An examination of nurses' knowledge and practice of temperature management in post-anesthesia care at Taraba State Specialist Hospital

An examination of nurses' knowledge and practice of temperature management in post-anesthesia care at Taraba State Specialist Hospital

Background of the Study

Temperature management is a critical aspect of post-anesthesia care, as patients are vulnerable to fluctuations in body temperature following surgical procedures. Hypothermia, a common complication, can occur due to anesthesia-induced vasodilation, impaired thermoregulation, and exposure to cold environments in the operating room (Chukwuma & Nwachukwu, 2024). Post-anesthesia hypothermia can lead to increased risk of infection, delayed wound healing, and extended recovery times (Adebisi & Akindele, 2023). Conversely, hyperthermia in post-anesthesia patients is also a significant concern, potentially signaling infections or malignant hyperthermia, which requires urgent medical intervention (Salim & Olatunde, 2024).

In many Nigerian hospitals, including Taraba State Specialist Hospital, the management of temperature in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) relies heavily on nursing staff. Nurses are responsible for monitoring patients' vital signs, detecting temperature abnormalities, and initiating appropriate interventions (Adeyemo et al., 2023). However, despite the importance of temperature regulation, there is limited research on nurses’ knowledge and practice regarding temperature management in PACUs within Nigerian hospitals. Given the potential complications associated with poor temperature management, this study aims to examine nurses’ knowledge and practice of temperature management in the post-anesthesia recovery period at Taraba State Specialist Hospital.

Statement of the Problem

Temperature fluctuations in the post-anesthesia care unit can result in significant patient morbidity and delays in recovery. Nurses play a central role in monitoring and managing temperature during this critical recovery phase. However, it is unclear whether nurses at Taraba State Specialist Hospital possess adequate knowledge of temperature management or adhere to best practices. Without proper temperature regulation, patients are at increased risk of complications such as infection or prolonged anesthesia effects. Therefore, assessing nurses' knowledge and practices in temperature management is essential for improving patient care in the PACU.

Objectives of the Study

1. To assess the knowledge of nurses regarding temperature management protocols in the post-anesthesia care unit at Taraba State Specialist Hospital.

2. To evaluate the practices of nurses in monitoring and managing patients' temperature in the PACU.

3. To identify factors that influence nurses’ adherence to temperature management protocols in the PACU.

Research Questions

1. What is the level of knowledge among nurses regarding temperature management protocols in the post-anesthesia care unit at Taraba State Specialist Hospital?

2. How do nurses in the PACU monitor and manage patients' body temperature during recovery?

3. What factors influence nurses’ adherence to temperature management protocols in the PACU?

Research Hypotheses

1. There is a significant relationship between nurses' knowledge of temperature management protocols and their practice in the PACU.

2. Nurses with more years of experience in post-anesthesia care are more likely to adhere to temperature management protocols than those with less experience.

3. Inadequate resources significantly hinder nurses' ability to effectively manage patients' temperature in the PACU.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

This study will focus on nurses working in the post-anesthesia care unit at Taraba State Specialist Hospital. It will assess their knowledge, practices, and the factors influencing their adherence to temperature management protocols. Limitations include the potential for response bias, as nurses may overstate their adherence to protocols, and the findings may not be applicable to other hospitals due to differences in practices and resources.

Definitions of Terms

• Post-anesthesia care unit (PACU): A recovery area where patients are monitored following anesthesia to ensure stable vital signs and recovery from surgical procedures.

• Temperature management: The practice of monitoring and regulating patients’ body temperature during the post-anesthesia recovery phase to prevent complications such as hypothermia or hyperthermia.

• Hypothermia: A condition where the body temperature drops below normal levels, which can be caused by anesthesia and cold exposure.

• Nurses: Healthcare professionals responsible for monitoring and caring for patients in the post-anesthesia care unit.

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