Background of the Study
Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, is a significant health concern in tropical regions, including Nigeria. Characterized by sudden onset of fever, severe headache, retro-orbital pain, muscle and joint pain, and rash, dengue fever can progress to severe forms, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome, which can be fatal without timely medical intervention (Ogunjimi et al., 2024). In areas like Nasarawa State, where tropical climate conditions favor the proliferation of the Aedes aegypti mosquito, the incidence of dengue fever has been rising, contributing to a growing public health burden. Nurses play a vital role in the management of dengue fever, from early diagnosis and symptom management to patient education and providing supportive care (Sulaimon et al., 2023).
At Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital, nurses are among the first responders to suspected cases of dengue fever. Their knowledge of the disease, its management protocols, and prevention strategies is crucial for controlling its spread and minimizing its impact. However, research suggests that knowledge gaps, inadequate training, and lack of resources can hinder effective management and care delivery (Zubair et al., 2023). There is a pressing need to assess the current level of knowledge among nurses regarding dengue fever and their ability to manage it effectively. By exploring the preparedness and practices of nurses at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital, this study aims to provide insights into the strengths and limitations of current nursing practices and identify areas that require improvement to better handle outbreaks of dengue fever in tropical regions.
Statement of the Problem
Dengue fever continues to be a major health issue in tropical regions like Nasarawa State. While nurses are essential in managing dengue cases, their ability to provide optimal care depends on their knowledge of the disease, its clinical management, and prevention methods. The effectiveness of dengue fever management at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital is unclear, as there may be gaps in the nurses’ understanding of the disease and their capacity to implement the appropriate interventions. This study aims to examine the knowledge and management practices of nurses regarding dengue fever and assess their preparedness to handle outbreaks, with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes and reducing the spread of the disease.
Objectives of the Study
To assess the level of knowledge of dengue fever among nurses at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital.
To evaluate the management practices of nurses in treating patients with dengue fever.
To identify challenges faced by nurses in managing dengue fever at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital.
Research Questions
What is the level of knowledge of dengue fever among nurses at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital?
What are the management practices of nurses when treating patients with dengue fever at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital?
What challenges do nurses face in managing dengue fever at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital?
Research Hypotheses
Nurses with higher knowledge of dengue fever are more likely to manage patients more effectively.
There is a significant relationship between the availability of resources and the management practices of nurses in treating dengue fever.
Nurses at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital face significant barriers in managing dengue fever.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will focus on nurses working at Nasarawa State University Teaching Hospital involved in the management of dengue fever patients. It will assess their knowledge, practices, and challenges related to the disease. The study is limited to this specific hospital, and the findings may not be generalizable to other regions or hospitals. A limitation of the study may be the reliance on self-reported data, which may lead to biased responses regarding nurses’ knowledge and practices.
Definitions of Terms
Dengue Fever: A mosquito-borne viral infection that causes fever, joint pain, rash, and can progress to severe forms, including dengue hemorrhagic fever and shock syndrome.
Nurses' Knowledge: The understanding that nurses have regarding the causes, symptoms, management, and prevention of dengue fever.
Management of Dengue Fever: The set of interventions, including diagnostic measures, fluid management, and supportive care, used to treat patients diagnosed with dengue fever.
Tropical Region: A geographical area characterized by a hot and humid climate, conducive to the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever.
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study...