Background of the Study
Neonatal resuscitation is a critical skill that ensures the survival of newborns who experience difficulties in transitioning to life outside the womb, such as those who face respiratory distress, asphyxia, or other complications at birth (Fayemi & Adebayo, 2023). Early intervention through neonatal resuscitation can significantly reduce neonatal mortality, which remains a major health challenge in Nigeria, contributing to one of the highest infant mortality rates in sub-Saharan Africa (Akinleye et al., 2023). The World Health Organization (WHO) has established comprehensive neonatal resuscitation protocols, which include steps such as the assessment of airway, breathing, circulation, and other immediate care measures (Afolabi & Olumide, 2024).
In Nigeria, healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, are often the first responders during neonatal emergencies, making their understanding and adherence to these protocols crucial (Daramola et al., 2023). While training programs and guidelines for neonatal resuscitation have been implemented, several studies suggest that there are significant gaps in knowledge and skills among healthcare workers in Nigeria (Adeyemo & Olatunde, 2024). These gaps can result in delayed or inadequate care, leading to higher mortality rates. University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, as one of the leading healthcare facilities in the region, provides an ideal setting to examine the knowledge and adherence of nurses to neonatal resuscitation protocols.
This study seeks to evaluate the knowledge and adherence of nurses at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital to the neonatal resuscitation protocols, identifying strengths and areas that require further training or improvement to enhance neonatal care outcomes.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the availability of neonatal resuscitation guidelines and training programs, research indicates that many nurses in Nigeria lack adequate knowledge and fail to fully adhere to these protocols, leading to poor neonatal outcomes (Chukwu et al., 2023). The problem is particularly concerning in teaching hospitals like the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital, where the delivery of healthcare services is both high volume and complex. A critical gap exists in assessing how well these protocols are followed by nurses during neonatal emergencies, which can ultimately impact the survival and health of newborns.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of knowledge of nurses regarding neonatal resuscitation protocols at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
To evaluate the adherence of nurses to neonatal resuscitation protocols during neonatal emergencies.
To identify challenges faced by nurses in adhering to neonatal resuscitation protocols.
Research Questions
What is the level of knowledge of nurses regarding neonatal resuscitation protocols at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital?
How well do nurses adhere to neonatal resuscitation protocols in neonatal emergencies at the hospital?
What challenges do nurses face in adhering to neonatal resuscitation protocols during neonatal emergencies?
Research Hypotheses
There is a significant relationship between nurses' knowledge of neonatal resuscitation protocols and their adherence to these protocols.
Nurses who have received recent neonatal resuscitation training are more likely to adhere to the protocols than those who have not.
There are significant barriers that affect nurses' adherence to neonatal resuscitation protocols at University of Uyo Teaching Hospital.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working in the maternity and neonatal departments of University of Uyo Teaching Hospital. It will evaluate their knowledge, adherence to protocols, and the challenges they encounter. Limitations of the study include potential response bias, as nurses may provide socially desirable answers regarding their adherence to protocols, and the results may not be generalizable to smaller hospitals.
Definitions of Terms
Neonatal resuscitation: The immediate medical intervention to assist newborns in establishing adequate breathing and circulation following birth.
Protocols: Established guidelines that healthcare professionals follow during neonatal resuscitation to ensure the best outcomes for newborns.
Adherence: The extent to which nurses follow the neonatal resuscitation protocols during emergency situations.
Nurses: Healthcare professionals responsible for the care and management of neonates, including resuscitation when needed.
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