The Impact of Nurses' Knowledge of Geriatric Depression on Patient Care at Taraba State Specialist Hospital
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Background of the Study
Geriatric depression is a prevalent mental health condition among the elderly, often characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest, affecting approximately 7-10% of older adults (Okafor et al., 2023). This condition not only affects the quality of life of elderly individuals but also exacerbates physical health issues, leading to a decrease in functional abilities, worsening of chronic conditions, and increased mortality (Eze et al., 2024). Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, are in a unique position to identify and manage signs of depression in geriatric patients, especially in a hospital setting. However, the level of awareness and knowledge among nurses about geriatric depression and its impact on patient care is variable, particularly in rural and underserved regions like Taraba State (Udo et al., 2024). The study at Taraba State Specialist Hospital seeks to examine nurses' understanding of geriatric depression, the impact of this knowledge on patient care, and identify gaps in the implementation of best practices for managing geriatric depression.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the high prevalence of depression among elderly patients, geriatric depression remains under-recognized and under-treated in many healthcare settings, particularly in developing countries (Ibrahim et al., 2023). Nurses in hospital settings, especially those at Taraba State Specialist Hospital, may not be sufficiently trained or aware of the specific needs of elderly patients with depression, leading to suboptimal care. Inadequate knowledge of geriatric depression can result in misdiagnosis, delayed treatment, and poor patient outcomes (Udo et al., 2024). This study aims to explore the extent of nurses’ knowledge of geriatric depression and its impact on patient care in order to identify strategies for improving nursing practices and ultimately enhancing the quality of care for elderly patients in this hospital.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess the level of nurses' knowledge of geriatric depression at Taraba State Specialist Hospital.
- To examine the impact of nurses' knowledge of geriatric depression on the care provided to elderly patients.
- To identify the factors influencing the management of geriatric depression by nurses at Taraba State Specialist Hospital.
Research Questions
- What is the level of nurses' knowledge of geriatric depression at Taraba State Specialist Hospital?
- How does nurses' knowledge of geriatric depression affect the quality of care provided to elderly patients?
- What are the factors that influence the management of geriatric depression by nurses at Taraba State Specialist Hospital?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses at Taraba State Specialist Hospital have insufficient knowledge of geriatric depression.
- Nurses' knowledge of geriatric depression has a significant positive impact on the quality of care for elderly patients.
- Organizational and training factors significantly influence the management of geriatric depression by nurses at Taraba State Specialist Hospital.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on nurses working at Taraba State Specialist Hospital and their knowledge of geriatric depression in elderly patients. A limitation is the reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce bias. Additionally, the findings may not be applicable to hospitals in urban settings due to differences in training, resources, and patient demographics.
Definitions of Terms
- Geriatric Depression: A mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, despair, and lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities, affecting older adults.
- Nurses' Knowledge: The understanding that nurses possess regarding the symptoms, diagnosis, and management of geriatric depression.
- Patient Care: The actions and interventions taken by healthcare professionals to maintain or improve the health and well-being of patients, including psychological and emotional support.
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