Background of the Study
Post-surgical wound infections are a major complication in surgical patients and are associated with increased morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs (Musa et al., 2024). Infections that develop at surgical sites are particularly concerning, as they can complicate recovery, lead to further surgeries, and, in severe cases, result in life-threatening conditions. The management of these infections is crucial to improving patient outcomes and preventing the spread of pathogens within healthcare settings. Nurses, as primary caregivers in post-surgical care, play an essential role in the prevention, early detection, and management of surgical wound infections (Adeyemo & Lawal, 2023).
At Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, nurses are tasked with providing care to patients who have undergone various surgical procedures. However, managing post-surgical wound infections requires specialized knowledge and preparedness, including familiarity with proper wound care, aseptic techniques, and infection control practices. Research has shown that inadequate nurse training and lack of proper resources can hinder the ability to effectively manage wound infections (Abubakar et al., 2024). Additionally, nurse preparedness involves the ability to recognize signs of infection, make timely interventions, and provide appropriate patient education regarding wound care. Despite the critical role nurses play, it is unclear whether the nurses at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, possess the necessary preparedness to manage post-surgical wound infections effectively. This study seeks to examine the level of preparedness of nurses in managing these infections, with a focus on their knowledge, skills, and access to resources.
Statement of the Problem
Post-surgical wound infections remain a significant challenge in many healthcare institutions, including Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe. Nurses, as the primary caregivers in post-operative care, are at the forefront of managing and preventing these infections. However, there is limited research regarding the preparedness of nurses in Gombe to handle this critical aspect of care. Inadequate training, a lack of necessary resources, and the absence of updated protocols could potentially lead to poor management of post-surgical wound infections. If nurses are not adequately prepared to detect, treat, and prevent infections, patient recovery may be compromised, leading to prolonged hospitalization and higher healthcare costs. This study aims to assess the preparedness of nurses at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, in managing post-surgical wound infections and identify gaps in their knowledge and practices.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of preparedness of nurses at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, for managing post-surgical wound infections.
To examine the knowledge and skills of nurses regarding post-surgical wound care and infection management.
To identify barriers and challenges faced by nurses in managing post-surgical wound infections at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe.
Research Questions
What is the level of preparedness of nurses at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, for managing post-surgical wound infections?
What is the level of knowledge and skill of nurses in post-surgical wound care and infection management at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe?
What are the barriers faced by nurses in managing post-surgical wound infections at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe?
Research Hypotheses
Nurses who have received specific training in wound care are more prepared to manage post-surgical wound infections than those who have not.
There is a significant relationship between nurses’ knowledge of post-surgical wound care and their ability to manage infections effectively.
Nurses at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, face significant barriers in managing post-surgical wound infections.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on nurses working at Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe, who are involved in the care of post-surgical patients. The research will examine their preparedness, knowledge, and skills regarding the management of post-surgical wound infections. The study is limited to this hospital, and findings may not be generalizable to other healthcare facilities. A limitation of this study is the potential for self-reporting bias, as nurses may overstate their preparedness and knowledge. Additionally, the study will rely on cross-sectional data, which may not capture long-term changes in nurse training and practices.
Definitions of Terms
Post-surgical Wound Infection: Infection that develops at the site of a surgical incision or wound after a surgical procedure.
Nurses' Preparedness: The readiness of nurses to manage post-surgical wound infections, including their knowledge, skills, and access to necessary resources.
Wound Care: The practice of cleaning, dressing, and monitoring surgical wounds to prevent infection and promote healing.
Infection Management: The processes and interventions used to treat and control infections in post-surgical patients.
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