Background of the Study
Sexual assault is a serious public health issue that has wide-ranging psychological, physical, and social consequences for victims. In healthcare settings, nurses play a critical role in providing immediate care for survivors of sexual assault, ensuring both the medical and psychological well-being of the patients. Effective management of sexual assault cases in hospitals requires a multifaceted approach that includes proper documentation, appropriate medical interventions, psychological support, and coordination with law enforcement (Eze et al., 2024). In Nigeria, the response to sexual assault cases varies widely across healthcare institutions, with nurses often being the first to encounter and assess victims (Adebayo et al., 2023).
At Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Jalingo, nurses are frequently involved in the care of sexual assault survivors, but the level of preparedness for such sensitive cases remains uncertain. Nurses’ preparedness for managing sexual assault cases is largely dependent on their training, knowledge, and access to support systems. Specialized training programs in forensic nursing, trauma care, and legal protocols can significantly enhance nurses' ability to respond appropriately and ensure that survivors receive adequate care (Ajibola et al., 2023). However, many healthcare workers in Nigerian hospitals lack the required expertise or resources to manage sexual assault cases effectively, resulting in inadequate medical and psychological care for victims (Oluwadare et al., 2024).
The ability to handle sexual assault cases requires more than just clinical skills; it also involves sensitivity, empathy, and the ability to navigate the legal aspects of care, which many nurses may not be adequately prepared for (Akinmoladun et al., 2024). This study will evaluate the preparedness of nurses at FMC Jalingo in handling cases of sexual assault, focusing on their knowledge, training, response mechanisms, and access to necessary resources.
Statement of the Problem
Sexual assault survivors often face significant barriers in accessing appropriate care in Nigerian hospitals. At FMC Jalingo, the preparedness of nurses to respond to such cases is a concern, as many nurses may lack sufficient training in forensic nursing, legal aspects of care, and trauma-informed approaches. Inadequate preparedness can lead to suboptimal care, affecting both the physical and psychological well-being of victims. This study seeks to evaluate nurses’ preparedness to manage sexual assault cases at FMC Jalingo to identify gaps in knowledge, training, and resources that hinder effective care for survivors.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses employed at Federal Medical Centre, Jalingo, who are involved in handling sexual assault cases. It will assess their level of preparedness, the training they have received, and the challenges they face in providing care. The study will not include other healthcare professionals such as doctors or social workers, although they may also play a role in managing sexual assault cases.
Limitations of the study include potential biases in self-reported data, as nurses may underreport challenges or shortcomings in their preparedness. Additionally, the study's cross-sectional design may not capture long-term changes in nurses’ preparedness or the impact of training programs over time.
Definitions of Terms
Chapter One: Introduction
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