affects nurses' adherence to cervical cancer vaccination guidelines.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, investigating their awareness and adherence to cervical cancer vaccination guidelines. It will assess the knowledge, adherence, and factors influencing their practices. Limitations include potential response bias, as nurses may overstate their adherence to guidelines, and the study's findings may not be generalizable to other healthcare settings in Nigeria.
Definitions of Terms
Cervical cancer: A type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix, primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV).
HPV vaccination: The administration of vaccines designed to protect against the human papillomavirus, which is a leading cause of cervical cancer.
Adherence: The degree to which nurses follow established guidelines and protocols for cervical cancer vaccination.
Nurses: Healthcare professionals who administer medical care and educate patients, including in vaccination programs.
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